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* * * This is NOT a job offer * * * The purpose of this occupational guide is to provide you with useful information to help you make career decisions. If you are searching for a job, please go to CalJobs (for jobs in California) OR JOBcentral (for jobs nationwide) |
Profiling:
-- Electrical/Electronics Engineers
Satellite Industry
-- Equipment Installation Analysts
-- Information Systems Analysts
-- Laser Engineers
-- Sales Reps, Telecommunications
-- Software Engineers/Designers
-- Telecommunications Consultants
-- Telecommunications Lawyers
-- Telecommunications Managers
-- Telecommunications Specialists
Why are these jobs Emerging?
They fit the category of:
Existing occupations that require significant skills modification
Highlights
For years people have turned to the telecommunications industry as a source
for new jobs, and while many opportunities still exist, the types of jobs
and necessary skills have changed markedly in the past ten years.
New innovations with fiber optic cable and satellite transmission, as well
as improved data compression, have transformed the telecommunications
industry in the past few years and paved the way for an industry that will
soon bring video, data and voice transmissions simultaneously into the
average American home. As a result, there is an increasing demand for
Systems Analysts, Computer Software Engineers, Electrical/Electronic
Engineers, Telecommunications Coordinators, and Telecommunications
Consultants in the industry.
New occupations and specialties have emerged in the field, among them
Telecommunications Lawyers, Fiber Optic Engineers, and Satellite
Technicians.
Because of the pervasiveness of computer technology, improved products, and
increased efficiency through the use of automated systems, the demand for a
few traditional occupations in the telecommunications industry is slowing,
among them cable installers and repairers, assemblers, general office
workers, and telephone operators.
Cellular phone sales topped 11 million nationally by the end of 1993, having
a significant impact on occupations such as retail salespersons, sales
representatives and industry-related entrepreneurs.
Because of technological advances and deregulation in the industry,
telecommunications has come to mean more than voice transmission -- it now
encompasses video and data transmission as well.
What is Telecommunications?
Telecommunications is the use of technology to extend the distance over
which humans or computers can communicate. The equipment used to do this
has evolved from the smoke signals used by early Native American Indians to
lasers, fiber optic cables, cellular stations, and stationary satellites.
Today there exists millions of miles of voice and data cable, thousands of
cellular transmission stations, and an increasing number of communication
satellites. In contrast to the 1970's when telephone wires conveyed only
voice signals, today's cables and radio waves are crowded with all kinds of
data: intricate blueprints, detailed graphics, and medical imaging to name
a few.
The importance of continually improving communications channels worldwide is
unquestioned by both government and private industry leaders alike, because
fast, high quality voice and data transmissions help ensure a competitive
economy.
Occupational Trends In Telecommunications
Messages and signals today can be transmitted along copper or fiber optic
telephone wire, sent over microwaves using cellular technology, transmitted
through cable television lines, or bounced off satellites in space.
Telecommunications, due to its quickly changing and expanding technologies,
is probably one of the most dynamic industries today. For existing workers
this means they must strive constantly to keep their job skills up to date
and to expand their breadth of knowledge. From managers to electronic
technicians, of paramount importance to existing telecommunications workers
should be an ever-increasing knowledge of computers Ð both hardware and
software.
For years people have turned to the telecommunications industry as a source
for new jobs, and while many opportunities still exist, the types of jobs
available and necessary skills required have changed markedly in the past
ten years.
Due to the ever-increasing convergence of necessary scientific and non-
scientific skills and knowledge in the industry, Telecommunications Managers
and Human Resource Managers report an increasing need for personnel who are
cross-trained in diverse fields. Skills, abilities and knowledge they seek
include some combination of:
Computer programming
Software design
Basic telephony
Laser technology
Fiber optics
Cellular technology
Data compression skills
Sales ability with knowledge of telecommunications terminology
Business knowledge
Interpersonal communication skills
Wireless Communication Systems and Products
The development, production and marketing of cellular phones, satellites,
and digital cellular systems have created jobs for electrical/electronic
engineers, software engineers, electrical/electronic engineering
technicians, microwave technicians, and sales professionals. Some of the
new technologies in this area include:
Digital Cellular - Cellular phone-system capacity is expanding
dramatically due to the move from today's analog cellular system to
digital technology, making it easier for data transmission via cellular
systems.
