How to Become a Switch Engineer

To become a switch engineer, you will need to develop a resume that reflects your knowledge of the way people are provided with telephone and high speed data services, such as internet connections. A switch engineer specifically deals with electronic switching systems designed to transmit data. You will need to get training in the methods and standards by which the telecommunications industry's hardware is configured to become a switch engineer.

Things You'll Need

• GSM courses
• UMTS courses
• Bachelor's degree in telecommunications

Instructions

1. Enroll at a college or university with a solid telecommunications program. A bachelor's degree in telecommunications engineering is essential if you want to become a switch engineer. A switch engineer specializes in working with multiple telecommunications systems, so you will need an understanding of multiple engineering principles.

2. Take a course that teaches the theory and structure of GSM (Global System for Mobile communications). GSM, which is the technology that allows you to "roam" and use your phone overseas, is the standard for most cellular phones.

3. Find classes that focus on UMTS (Universal Telecommunications Mobile System). This cutting-edge telecommunications technology will be a major part of your work as an engineer specializing in telecommunications switching. Discuss your UMTS training in interviews by explaining to perspective employers that UMTS phones work outside a UMTS system, but that a GMS phone cannot work in a purely UMTS system.

4. List any languages besides English that you speak fluently. Since many switch engineer positions are with large, international companies, multilingual candidates have more job opportunities than those who only speak English.

5. Discuss your personnel management skills on your resume. This tells potential employers that you already have the skills to advance to a management position.

6. Locate an internship or entry-level position where you can gain practical experience with Transaction Language 1 (TL1) command line and Digital Access Carrier Systems (DACS) equipment. You'll want to make sure the position you land gives you plenty of opportunities to troubleshoot translation issues, which will make you a more attractive candidate to prospective employers in the future.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider learning Chinese to expand your opportunities. The Chinese have four mobile communications companies that use UMTS technology.

• If you learn Finnish, you will be marketable to the largest and most advanced telecommunications industry in the world.

• It is absolutely necessary that you brush up on your English skills, especially if English is not your native language. The telecommunications industry in North America primarily uses English.