Telecommunications Manager

    Computer Information Technology

    CIP Name: Telecommunications Manager|CIP Code: 52.2101
    SOC Codes: 25-1011, 11-3021

    Apply business skills to design, implement, and manage the voice, video, and data networking systems of organizations.

    $134K
    Median Salary
    +10.45%
    Job Growth
    6mo-9mo
    Training
    31.9K
    Jobs/Year

    What Telecommunications Managers Do

    Apply business skills to design, implement, and manage the voice, video, and data networking systems of organizations.

    Common Tasks

    Business Teachers, Postsecondary

    • 1Prepare and deliver lectures to undergraduate or graduate students on topics such as financial accounting, principles of marketing, and operations management.
    • 2Evaluate and grade students' class work, assignments, and papers.
    • 3Initiate, facilitate, and moderate classroom discussions.
    • 4Prepare course materials, such as syllabi, homework assignments, and handouts.
    • 5Keep abreast of developments in the field by reading current literature, talking with colleagues, and participating in professional organizations and conferences.

    What You'll Learn

    telecommunications concepts and technologiesnetwork operations and managementwireless communications and mobile computingcybersecurityregulation and public policybusiness practices and managementwritten and oral communications

    Types of Telecommunications Managers

    Accounting InstructorAccounting ProfessorAssociate ProfessorBusiness Administration ProfessorBusiness InstructorBusiness ProfessorInstructorManagement ProfessorMarketing ProfessorProfessorApplication Development DirectorComputing Services DirectorData Processing ManagerInformation Systems Director (IS Director)Information Systems Manager (IS Manager)Information Systems Supervisor (IS Supervisor)Information Technology Director (IT Director)Information Technology Manager (IT Manager)MIS Director (Management Information Systems Director)Technical Services Manager

    Work Environment

    Locations

    • • Corporate IT departments
    • • Telecommunications and internet service providers
    • • Data centers and network operations centers (NOCs)
    • • Government agencies
    • • Universities and large school systems

    Schedule

    Most work full time on a set weekday schedule, with occasional evenings or on-call time during outages, upgrades, or major incidents.

    Physical Demands

    Work is primarily desk-based with long periods of sitting and frequent computer use. Physical effort is generally light, though there may be occasional equipment handling or site visits to network rooms or data centers.

    Salary & Job Outlook

    Median $134,235
    $75,459$210,530+
    Entry Level
    10th percentile
    $75,459
    Early Career
    25th percentile
    $98,694
    Median
    50th percentile
    $134,235
    Experienced
    75th percentile
    $178,288
    Top Earners
    90th percentile
    $210,530+

    National Employment: 770,200 jobs

    Top Paying States

    Why Demand May Grow

    Organizations continue expanding cloud services, remote work, and mobile connectivity, increasing the need for leaders who can manage voice, video, and data networks. Rising cybersecurity and compliance requirements also drive demand for managers who can oversee secure, reliable network operations.

    Skills You'll Need

    Network operations and troubleshooting knowledgeCybersecurity and risk management basicsProject management and prioritizationVendor and contract managementBudgeting and cost controlClear written and verbal communicationLeadership, coaching, and delegationAnalytical thinking and decision-making under pressure

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • High earning potential
    • Strong job growth and steady openings
    • Leadership and decision-making responsibilities
    • Work impacts critical business operations
    • Skills transfer across many industries

    Cons

    • High accountability during outages and security incidents
    • Can involve stressful deadlines and vendor negotiations
    • Requires staying current with fast-changing technology
    • May include after-hours work for maintenance windows
    • Often involves managing budgets and organizational politics
    FAQ

    Common Questions About the Telecommunications Manager Trade

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