Jobs and Careers Winter 2022/23 - 143

TELECOMMUNICATIONS
maths, English and science, in grades 9 to
4 (A* to C). A Level 2 Diploma in a related
field, such as IT, telecoms or electrics, or
previous experience working with HFC
or fibre networks, is a bonus when applying
for an apprenticeship, but isn't essential.
How much can I earn? Starting salaries for
graduate or assistant planners are typically
in the range of £18,000 to £25,000. With
experience, in roles such as principal
planner and team leader, salaries can
reach £30,000 to £45,000. Chief planning
officers, heads of departments and directors
can earn salaries of more than £55,000.
TELECOMS ENGINEER
BUSINESS SALES EXECUTIVE
This area is an example of how much
telecoms has changed. Thirty years
ago, every company had just a phone
connection. Now there are a huge variety
of products available to facilitate business
operations, and it's a sales executive's job
to ensure that each company gets the right
ones. You'll need to be familiar with every
package, be able to identify and secure
to improve sales techniques, although a
charming personality certainly helps.
How much can I earn? Starting salaries are
around £15,000, but the sky's the limit if
you are dedicated - top sales managers can
make more than £100,000 a year.
NETWORK PLANNER
You'll take care of the planning and
design of telecoms networks for business
The exchange of information via electronic
means has become crucial in our lives
clients and build lasting relationships with
them. Planning, forecasting and hitting
your targets are crucial aspects of the job.
What qualifications and skills do
I need? Skills are more important
than qualifications, although sales
apprenticeships and marketing HNDs are
available. Communication, presentation
and interpersonal skills are all prized, and
computer literacy, motivation and customer
service expertise will help you succeed.
Employers often supply training on how
customers, bringing in projects on time
and on budget. Liaising with business
customers, you'll visit their premises
and arrange surveys to make sure their
connectivity needs are met, and devise
solutions to help their businesses grow and
run more smoothly. You will also provide
information to internal colleagues to
help them devise better services for your
company's customers.
What qualifications and skills do I need?
Ideally you'll have five GCSEs, including
Engineers are key to any telecoms business,
responsible for installing and maintaining
networks. They build and test equipment,
prepare technical documentation and
deliver services to businesses. You can focus
on fixed-line or wireless technology - or
become an expert in both - and at a higher
level you can specialise in the design and
development of new devices and hardware.
What qualifications and skills do I need?
You will be able to start at a higher level
if you have a degree in engineering or a
related subject, but you certainly don't need
one to be a success. You can apprentice as a
technician or cable installer, and companies
offer lots of on-the-job training so you can
come fresh into this industry. Computer
literacy is essential, and you'll need to
demonstrate initiative and analytical
thinking - and be good with people.
How much can I earn? Around £21,000
at entry level. If you become a chartered
engineer, you can earn at least £40,000
and as much as £70,000.
Find out more
* Chartered Institute for IT
bcs.org
* Federation of Communication
Services
fcs.org.uk
* Spring Technology
spring.com
* Technical Resources
technicalresources.co.uk
jobsandcareersmag.com /// JOBS & CAREERS /// 143
https://www.bcs.org/ https://www.fcs.org.uk/ https://www.spring.com/ https://www.technicalresources.co.uk/ https://www.jobsandcareersmag.com/
Jobs and Careers Winter 2022/23

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