How The Strong Interest Inventory Relates to a Career as a Telecommunications Engineering Specialist
According to the Strong Interest Inventory Assessment, individuals can be classified into one to three theme codes. The individual initially needs to respond to a series of questions that measure their priorities in a variety of areas, from their ideal work environment qualities to how much they appreciate certain topic areas. The Strong Interest Inventory then compares these responses to a database of Strong Interest Inventory Assessments successfully completed by people working in hundreds of different career fields. Finally, the Strong Interest Inventory shows the job seeker specific jobs and professional categories that may be a suitable fit based on the similarity of responses. Telecommunications Engineering Specialists are well-aligned with the Realistic theme category of the Strong Interest Inventory Assessment. This theme category includes individuals who enjoy working with their hands, using tools and technologies to create tangible results, and working with concrete, real-world problems and solutions.
Learn all about a career as a Telecommunications Engineering Specialist, including career stats such as median salary, daily tasks, employment growth, and more!
What Does a Telecommunications Engineering Specialist Do?
A career as a Telecommunications Engineering Specialist revolves around tasks that include designing, installing, and maintaining communication systems, such as data networks, satellite, and telephone systems. They are tasks to design, maintain, and guarantee the effectiveness of these systems and leverage their expertise in electrical engineering, computer science, and mathematics. In their daily work, Telecommunications Engineering Specialists must be comfortable with practical and hands-on tasks, such as installing and configuring equipment with the use of tools and technologies to diagnose and troubleshoot errors and problems.
They are required to work independently as well as collaborate with a team of engineers and technicians to bring their designs to life. Some may specialize in an area of interest, such as designing and installing communication systems, while others may specialize in maintenance and troubleshooting. Additionally, some Telecommunications Engineering Specialists may choose to specialize in a specific type of communication system, such as voice-over IP (VoIP) systems, wireless networks, or satellite systems. They may also focus on a particular industry, such as finance, healthcare, or government, where they can utilize their skills and expertise to meet the industry’s unique needs.
A Telecommunications Engineering Specialist’s Day-to-Day Tasks and Tools
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists use various tools and technologies to perform their job. These can range from hardware equipment, such as servers, switches, and routers, to software systems, such as network management software, testing tools, and simulation software. They also use specialized tools, such as fiber optic testers, signal level meters, and spectrum analyzers, to troubleshoot and maintain communication networks. Additionally, they may use programming languages, such as Python and C++, to write software and automate tasks. Furthermore, they must also have a strong understanding of networking protocols, such as TCP/IP and DNS, to design and implement communication networks.
As stated by The Department of Labor, The Following Work Tasks are Most Often Completed by Telecommunications Engineering Specialists:
- Collaborate with others to determine design specifications or details.
- Coordinate project activities with other personnel or departments.
- Update knowledge about emerging industry or technology trends.
- Implement security measures for computer or information systems.
- Analyze project data to determine specifications or requirements.
- Evaluate new technologies or methods.
- Maintain contingency plans for disaster recovery.
- Research to gain information about products or processes.
- Document operational procedures.
- Identify information technology project resource requirements.
- Install computer hardware.
- Coordinate software or hardware installation.
- Install computer software.
(Retrieved from O’netOnline.org. Telecommunications Engineering. Career Code: 15-1241.01 Detailed Work Activities)
Core Activities for Telecommunications Engineering Specialists:
- Consult with users, administrators, and engineers to identify business and technical requirements for proposed system modifications or technology purchases.
- Implement system renovation projects with technical staff, engineering consultants, installers, and vendors.
- Keep abreast of industry practices and emerging telecommunications technology changes by reviewing current literature, talking with colleagues, participating in educational programs, attending meetings or workshops, or participating in professional organizations or conferences.
- Review and evaluate engineer, manager, and technician requests for system modifications.
- Assess existing facilities’ needs for new or modified telecommunications systems.
- Develop, maintain, or implement telecommunications disaster recovery plans to ensure business continuity.
- Communicate with telecommunications vendors to obtain pricing and technical specifications for available hardware, software, or services.
- Inspect sites, such as device locations and conduit pathways, to determine the physical configuration.
- Document procedures for hardware and software installation and use.
- Install, or coordinate the installation of new or modified hardware, software, or programming modules of telecommunications systems.
- Instruct in the use of voice, video, and data communications systems.
- Implement or perform preventive maintenance, backup, or recovery procedures.
(Retrieved from O’netOnline.org. Telecommunications Engineering. Career Code: 15-1241.01 Tasks- Category-Core)
Experience and Education
To become a Telecommunications Engineering Specialist, individuals typically need a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field. These programs typically cover circuit analysis, telecommunications systems, computer networking, and network security. Some programs may also include hands-on laboratory experiences, where students can work with equipment and technologies commonly used in the industry. In addition to a bachelor’s degree, many employers may also prefer that Telecommunications Engineering Specialists have certifications from organizations such as the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) or the Association of Computing Machinery (ACM).
Salary and Wages
The salary expectations for Telecommunications Engineering Specialists can vary depending on several factors, including location, experience, and education. Telecommunications Engineering Specialists can earn an annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $120,000, with the potential for higher earnings for those with advanced degrees or certifications. Location can also impact salary expectations, with individuals working in major metropolitan areas generally earning higher salaries than those in smaller cities or rural areas. Experience is also a key factor in determining compensation, with those working in the field for several years typically earning higher salaries than those just starting out.
Below are some employment trends for Telecommunications Engineering Specialists:
- Median Salary: $57.94 hourly, $120,520 annually
- Employment: 174,800 employees
- Projected growth (2021-2031): Average (4% to 7%)
- Projected job openings (2021-2031): 11,800
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References
- Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data and 2012-2022 employment projections Onetonline.org