Careers in Telecommunications Key Terms

Learn the terminology for telecommunications jobs

By Adah Chung

Telecommunications is a broad industry that refers to technology that sends information. Information can be sent by cables, satellite or wirelessly through networks and radio frequencies. Careers in telecommunications cover a wide range within this industry from maintaining and installing telecoms equipment, selling, managing, or designing and analyzing telecoms. Many other industries also rely on information technology and telecommunications to help them run their business efficiently. While job descriptions for telecom careers can vary from company to company, here are some terms and general categories of careers in the telecommunications industry.

Network systems analysts, data communication analysts

Network systems analysts are those who can design, evaluate and implement networks within companies. This job includes monitoring performance of the network and interfacing between hardware and software on the network.
Try: O-net Online provides a job summary of network systems analysts, including skills, abilities, knowledge and roles.

Telecommunications technician

A telecommunications technician is one who installs, repairs or maintains telecommunications equipment. An example of a telecommunications technician would be a cable installer. A cable installer can provide troubleshooting advice and can work on an on-call basis for emergency repairs.
Try: Job profiles provides a description of telecommunications technician.

IT manager

An IT manager is the person responsible for all the aspects of information technology in a company, which includes telecommunications and hardware/equipment needs. Such persons often have high technical knowledge, but temper this with an understanding of business models in order to manage effectively and be a liaison with customers and business.
Try: Marios Alexandrou, a web strategist and project manager, provides a sample job description of an IT manager.

Network administrator

A network administrator is the person who oversees and controls access to a network. The network administrator manages data back-up and security for the network and configures the network to meet business needs.
Try: State University.com provides an overview of network administrator jobs.

Convergence technologies professional (CTP)

A convergence technologies professional is a professional designation in the telecommunications field, based on standards and knowledge in all types of communications technology. After completing a high-stakes exam based on core knowledge about standards and protocols of convergent technologies, the designation of CTP is given.
Try: For more information, visit the website for the Convergence Technologies Professional program.

Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA)

The Telecommunications Industry Association is the association for the regulation and standards set for the telecommunications field. It represents the telecommunications industry in government and global affairs and also provides the Convergence Technologies Professional (CTP) certification and Certified in Convergent Network Technologies (CCNT) program.
Try: Go to TIA for more information about this association.