Personal Communications Networks - Less expensive pocket phones in a
system that uses "micro cell" radio transmission that eventually could
replace wired phones, even in the home.
Satellite Phones - These systems, if successful, would involve placing
low-orbit satellites to connect calls to any point on the globe.
Cellular Digital "Packet" Data - This technology is an enhancement to
the existing analog-based cellular systems, where data can be
significantly compressed or "packaged" and made to "hop" between
temporarily free voice channels.
Products & Services That Depend on Phone/Data Lines
Fax machines, automated funds transfer systems, credit check companies,
library search services, and the major on-line information services all
depend on existing telephone and data lines to operate their products.
On-line Information Services: These data services (such as CompuServe,
America On-Line and Prodigy) as well as Internet depend on traditional
telephone lines, modems, personal computers and software to make their
business work.
Credit Check Systems: Most of us have watched while a salesclerk slides our
major credit card through a credit check device. Within 30 seconds or so,
information about our credit has been requested, the query sent to the
correct bank, and the notice of sufficient funds or credit approval sent
back by the bank.
Electronic Funds Transfer is gaining wide acceptance and experiencing
significant growth. Employees and businesses alike are relying on this
system for processing such regular bills as insurance premiums, mortgages
and loan payments. Reasons for using this service vary from a desire to
save postage, checking and time costs to the desire to eliminate past due
reminders and delinquent accounts.
Voice Call Processing depends on phone lines, data storage and
mini-computers to route, record, distribute, and respond to caller questions
by phone.
ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONICS ENGINEERS, SATELLITE
What They Do:
Satellite Engineers develop, design, test, analyze and build communications
satellites using the principles of electronics, link analysis, modulation
techniques (analog and digital); multiple access (interference effects) and
other satellite communications technologies. Some engineers oversee the
operation and maintenance of these satellites in the workplace, as geo-
stationary/synchronous, earth orbiting and the new low-earth orbiting
satellites. They may supervise a variety of professionals and technicians
such as systems engineers, mechanical and test engineers, manufacturing
engineers, software engineers, field engineers, CAD/CAM drafters, and
electrical/electronic technicians.
Job Skills Needed:
-- Ability to do scientific programming
-- Ability to do engineering programming
-- Knowledge of electrical systems design, COBOL, Fortran and/or UNIX,
robotics principles, digital and analog technologies
-- Computer assisted design (CAD) skills
-- Ability to write technical material
-- Ability to use personal computer and assorted software systems
Training/Requirements:
-- Bachelor of science in Electrical Engineering
-- Masters or doctorate degree often preferred
-- Military security clearance usually required
-- Ongoing training required to keep up with changing technologies
(usually given by manufacturers or in-house)
Employment Outlook in California:
Hourly Wages in California:
Entry Range: $7.00 - $22.00
New to the job - Experienced: $10.00 - $28.75
After 3 Years with Firm: $12.50 - $30.00
EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION ANALYSTS
(State of California government title)
What They Do:
Equipment Installation Analysts install, dismantle and move
telecommunications equipment in central and remote office locations. They
coordinate with private vendors and in-house departments to assure wiring
and equipment installations meet control agency requirements, department
policies and customer needs. They develop site plans and wiring schematics,
test and tag new equipment, organize cable closets, identify cost effective
methods, provide technical assistance to customers, train equipment
installation technicians, and travel to state offices to install equipment.
Job Skills Needed:
-- Knowledge of basic, up-to-date telephony and circuitry, including
digital systems, cellular, and fiber optic technologies
-- Ability to communicate technical information to non-technically
trained users
-- Ability to keep exact inventory of equipment
-- Ability to assess needs of customers and discover cost savings
-- Knowledge of operating software related to telecommunications equipment
-- Ability to communicate user needs to management and vendors
Training/Requirements:
-- Bachelor degree in computer science, electronics, information systems
or related major required
-- Continuous technological training through vendors, professional
development seminars, colleges and workshops to keep skills up-to-date
Employment Outlook in California:
Monthly Wages in California:
Assistant Info. Systems Analyst $2,352 - $3,497
Associate Info. Systems Analyst $3,497 - $4,217
Staff Info. Systems Analyst $3,660 - $4,415
INFORMATION SYSTEMS ANALYSTS
(State of California government title)
What They Do:
Information Systems Analysts perform a variety of analytical activities in
support of electronic information processing systems, such as data
processing systems, microcomputers, multi-function automated office systems,
and telecommunications networks or systems. They are responsible for
systems development, maintenance, and technical support. They often ease
transitions from antiquated environments to integrated systems within a
specified area or building and/or between a central office and off-site
locations. They document all phases of installation, and assist in
preparation of budgets, purchase orders, and service contracts. They act as
the liaison for vendors and in-house automation and data processing
personnel.
