Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
Telecommunications engineering specialists design, configure, and oversee communications systems that transmit voice, video, and data across wired, wireless, and satellite networks. They work for telecommunications companies, government agencies, and large organizations with complex communication infrastructure needs, ensuring systems are installed correctly and maintained properly.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against telecommunications engineering specialists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves analyzing network requirements, selecting and configuring equipment, creating technical documentation, and monitoring system performance. Specialists conduct site surveys, troubleshoot connection problems, coordinate with installation teams, and test systems before deployment. They may review blueprints, attend project meetings, and provide technical guidance to technicians working in the field.
Who this work suits
Holland code CRI. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to excel in this work if you prefer structured problem-solving and hands-on technical tasks. You're drawn to concrete systems that you can see, test, and measure rather than abstract concepts, and you work methodically through procedures to get things right.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | $126,470 | $168,070 | $200,940 | 4,730 |
| New Jersey | $129,110 | $162,350 | $185,710 | 5,660 |
| Maryland | $124,700 | $159,460 | $176,240 | 5,860 |
| California | $127,610 | $158,870 | $197,100 | 14,870 |
| Massachusetts | $120,020 | $155,060 | $172,800 | 6,270 |
| South Dakota | $116,770 | $153,390 | $199,420 | 420 |
| Delaware | $113,060 | $148,390 | $170,220 | 760 |
| Connecticut | $126,070 | $143,890 | $173,920 | 1,570 |
| Virginia | $109,760 | $141,340 | $174,510 | 9,380 |
| New York | $108,230 | $140,390 | $173,220 | 9,800 |
| Colorado | $123,640 | $139,230 | $168,880 | 16,380 |
| Nevada | $105,770 | $138,060 | $151,570 | 1,010 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Junior Telecommunications Engineer (NCE) — Exemplar Global
- Internet Protocol Engineering Professional (IPEP) — Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers
- Information Technology Specialist - Network Security (ITS-NS) — Pearson
- Information Technology Specialist - Databases (ITS-D) — Pearson
- Information Technology Specialist - Networking (ITS-N) — Pearson
- Digital Video Engineering Professional (DVEP) — Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against telecommunications engineering specialists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 15-1241.01 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.