Telecom Network Technician
A Telecom Network Technician typically deals with switches, routers and physical cables. The technicians are involved in designing, installing and customizing telecommunications hardware and software. They work on structured cabling, network cabling and testing routers and switches. It also helps to have some knowledge about the installation of system software, application software, drivers, hardware, devices, peripherals and network printers.
The technician will configure, examine and resolve any issues related to the operation of LAN hardware/software. It is their responsibility to ensure connectivity and functionality of the peripheral devices, wiring and cabling. The professional has to identify and rectify network and telecommunication system malfunctions. They have to use computer diagnostic tools and software to check the functionality for mainframe and remote access. The professional has to run system backups and troubleshoot desktop computer problems.
It is the responsibility of the Telecom Network Technician to offer customer service and ensure resolution of any problem. The technician has to maintain a database of user problems and resolution. They have to guide and train the users on the operation and capabilities of hardware and application software. The professional has to take care of the software updates and hardware upgrades.
Job Description
The primary duty of the Telecommunications Technician is to evaluate the equipment, software, network security and other areas. The technician has to plan and recommend telecommunication network changes that will enhance productivity. They have to coordinate with the cable installation and take care of the in-house cable installations.
The professionals have to keep track of the managed systems, equipment inventory, and spares. They have to locate the areas of operation that need upgraded equipment. The technician should manage the wired and wireless network infrastructure. They have to perform equipment repairs and software upgrades as needed. Apart from these, the other responsibilities include the following:
Practical Implementation
The Network Technician should actively participate in planning, designing, building, configuring and commissioning telecommunication devices, networks, and systems, such as voice and digital data systems. They must make sure telecommunications systems interconnect with equipment from different manufacturers, service providers, and users.
Troubleshooting and Monitoring
The technician should define appropriate configurations of telecommunications hardware and software, ensuring the desired performance of telecommunications equipment. They need to analyze the requirements of existing telecommunications systems for interference, intelligibility, and clarity.
Evaluate Systems
Technicians usually set up and assess LANs (local area networks) and WANs (wide area networks). They use both hardware, such as routers, hubs and cables, and software, such as network drivers.
Service and Solutions
Network Technicians use technical knowledge to provide assistance and engineering solutions involving different modes of information transfer, such as wireless telephony services, internet, and broadband technologies.
Skill Set Requirements
- Cloud computing skills, such as stack knowledge which includes AWS, OpenStack or Azure, and expertise in cloud architecture that builds on the basics of traditional Web services and API’s.
- Programming knowledge may be required for networking and data centers that may be dependent on specialized software, such as Cisco and VMware.
- A thorough understanding of networks, such as LAN, WAN, WLAN, and MAN is essential to success and growth in this field.
Education Requirements
Telecom Network Technicians must have a bachelor’s degree in electronics, electrical engineering, telecommunications, or other computer-related fields. Having a master’s degree in telecom or information systems is an added advantage. Relevant work experience is necessary, apart from formal education and training.
Certifications
In today’s job market, certification plays a prominent role in deciding the individual’s career growth. The certifications usually offer in-depth knowledge and understand of the subject. They are the best way to keep up in the fast-faced world of technology. So, here are some certifications that a must-have for Telecom Network Technician.
- Cisco certificates (CCNA, CCNP, and CCIE)
- Certified Telecommunications Network Specialist (CTNS)
- Certified IP Telecom Network Specialist (CIPTS)
- Certified Wireless Analyst (CWA)
- Certified Telecommunications Analyst (CTA)
- Juniper Networks Certified Enterprise Routing and Switching Expert (JNCIE-ENT)
- CompTIA Network+
- Wireshark Certified Network Analyst
Salary
The average salary, according to Paysa, ranges from $68,674 to $93,221 per year. The analysis includes base salary, equity, and bonuses. As per the Indeed salary estimate on an average, the Telecom Network Technician salary ranges from approximately $13.88 per hour for Entry Level Technician to $21.40 per hour for Network Technician in the United States.
Career Opportunities
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, this career will experience about a 9 percent growth in employment over the next ten years. The outlook for telecommunication career does not seem to do that great. There is no doubt that many job opportunities will be created as the industry is moving towards wireless operations and more reliable equipment. But on an average the job growth has been expected to grow faster than average rate.
How Field Engineer Can Come in Handy
In the freelance marketplace, Telecom Network Technicians are in great demand. If you are looking for an opportunity to get placed, FieldEngineer.com has some great options for you. Sign up and join other registered freelance Engineers from 180 countries across the globe and get hired by business who are looking for technicians like you.