Job Skills Needed:
-- Knowledge of mainframe, microcomputer, and minicomputer hardware and
data base software
-- Knowledge of local and wide area networks
-- Knowledge of COBOL and UNIX systems
-- Conflict resolution ability
-- Ability to prepare documentation
-- Ability to communicate equally well with both technically literate and
those with no background
-- Knowledge of physical science, economics, and business management
Training/Requirements:
-- Bachelor degree with minimum of 24 units in management information
systems or computer science. Related experience may be substituted
-- Continuous technological training through vendors, professional
development seminars and workshops to keep skills up to date.
Employment Outlook in California:
Monthly Wages in California:
Assistant Information Systems Analyst: $2,352 - $3,497
Associate Information Systems Analyst: $3,497 - $4,217
Staff Information Systems Analyst: $3,660 - $4,415
INFORMATION SYSTEMS DIRECTORS
What They Do:
Information Systems Directors are responsible for the operation and
integration of a company's computers and telecommunications systems,
including equipment, software, and voice/data networks. They practice line
cost accounting, traffic engineering and routing, and manage network
planning and conversions. They establish system security procedures and
protocol. After careful analysis with staff of program needs and intent,
they make decisions regarding updates, enhancements, retrofitting or
changing out existing information systems while keeping to budget
constraints. They keep up-to-date on current technologies and available
options while projecting future needs to the employer. They apprise
president or CEO and management of the status and needs of the system in
non-technical, clearly understood language.
Job Skills Needed:
-- Knowledge of variety of computer systems software and communications
equipment
-- Knowledge of budget process
-- Ability to hire/assign personnel
-- Ability to manage an activity or department
-- Supervision skills
-- Knowledge of procurement process
Training/Requirements:
-- Master's degree or better in Information Systems, Computer Science
or Business Communications preferred
-- Proof of ongoing education of current technologies in voice/data
arenas
-- Six to eight years experience in the information field
Employment Outlook in California:
Monthly Wages in California:
Small/Medium Companies: $4,300 - $4,700
Large Companies: $6,500 - $8,400
LASER ENGINEERS
What They Do:
Laser Engineers conduct Research, and develop and design lasers and the
instruments that use lasers. In the telecommunications field they Research
and design gas lasers and related equipment needed to send messages via
fiber optic cable transmission. They study the limitations and uses of
lasers, find new applications for them, and oversee the building, testing,
and operation of lasers and their controls, sometimes leading a sizable
staff. They also work with lenses, scanners, prisms, filters, and mirrors.
Laser Engineers are also used in the medical profession, by the military,
and in manufacturing.
Job Skills Needed:
-- Knowledge of physics and electro-optic technology, laser theory,
programming in BASIC, "C", or PASCAL, calculus, and logic analysis
-- Knowledge of digital and analog technologies
-- Computer assisted design (CAD) skills
-- Ability to write technical material, work independently and with
others, to assign tasks and to evaluate others' work
Training/Requirements:
-- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics or other
optics-related majors required
-- Masters or PhD sometimes preferred
-- Ongoing coursework to keep up with changing technologies
-- Military security clearance sometimes required
-- Solid background in materials handling and metallurgy often required
Employment Outlook in California:
As the uses for laser technology expand in the fields of medicine,
manufacturing, robotics, aeronautics and telecommunication, Laser Engineers
will continue to be in demand. New graduates in Engineering and Physics
with concentrations in laser Research will likely find jobs. For general
outlook projections, see the Employment Outlook section for
Electrical/Electronic Engineers in this report.
Hourly Wages in California:
Wages of Laser Engineers vary by geographical location and by the number of
employees they supervise, however their earnings tend to mirror those of
Electrical/Electronic Engineers.
