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Telecommunications engineering specialists design voice, video, and data communications systems to keep users connected. They install equipment incorporating copper or fiber optic cabling, complex networks, and switching systems, to transmit phone, cable, and broadband data. Telecommunications engineering specialists’ projects range from installing phone systems, automated teller machines and alarms for a bank, to large scale projects such as overseeing the installation of fiber optic cabling to bring broadband data access to a region. They troubleshoot and resolve problems related to all types of telecom systems, install both hardware and software, and document the systems they maintain. Telecommunication system security looms large in this field; they perform regular system backups to prevent down time or data loss. When disaster strikes a system, from a single business to a large city or region, they help to recover the area’s phone and broadband systems. Keeping up to date on new technology is expected. Telecommunications engineering specialists work in a variety of organizations, including city governments, school districts, healthcare facilities, and utilities. Work schedules often exceed 40 hours a week. Requirements vary depending on the position’s scope, and range from a technical certificate to an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in electronics, computer science, or a related field, along with related work experience.