Telecommunications engineer - requirements

As a telecommunications engineer, you’ll use your specialist knowledge to install communication networks and work on satellite, digital and fibre optic equipment. Learn more about a career as a telecommunications engineer, find out what it involves and what you’ll need to study and do to get a role.

Know what you'll need to land a job below.

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What qualifications do you need to be a telecommunications engineer?

A degree is not essential but having one will greatly increase your options and possibly your earning potential. Subjects to consider include:

You’ll usually need GCSE’s including mathematics and English to be accepted onto a college course or apprenticeship scheme.

Please note this is a beta version. We'll continue to improve our suggestions here so that we show you the most relevant subjects.

Do you need a postgraduate qualification to be a telecommunications engineer?

You don’t need a postgraduate qualification to be a telecommunications engineer but having one could definitely boost your skills and subject knowledge.

Examples of taught MSc degrees at postgraduate level include:

  • 5G advanced communications
  • Communications engineering
  • Communications, networks and software
  • Computer science
  • Data communication
  • Data science
  • Mobile communications and smart networking
  • Robotics, autonomous systems and telecommunications
  • Telecommunications management
  • Wireless communications

What skills do you need to be a telecommunications engineer?

As well as technical skills, you’ll need to work well with others and be keen to solve problems no matter how tricky the working environment.

Hard skills usually include:
  • Active directory
  • Broadband
  • Microsoft Azure
  • Microsoft Office 365
  • Windows servers
  • Telecommunications engineering
Soft skills include:
  • Customer service
  • Detail-oriented
  • Problem-solving
  • Self-motivation

Do you need work experience to be a telecommunications engineer?

Work experience will certainly help you stand out and showcase your potential and commitment to a future employer. There is often a strong link between a placement scheme and a job offer. Gaining experience will also be a great way to make professional contacts as well as technical industry-related skills.

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