Nationwide Wage Range:
New, no experience: $33,500 - $51,000/yr.
Level 2: $39,200 - $61,200/yr.
Level 3: $43,000 - $67,000/yr.
Level 4: $54,000 - $84,000/yr.
SALES REPRESENTATIVES, TELECOMMUNICATIONS
What They Do:
Sales Representatives in this industry sell communications systems,
equipment and services. Their "soft" products include long distance
service, personal answering services, voice mail, electronic mail, or call
waiting telephone options. "Hard" products may include cellular phones,
satellites, switches, fiber optic cable, fax machines, analog telephones,
and entire telephone systems. These workers use sales methods such as
direct mail or telephone contacts, word-of-mouth leads and "cold" call
sales. They make direct or telephone contact with existing customers to
understand their needs and effectively communicate the benefits of new
products and services to meet those needs. They maintain accurate and
thorough customer records via automated systems.
Job Skills Needed:
-- Ability to sell
-- Knowledge of one or more current telecommunications systems and
ancillary equipment, their functions and benefits
-- Cost estimating
-- Excellent oral presentation abilities
-- Knowledge of contract, bidding and proposal procedures
Training/Requirements:
-- High school diploma required
-- Bachelor degree in Marketing, Telecommunications, or Business a
definite plus
-- Solid background in sales, preferably in electrical or communications
equipment
Employment Outlook in California:
The following figures reflect employment projections for the broad
occupational group Sales Representative, Scientific, which includes
Telecommunications Sales Representatives.
Hourly Wages:
Entry Range: $7.56 - $19.33
New to the job - Experienced: $9.00 - $21.78
After 3 Years with Firm: $12.00 - $36.03
SOFTWARE ENGINEERS/DESIGNERS
What They Do:
Design, develop, test, and debug software products for telecommunications-
related needs, such as computer-assisted engineering programs for schematic
cabling projects, modeling programs for cellular and satellite systems and
programs for telephone options such as voice mail, electronic mail, and call
waiting. They use languages such as "C", FORTRAN, Pascal and Assembly, as
well as programmable relational database applications and operating
systems. They write instructions for technicians, often supervise a
technical staff, provide technical support to customers and often help with
implementation for customized software orders. Many Software Engineers work
on a contract basis.
Job Skills Needed:
-- Knowledge of computer circuitry
-- Ability to do engineering programming
-- Knowledge of electrical systems design
-- Knowledge of digital and analog technologies
-- Computer assisted design (CAD) skills
-- Ability to write technical material
-- Ability to use personal computer and assorted software systems
-- Ability to explain technical material to non-technically trained
individuals
Training/Requirements:
-- Bachelors degree in Computer Engineering or related field required
-- Masters or doctorate degree in Computer Science sometimes preferred
-- Solid background and experience in programming and using relational
database applications
Employment Outlook in California:
Hourly Wages in California:
0-2 Years Experience: $14.64 - $19.27
2-5 Years Experience: $20.10 - $35.63
5-9 Years Experience: $26.06 - $42.75
TELECOMMUNICATIONS ANALYSTS
What They Do:
Telecommunications Analysts are responsible for systems development and
maintenance, technical support for a mainframe, mini computers and
microcomputer hardware/software, and a variety of operating systems. Their
work is both consultative and analytical. They often plan for and
facilitate transitions from antiquated environments to integrated network-
based systems within a specified area or building and/or between a central
office and off-site locations. They document all phases of installation,
and assist in preparation of budgets, purchase orders, and service
contracts. They act as the liaison for vendors and in-house automation and
data processing personnel, and advise top management on decisions regarding
acquisitions of systems or equipment.
Job Skills Needed:
-- Knowledge of mainframe, microcomputer, and minicomputer hardware and
data base software
-- Knowledge of local and wide area networks
-- Knowledge of COBOL and UNIX systems
-- Conflict Resolution skills
-- Ability to prepare documentation
-- Ability to communicate equally well with both technically literate and
those who have no computer background
Training/Requirements:
-- Bachelor degree in computer science, information systems or related
major required
-- Graduate degree helpful
-- Continuous technological training through vendors, professional
development seminars and workshops to keep skills up to date.
