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Entry Level Telecom Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... telecom networks are to keeping society running. The Network Infrastructure group is at the heart ... Participates as individual contributor to team, usually in a support role or entry level ...

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... an entry-level employee assuming they hit their On Target Earnings. Compensation includes ... OLN Inc currently works with the largest e-commerce and the largest telecom company. Follow OLN Inc ...

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... an entry-level employee assuming they hit their On Target Earnings. Compensation includes ... OLN Inc currently works with the largest e-commerce and the largest telecom company. Follow OLN Inc ...

THIS IS AN ENTRY LEVEL POSITION. In this role you will support all phases of utility construction for various types of fiber/telecom projects. Duties will include general labor duties related to ...

Construction Worker/Laborer

San Jose, CA

$20.75 - $26.75/hr

THIS IS AN ENTRY LEVEL POSITION. In this role you will support all phases of utility construction for various types of fiber/telecom projects. Duties will include general labor duties related to ...

Construction Worker/Laborer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$20.75 - $26.75/hr

THIS IS AN ENTRY LEVEL POSITION. In this role you will support all phases of utility construction for various types of fiber/telecom projects. Duties will include general labor duties related to ...

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Entry Level Telecom information

See California salary details

$13

$18

$25

How much do entry level telecom jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level telecom in California is $18.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $20.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is telecom a good career?

Entry level telecom jobs involve installing, maintaining, and repairing communication systems such as fiber optics and wireless networks. These roles often require technical skills, certifications, and the ability to work in various environments, making telecom a stable career option with opportunities for advancement.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level telecom professionals, and how can they be overcome?

Entry-level telecom professionals often face challenges such as learning complex technical systems, adapting to fast-paced technological changes, and effectively communicating with cross-functional teams. To overcome these, it's helpful to seek mentorship from more experienced colleagues, actively participate in training sessions, and stay updated on industry trends. Building strong problem-solving skills and being proactive in asking questions can also help new hires quickly adapt and contribute to their teams.

What is the easiest entry-level tech job?

An entry-level telecom technician role is often considered one of the easiest tech jobs to start, as it typically requires basic technical skills, such as understanding networking fundamentals and using tools like cable testers. These positions often offer on-the-job training and may require certifications like the CompTIA A+ or Cisco CCNA to enhance employability.

How to start a career in telecommunications?

To start a career in telecommunications, gain relevant skills through technical training or an associate degree in fields like electronics or communications. Obtain certifications such as CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA to demonstrate technical competence, and seek entry-level positions to gain hands-on experience with network installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

What are entry level telecom jobs?

Entry level telecom jobs are positions within the telecommunications industry that require minimal prior experience or specialized training. These roles often involve tasks such as installing or maintaining communication equipment, assisting with network setup, or providing customer support for telecom services. They serve as a starting point for individuals looking to build a career in telecommunications, offering on-the-job training and opportunities for advancement. Common job titles include telecom technician, customer service representative, and network support assistant.

What is the difference between Entry Level Telecom vs Telecom Technician?

AspectEntry Level TelecomTelecom Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certificationsHigh school diploma; technical certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentOffice settings, customer sites, remote workFieldwork, installation sites, maintenance locations
Employer & Industry UsageTelecom companies, service providers, network firmsTelecom service providers, installation companies, maintenance firms
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Telecom roles typically involve basic support, customer service, and administrative tasks within the telecommunications industry. Telecom Technicians focus more on installing, repairing, and maintaining telecom equipment in the field. While both roles require some technical knowledge and certifications, Telecom Technicians usually need more hands-on technical skills and field experience. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right entry point based on their skills and career goals.

How to get a job in telecoms?

To get an entry-level telecom job, candidates should develop basic technical skills such as understanding networking, cabling, and telecommunications equipment. Gaining relevant certifications like CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA can improve prospects, and previous experience with customer service or technical support is beneficial. Applying through company career portals, networking within the industry, and demonstrating a willingness to learn are key steps.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Telecom professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Telecom professional, you generally need a basic understanding of telecommunications systems, networking concepts, and a high school diploma or associate degree in a related field. Familiarity with tools such as network analyzers, cabling equipment, and customer management systems is common, and certifications like CompTIA Network+ can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and a willingness to learn help you stand out in this role. These skills are vital for ensuring reliable network performance, efficient troubleshooting, and excellent service to customers.
What are the most commonly searched types of Telecom jobs in California? The most popular types of Telecom jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Telecom jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Telecom job openings:
Equip Maintenance Technician

Equip Maintenance Technician

Nokia

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

$40 - $50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Nokia rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 82 rated telecommunications companies


