Communications engineers are responsible for the research, design, development and production of communications equipment and systems.
Communications engineers work within a number of industries, including:
- internet and computing technologies
- networking and telecommunications
- radio.
Some engineers concentrate on applying technical knowledge, while others focus on managerial activities.
Employers of Communications Engineers
Most communications engineers work for telecommunications companies and manufacturers and installers of communication devices and systems. General employers include:
- equipment manufacturers and installers of communication devices/systems
- technical services companies
- large government departments
- local authorities.
Duties
- managing, monitoring the performance of and working as part of a team of communication engineers and planners
- agreeing project budgets, timescales and specifications with clients and managers
- undertaking site surveys
- producing, testing and implementing designs
- creating test procedures
- producing disaster management plans
- ensuring that objectives and deadlines are met
- attending conferences and briefings on new products and networks
- writing reports and documentation
- making presentations
- managing resources
- liaising with suppliers, customers, directors and other teams of staff
- undertaking relevant research
- analyzing and interpreting data
- providing technical support
- organizing and attending meetings.
Qualifications
Employers typically look for graduates with a degree in engineering or in a physical science, particularly:
- computer science
- electronic and communication engineering
- electronic engineering
- information technology
- mathematics
- physics
- telecommunications.
It is not essential to have a postgraduate qualification to become a communications engineer, but it may be useful and could help with future career development. Masters degrees in communication engineering are available.
Skills
- technical ability and knowledge
- a good understanding of networks
- organizational skills
- adaptability and the ability to learn new skills quickly
- good presentation and communication skills
- the ability to work efficiently and effectively with minimal supervision
- the capability to concentrate under pressure in order to meet tight deadlines
- analytical and problem-solving skills
- business/commercial awareness
- the ability to work well within a team
- project and people management skills.