What Does a Telecommunications Technician Do?
A Telecommunications Technician plays a critical role in enabling voice, video, and data communication by installing and maintaining the physical and wireless infrastructure behind telecom networks. These professionals work on-site or in the field to set up wiring systems, test network connections, and troubleshoot signal issues, ensuring reliable and secure communication channels.
Their work spans a variety of environments, including office buildings, data centers, hospitals, and outdoor installations. Technicians read schematics, splice cables, configure equipment like routers and switches, and perform signal testing to meet operational standards. They’re vital to maintaining uptime and connectivity for both businesses and service providers.
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Telecommunications Technician Core Responsibilities
- Install, test, and maintain telecommunications equipment and cabling
- Set up voice, data, and video communication systems, including VoIP, LAN, and fiber optics
- Diagnose and resolve connectivity issues, degraded signals, or equipment failures
- Splice fiber or copper cables, terminate connectors, and mount telecom hardware
- Interpret blueprints, wiring diagrams, and network layouts
- Maintain accurate records of service calls, installations, and repairs
- Ensure compliance with safety protocols and local building codes
- Coordinate with engineers, IT teams, and service providers to support network rollouts or upgrades
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Proficiency with telecom tools (e.g., OTDRs, TDRs, cable testers, punch-down tools)
- Understanding of TCP/IP networks, VoIP systems, and low-voltage wiring standards
- Ability to read technical diagrams and wiring schematics
- Experience installing and troubleshooting routers, switches, and wireless systems
Soft skills
- Strong problem-solving and diagnostic skills
- Attention to detail and quality workmanship
- Clear communication and customer service mindset
- Ability to work independently or as part of a team in field conditions
Educational requirements
- High school diploma or GED required
- Vocational training, associate degree, or military technical experience preferred
Certifications
CompTIA Network+, BICSI Installer, or FOA CFOT certifications preferred, depending on role
Telecommunications Technician Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with fiber optic systems, coaxial, and CAT5/6 infrastructure
- Familiarity with telecom regulatory standards and safety codes (e.g., NEC, OSHA)
- Background in construction, data centers, or field service work
- Ability to lift heavy equipment and work at heights or in confined spaces
National Average Salary
Telecommunications technician salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Telecommunications Technician is:
$64,785
Sample Telecommunications Technician Job Descriptions
Crafting the perfect job description may be the key to finding an exceptional telecommunications technician. To help you with your recruiting search, our team has put together some examples from past openings.
Example 1: Entry-Level Telecommunications Technician
Position overview
An Entry-Level Telecommunications Technician assists in installing and maintaining communication systems, working under the supervision of more experienced technicians. This role is ideal for candidates beginning a career in telecom or with vocational training in electronics or low-voltage systems. Hands-on learning is a key part of the job.
Responsibilities
- Support the installation of structured cabling, phone systems, and data networks
- Assist with mounting hardware and connecting cables following diagrams or instructions
- Run cable pathways, label wiring, and maintain organized workspaces
- Use basic hand tools to punch down cables or install jacks and outlets
- Perform simple tests on cables and connections under supervision
- Keep inventory of tools, materials, and installation logs
- Follow safety procedures and learn industry best practices on the job
Requirements
Hard skills
- Familiarity with basic hand tools and low-voltage cable types
- Ability to read simple diagrams or blueprints
- Understanding of safe installation practices
- Willingness to learn technical documentation and equipment handling
Soft skills
- Dependable and eager to learn
- Strong communication and listening skills
- Detail-oriented with a willingness to follow instructions
- Physical stamina and ability to work in various environments
Educational requirements
- High school diploma or GED required
- Vocational coursework in electronics or telecommunications preferred
Certifications
Not required; on-the-job training provided
Preferred qualifications
- Internship or hands-on experience with basic telecom systems
- Familiarity with OSHA safety standards
- Interest in pursuing technical certifications (e.g., BICSI, Network+)
Example 2: Mid-Level Telecommunications Technician
Position overview
A Mid-Level Telecommunications Technician independently installs, maintains, and repairs voice, video, and data communication systems in commercial and industrial settings. This technician is responsible for completing assignments with minimal oversight and often serves as a point of contact for clients during projects.
Responsibilities
- Install and configure telecom systems, including VoIP phones, structured cabling, and network hardware
- Perform diagnostics and resolve connectivity or signal issues
- Splice fiber and copper cables, terminate connectors, and conduct signal testing
- Interpret technical diagrams, wiring plans, and building layouts
- Document completed work and update service records in field management systems
- Train and supervise entry-level technicians on routine tasks
- Ensure installations meet local codes and company quality standards
Requirements
Hard skills
- Skilled in cable installation, splicing, and termination techniques
- Proficient with telecom testing tools (e.g., OTDR, cable certifiers)
- Knowledge of TCP/IP, VoIP systems, and wireless networks
- Ability to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues independently
Soft skills
- Professional communication with clients and team members
- Strong organizational and documentation skills
- Time management and prioritization abilities
- Adaptability to different work environments and schedules
Educational requirements
- Associate degree or technical diploma in telecom, networking, or related field preferred
- Equivalent field experience accepted
Certifications
BICSI Installer or CompTIA Network+ certification preferred
Preferred qualifications
- Experience with commercial buildouts or retrofits
- Knowledge of national electrical and telecom codes
- Familiarity with field service ticketing or scheduling tools
Example 3: Senior Telecommunications Technician
Position overview
A Senior Telecommunications Technician leads large-scale telecom projects, manages junior staff, and ensures high-quality installations and maintenance of network infrastructure. This technician is the go-to expert for complex troubleshooting, design interpretation, and client support, playing a vital role in both execution and oversight.
Responsibilities
- Oversee telecom installations and ensure adherence to project specifications and safety codes
- Diagnose and resolve complex signal or connectivity issues across multiple systems
- Mentor and train junior technicians, providing guidance on best practices
- Interface with clients, contractors, and project managers to coordinate schedules and site needs
- Conduct audits of existing systems and recommend upgrades or optimizations
- Ensure compliance with industry regulations and maintain service documentation
- Review blueprints and contribute to technical planning for infrastructure builds
Requirements
Hard skills
- Advanced proficiency in network and telecom system design, installation, and testing
- Experience with fiber optics, copper cabling, and wireless integrations
- Expertise in telecom codes, standards, and safety compliance
- Skilled in using advanced diagnostic and certification tools
Soft skills
- Leadership and mentorship capabilities
- Strong client-facing communication and problem-solving skills
- Strategic thinking and project coordination experience
- Ability to manage competing priorities in dynamic environments
Educational requirements
- Associate or bachelor’s degree in telecommunications, networking, or related field
- Extensive field experience accepted in lieu of formal education
Certifications
Industry-recognized certifications strongly preferred (e.g., BICSI Technician, FOA CFOT, CompTIA Network+)
Preferred qualifications
- Experience leading telecom teams or supervising field projects
- Background in infrastructure planning or network upgrades
- Knowledge of building permit and inspection processes for telecom work