Job description


Description
In an increasingly connected world, the pandemic has highlighted just how essential telecom networks are to keeping society running. The Network Infrastructure group is at the heart of a revolution to connectivity, pushing the boundaries to deliver more and faster network capacity to people worldwide through our ambition, innovation, and technical expertise
Join Optical Networks division, where innovation meets scale in the AI-driven data center era. With the recent acquisition of Infinera, we've united two industry leaders to create an optical networking powerhouse-combining cutting-edge technology with proven leadership to redefine the future of connectivity.
Your responsibilities
Responsibilities include preventive maintenance and repair of wafer fabrication equipment, including plasma etchers, metal deposition tools, wet processing tools, photoresist coater & developer tracks, and metrology.
Create troubleshooting guides specifically for repeated root cause diseases.
Help create/adjust min/max equipment spare parts for wafer fab as needed.
Routinely review all equipment check sheets to ensure accuracy to meet ISO9000/14001 audit requirements.
Help sustain and improve preventive maintenance work throughout the Fab. Occasionally required to work on different shifts for coverage or training purposes.
Help cover the fab with chemical pouring/changing when the chemical technician is unavailable when/if requested.
Help implement desirable modifications in procedures, methods, and processes within the areas of responsibility. Estimate requirements and take action accordingly.
Help the stockroom clerk with equipment part number information and get quotes as needed.
Helped with daily operations meetings with PowerPoint presentations for the equipment related to tool downs and required preventive maintenance work for the day or the week as needed.
Help to identify significant contributors to mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, vacuum RF, or hydraulic system stability and provide solutions to improve the overall equipment performance.
Publish progress reports as needed.
Must perform job functions at a high level with minimum supervision.
Must be able to lift 50 lbs.
Expected to help create written PM/LOTO/Troubleshooting Guide procedures and mentor/train less experienced maintenance technicians as needed.
Work closely with other equipment maintenance technicians to help improve tool uptime/reliability and reduce overall extended (>24h) unplanned tool downs.
Hands-on operation and maintenance of process tools and following wafer fab protocol procedures.
Familiarity with safety procedures and working with hazardous materials is required (LOTO, high voltage, acids, solvents, PPE, MSDS, etc. History of overnight coverage preferred.
Must be on standby for Pouring/mixing/refilling chemicals to help when production needs it done the most.
Performs other duties as required.
Your skills and experience
Education: Minimum AA Degree or equivalent working experience preferred.
Experience: 5 Years in a manufacturing environment and hands-on experience as a maintenance/chemical technician. (Hands-on experience with Applied Materials P5000 Preferred).
Must be able to wear a respirator.
Forklift training and keeping up-to-date certification as required by safety.
Must be flexible in helping to sustain the Fab on preventive maintenance work, chemical pouring, and following all safety guidelines.
Must be an ERT Member.
Removal of hazardous material as needed.
Work on holidays to help manufacturing as needed.
History of overnight coverage preferred.
Desired skills include understanding statistical process control, Microsoft Office, and reading electrical schematics, blueprints, etc.
Strong Applied Materials P5000 Knowledge
Responsibilities
• Performs routine assignments within standardised procedures and practices with regular supervision to achieve objectives and meet deadlines (EG performs material handling and delivery duties).
• Under general supervision executes advanced process maintenance duties. Instructs others.
• Receives guidance and direction from others and uses own knowledge and existing procedures to solve standard problems (EG collects data from assembly process and suggest improvements).
Qualifications
Impact
Accountable for quality and accuracy of own output. Errors may have limited impact on function/project/customer. Delivers own output according to specific operational targets.
Scope & Contribution
Individual Contributor: Participates as individual contributor to team, usually in a support role or entry level professional. Semi - routine or standard tasks. Decision making limited to standard applications in own work. Managerial/Supervisory:
Innovation
Most work carried out according to procedures. Operates within guidelines for non-standard situations. Requires supervision and coaching from SLM or peers. Gathers relevant information to support problem solving and decision making.
Communication
Obtains and provides information to external or internal parties. Communicates information within the team in an understable way.Sometimes requires ability to influence team members of own job area on policies, practices and proceduresUnderstand facts, practices, policies, etc. to external and internal parties
Knowledge & Experience
No experience required. Basic educational knowledge. Degree or equivalent.
About Us
Advancing connectivity to secure a brighter world.
Nokia is a global leader in connectivity for the AI era. With expertise across fixed, mobile and transport networks, powered by the innovation of Nokia Bell Labs, we're advancing connectivity to secure a brighter world.
Learn more about life at Nokia.
Our recruitment process
We act inclusively and respect the uniqueness of people. Our employment decisions are made regardless of race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law. We are committed to a culture of inclusion built upon our core value of respect.
If you're interested in this role but don't meet every listed requirement, we still encourage you to apply. Unique backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences enrich our teams, and you may be just the right candidate for this or another opportunity.
The length of the recruitment process may vary depending on the specific role's requirements. We strive to ensure a smooth and inclusive experience for all candidates. Discover more about the recruitment process at Nokia.
About the Team
Some of our benefits in US:
  • Corporate Retirement Savings Plan
  • Health and dental benefits
  • Short-term disability, and long-term disability
  • Life insurance, and AD&D - Company paid 2x base pay
  • Optional or Supplemental life and AD&D insurance (Employee/Spouse/Child)
  • Paid time off for holidays and Vacation
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Tuition Assistance Plan
  • Adoption assistance
  • Employee Assistance Program/Work Life Resource Program

The above benefits exclude students.
Disclaimer for US/Canada
Nokia Maintains broad annual base salary ranges for its roles in order to account for variations in knowledge, skills, experience and market conditions, and with consideration to internal peer equity. Check the salary ranges in the job info section for this role.
All North America job posts will post for a minimum of 7 calendar days and up to 180 days or until candidate/s identified.

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