Employment Outlook in California:
Hourly Wages in California:
New, No experience: $9.50 - $22.75
Experienced: $11.50 - $29.00
After 3 Years w/ Firm: $15.00 - $38.75
TELECOMMUNICATIONS CONSULTANTS
What They Do:
Telecommunications Consultants design telecommunications networks for
clients using voice/data applications and wireline and/or wireless
technologies. They study client companies and customize systems to fit the
users' needs. Consultants engineer and supervise projects for clients,
design or redesign cabling schemes, as well as plan and schedule
installations of new systems. These workers also must keep to budget.
Job Skills Needed:
-- Broad knowledge of current voice/data networks
-- Strong knowledge of several technologies such as digital, fiber
optic, loop, and computer aided design
-- Knowledge of current Federal Communications Commission and local
utilities regulations
-- Knowledge of business practices
-- Proven knowledge of business and budgets
Training/Requirements:
-- Master's degree in Business Administration or related field
-- 6-10 years of progressively responsible experience and a current
broad based background in telecommunications networks and
technologies
Employment Outlook:
According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, the "employment of
consultants is expected to grow much faster than the average for all
occupations through the year 2005 as industry and government increasingly
rely on outside expertise to improve the performance of their organization."
Since consultants are self-employed, they are not included in the California
Projections of Employment.
Wages: $3,800 - $6,300/mo
TELECOMMUNICATIONS LAWYERS
What They Do:
Telecommunications Lawyers are experts in communications law who assist
companies to understand complex and rapidly changing FCC and California
Public Utilities Commission rules and regulations. They make sure their
clients meet current governmental standards in the industry. Often working
as employees for large telecommunications firms, they may represent their
employer in court when a lawsuit is in progress. Most of their time,
however, is spent giving legal advice regarding areas of compliance,
copyright, contracts, and partnerships. Many of these specialized lawyers
are self-employed and act as consultants for firms in the industry.
Job Skills Needed:
-- Knowledge of FCC and utilities current regulations
-- Knowledge of business and contract laws
-- Logic, argument, and debate skills
-- Ability to understand and explain laws in understandable speech to
managers within the industry
-- Excellent oral and written communications skills
Training/Requirements:
-- Bachelor of Arts or Sciences (4-year) college degree plus law degree
and passage of the California State Bar exam
-- Continuing education essential for current Federal Communications
Commission regulations, computer and business laws
Employment Outlook in California:
Monthly Wages in California:
Level 1: $4,000 - $6,000
Level 2: $4,300 - $6,300
Level 3: $5,500 - $8,400
Level 4: $5,800 - $9,400
TELECOMMUNICATIONS MANAGERS
What They Do:
Telecommunications Managers tailor voice/data networks to a firm's specific
needs and keep the system running smoothly. These workers must keep up-to-
date on the latest technologies to make sure customers have the best
possible telecommunications service, while keeping to budget constraints.
They may work within one firm or, if employed by a telecommunications
company, represent a number of firms and see to their telecommunications
needs. They often supervise the work of one or more telecommunication
technicians, a Help Desk Technician and support staff, assigning work and
tracking progress. They communicate with top executives to listen to the
needs of the firm and work together to create a system that "fits".
Job Skills Needed:
-- Ability to plan, organize and supervise the work of others
-- Knowledge of budget writing
-- Knowledge of current telecommunications equipment, operating
systems, terminology and systems
-- Knowledge of contract, bidding and proposal procedures
-- Must be able to handle intense pressure to keep up with
technological changes
Training/Requirements:
-- At least an undergraduate degree in telecommunications,
business or management, marketing or finance
Employment Outlook in California:
Average Annual Salary (Nationwide): Entry-level: $36,000 - $ 42,000
Mid-level: $42,000 - $ 57,000
Top-level: $60,000 - $110,000
TELECOMMUNICATIONS SPECIALISTS (Federal Government)
What They Do:
Telecommunications Specialists provide day-to-day operational and technical
oversight of assigned telecommunications systems, services and facilities.
They manage 3-5 employees at the higher level, may serve as the Contracting
Officer's technical representative and provide administration duties on
systems and services contracts. They perform a range of telecommunication
technical support functions. Frequent travel is required. Acts as
Telecommunications Manager in his/her absence.
