Opportunities to further your career within the Telecommunications industry

There is now a lot more choice for Telecommunications providers on how they will build their systems, resulting in an expansion of the Telecommunications industry and an increase in the number and types of jobs available to jobseekers.

No matter what career route you want to explore in the Telecommunications industry, there are many opportunities from R&D, Telecommunications Operators, Trainers, Network Architects, RNC Engineers or Cyber Security Engineers, to name a few. There are different routes to market, including working for a vendor, operator, or consultancy. 

With significant technological advances in the Telecommunications industry, 5G innovation, and many companies moving to Cloud networks, the need for highly skilled Telecoms professionals should be a key focus for many businesses.

The Telecommunications industry has a goal to improve communications challenges and the speed and reach over distances. In 2021 and beyond, the Telecommunications industry has an exciting challenge to continue to develop 5G networks for the public, which will provide the most efficient network.

Recent changes in the Telecommunications industry

Changes in the Telecommunications industry are nothing new, Telecommunications is one of the most innovative industries globally. 5G, AI, IoT, BYOD, and the ISDN switch-off are examples of emerging trends.

Over the last 11 years, the Telecoms industry has drastically changed. Changes in consumer behaviour and advancements in technology have played a part in changing the face of this landscape, with Broadband and a need for interconnectivity and value-add. The continued rise in Internet users and long-distance communication has also meant that volume and demand have increased. These advances in the sector have caused a need for technically skilled digital professionals who can work across various networks. 

In 2020, the global Covid pandemic changed the needs of many businesses and consumers. Both companies and consumers have welcomed technological advances, with many people finding technology essential for various use cases. The recent changes have accelerated digital transformation and provided a much more evident need for instant communications across multiple networks, with consumer expectations also front of mind. 

The rollout of 5G networks is now supporting the rise in connected devices, new services and network operations, and a focus on cyber security. Next-generation networks have also opened the doors for some exciting technologies in recent times, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and Over the Top (OTT). There are many opportunities for job seekers in the Telecoms space, and we predict that this will continue. 

Salt’s advice for getting a job in the Telecommunications industry

• Employer Requirements

  Due to the number of changes in the sector, there is a need for technical skills. This is an inspiring space to work in and covers a wide variety of skills. From Engineering and the physical build of a network across mobile, fixed-line, Broadband services, we now even utilise satellite networks to complete network coverage. The opportunities are vast from optimising network efficiencies, Architects, Developers, programmers to develop and improve services, and Security within access networks to stop cybercrime. 

  In addition to technical skills, employers may look for the following skills in candidates: 

  • Diagnostic: For example, quickly troubleshoot network difficulties by pinpointing the root of the problem, which could be hardware, software, or network issues.
  • Personal: For example, to communicate with network users and other information systems professionals. 
  • Project management: For example, guaranteeing that new installations or network upgrades don’t cause any disruptions to regular operations.

   

• CV Requirements

  Due to the vast market, some requirements could include applicants from an engineering degree or technical apprenticeship in Telecoms at a vendor, operator or consultancy. There has also been a rise in Communication Engineers from the Armed Forces entering the sector.

• Interview Preparation

  Make sure that you come well prepared for your interview and have a strong understanding of the business you are applying for, including what they do and the challenges they are facing right now.

• Educational Requirements

  Educational requirements depend on the Telecoms job you are applying for. Still, some of the education requirements that employers look for include:

  • Engineering
  • Communications
  • Electronic
  • Embedded engineering, programming, or a technical apprenticeship

  There are a variety of Telecommunications-related certifications available, each of which is focused on a distinct aspect of the sector. Engineers, Line Installers, Customer Service Specialists, and other professionals in the Telecommunications business, for example, have certification programs.  

  As a result, job seekers interested in a particular field of Telecommunications may be able to identify groups and certification bodies that focus on specific aspects of the sector.