How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
- training with a professional body
College
You could do a college course, which would teach you some of the skills needed for the job and might help you to find a trainee position with a telecoms company.
Relevant courses include:
- communications cabling
- electrical and electronic engineering
- competence for IT and telecoms professionals
- T Level in Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering and Manufacturing
- T Level in Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing and Control
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
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Apprenticeship
You could apply to do an apprenticeship with a telecoms company. These include:
- Telecoms Field Operative Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship
- Wireless Communications Rigger Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship
- Network Cable Installer Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
- Radio Network Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
- Cellular Network Field Engineer Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Direct Application
You can apply directly to installation companies if you have experience or qualifications in:
- telecommunications
- electronic or electrical engineering
- electrical equipment servicing
Other Routes
You can do introductory courses in satellite dish and aerial installation through the Confederation of Aerial Industries. These could be useful if you want to get started in the industry.
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Career tips
Employers will expect you to be well organised, good at solving problems and able to manage your time.
Professional and industry bodies
You could join the Institute of Telecommunications Professionals (ITP) for industry news, networking and professional development opportunities.