Student Trainees in this series are used in a variety of settings. They
usually work part-time while enrolled in advanced degree college programs.
They troubleshoot systems, analyze and Research industry changes and
innovations, or determine feasibility of emerging technologies.
Job Skills Needed:
-- Ability to read, understand and interpret instructions,
regulations and guidelines
-- Knowledge of integrated voice/data systems
-- Ability to select, gather, analyze data, draw conclusions
and present recommendations
-- Oral and written communication skills
-- Computer knowledge
-- Managing (for upper GS levels)
Training/Requirements:
-- 4-year course of study leading to bachelor degree or, 3 years
experience, 1 year of which was equivalent to at least a GS-4 level
-- 1 year equivalent experience required each to promote to GS-7, 9, 11
and 12 level
Employment Outlook in California:
Wage Range:
$3,600 - $4,451/month
(Federal Wage Levels: GS-7, 9, 11, and 12)
Schools and Programs in the Telecommunications Field
Training in telecommunications technologies is plentiful in California.
People can find a vast array of both degree, vocational, and non-degree
programs available at community colleges, technical institutes, state and
private colleges, and universities.
Students looking through catalogs or talking to career center
representatives will find Telecommunications related coursework in a number
of fields. They should look under the following program majors:
-- Electrical/Electronic Engineering
-- Computer Science
-- Electronics Technology
-- Telecommunications
-- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
-- Communications Electronics
-- Communications Technology
Persons wishing to gain specific knowledge and experience in an emerging
technology such as lasers or satellites should check to make sure these
subjects are included within the program they are considering.
Certificate programs in Telecommunications typically take from nine months
to two years, with associate degrees earned in two years, baccalaureate
degrees in four or five years, and masters or doctoral degrees taking an
additional two or three years.
For more information regarding public and private post-secondary and
vocational training programs related to the telecommunications field write
to:
California Post-Secondary Education Commission
1301 J. Street, Suite 500
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 445-1000
California Council for Private Post-Secondary and
Vocational Education
1027 10th Street, 4th Floor
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 445-3427
Find That Job
Job preparedness should include most of these important "do's":
-- Get a degree or certificate in an accredited training program;
-- Check placement and career centers in schools that give degrees or
certificate programs in:
-- Electronics and Communications Engineering
-- Electrical/Electronic Technology
-- Electrical/Electronic Engineering
-- Electronic Technology
-- Telecommunications
-- Telecommunications Management
-- Join professional associations
-- Apply directly to California manufacturers of:
-- Telephones
-- Modems and facsimile machines
-- Voice/Data switching equipment and systems
-- Fiber optic cable and lasers
-- Earth orbiting and stationary satellites
-- Apply to service-based businesses, such as:
California Telephone Association
1900 Point West Way
Sacramento, CA 95815
(916) 567-6700
Long distance carriers
Cellular phone companies
Local carrier companies
-- Register with the Job Service Program of the California Employment
Development Department
-- See The Job Hunt Survival Kit, California Occupational Guide #600, for
detailed job search tips
Summary
Telecommunications experts agree that in less than five years most computers
(both in homes and at work) will be able to receive such diverse products as
movies, shopping programs, television shows and detailed X-rays, using lines
now dedicated to telephone or cable television. Electrical/Electronics
Engineers and related technicians with additional software and data
compression knowledge are especially in demand in this emerging area.
Moreover, this combination of skills and knowledge also has great potential
in medical, engineering, law enforcement, and other diverse industries.
Technology has transformed the telecommunications industry in the areas of
small satellites, fiber optics and digital cellular. In most industries,
most firms are introducing advanced telecommunications systems to increase
productivity; in the process, jobs are both created (such as Information
Systems Director) and dropped (such as Telephone Operator), as some new
skills become necessary and some traditional skills are made obsolete.
For many years scholars have argued that technological changes improve
employment growth and job quality, while others have maintained these
changes de-skill jobs and increase unemployment. When it comes to
telecommunications, both arguments win -- both processes are occurring
simultaneously.
Source: State of California, Employment Development Department,
Labor Market Information Division, Information Services Group,
(916) 262-2162.
Note: This is NOT a job opening. The purpose of this occupational guide
is to provide you with useful information to help you make career decisions.
If you are searching for a job, go to: