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Telecom Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Digital Direction is THE thought leader in the telecom management industry. We are looking for the perfect candidate and here are the top reasons to apply: * Team Atmosphere - Sales Support/Operation ...

Our Managed Telecom Solution (MTS) enables us to acquire, provision, and support corporate telecommunications environment. MTS lifecycle capabilities include ordering and provisioning, inventory ...

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Telecom Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$41.2K

$96.1K

$137K

How much do telecom manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for telecom manager in Chicago, IL is $96,073.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,400.00 and $115,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Telecom Managers?

Telecom Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing the installation, maintenance, and operation of telecommunication systems within an organization. They manage teams, coordinate with vendors, and ensure that voice, data, and video communication networks are reliable, secure, and efficient. Telecom Managers also develop policies, plan upgrades, and resolve issues to support business communication needs. Their role requires technical expertise, leadership skills, and the ability to stay current with emerging technologies.

What is the difference between Telecom Manager vs Network Engineer?

AspectTelecom ManagerNetwork Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Telecommunications, IT, or related field; certifications like CCNA, CCNPBachelor's in Computer Science, Networking, or related; certifications like CCNA, CCNP
Work EnvironmentOversees telecom systems, vendor management, project coordinationDesigns, implements, and maintains network infrastructure
Industry UsageTelecommunications companies, large enterprises with telecom needsIT departments, telecom providers, large organizations

While both roles require networking knowledge and certifications like CCNA, the Telecom Manager focuses on managing telecom services, vendor relations, and project oversight, whereas the Network Engineer concentrates on designing and maintaining network infrastructure. The Telecom Manager typically has a broader managerial scope within telecom operations, while the Network Engineer is more technical and hands-on with network systems.

What is the role of a telecom manager?

A telecom manager oversees the planning, implementation, and maintenance of an organization’s telecommunications systems, including voice, data, and network infrastructure. They coordinate with vendors, ensure system security, and optimize communication processes, often requiring knowledge of networking tools and certifications such as Cisco or CompTIA. Their role involves managing teams, budgets, and ensuring reliable communication services to support business operations.

How does a Telecom Manager typically collaborate with other departments within an organization?

A Telecom Manager works closely with IT, operations, and finance departments to ensure that telecommunications systems meet organizational needs and budget requirements. They often coordinate with IT teams for network integration, troubleshoot issues alongside technical staff, and partner with finance to manage service contracts and control costs. Regular cross-departmental meetings and clear communication are essential to align telecom strategies with broader business objectives. This collaborative approach helps maintain efficient, secure, and cost-effective communication infrastructures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Telecom Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Telecom Manager, you need in-depth knowledge of telecommunications systems, network management, and project coordination, typically supported by a degree in telecommunications, IT, or a related field. Experience with tools like VoIP platforms, network monitoring software, and relevant certifications such as Cisco CCNA or CompTIA Network+ is highly valuable. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for managing teams and coordinating across departments. These skills ensure reliable network performance, efficient operations, and successful delivery of telecom projects in a fast-evolving industry.

What is the highest paying job in telecommunications?

The highest paying roles in telecommunications often include senior executive positions such as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) or Vice President of Engineering, which can offer salaries exceeding $200,000 annually. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced technical skills, and leadership capabilities in managing large networks and strategic planning.

Is telecom a good career?

A career as a Telecom Manager involves overseeing telecommunications systems, managing network infrastructure, and ensuring reliable communication services. It requires technical skills, certifications, and knowledge of industry standards, making it a stable and in-demand profession in the technology sector. Job prospects are generally strong due to ongoing advancements in communication technology and infrastructure development.

Who are the big 4 in telecom?

The big four telecom companies globally are AT&T, Verizon, China Mobile, and Deutsche Telekom. These companies lead the industry in revenue, coverage, and infrastructure, often requiring telecom managers to oversee large-scale networks and compliance with regulatory standards.
What are the most commonly searched types of Telecom jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Telecom jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Telecom Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Telecom Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Telecom Manager jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Telecom Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Telecom Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,073 per year, or $46.2 per hour.
Account Executive

Account Executive

Digital Direction

Chicago, IL

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Our Company:

Digital Direction is THE thought leader in the telecom management industry. We are looking for the perfect candidate and here are the top reasons to apply:

  1. Team Atmosphere – Sales Support/Operation Support/Executive Support
  2. Our Services are Awesome…we have spent 20 years perfecting them
  3. Growing Organization – 24% growth over 3 years (the next 3 years will be much bigger)
  4. Great Group of People – We hire the most experienced A Players in the industry and frankly, we have the most fun
  5. Make More Money – Aggressive commission plan and ability to make well above market earnings for a top sales performer

Our telecom professionals will skillfully manage every aspect of the telecom lifecycle – ordering, contract negotiation, billing, audit/inventory management, invoice consolidation, expense management, procurement, trouble tickets, project management, and more. We have perfected these skills for 18 years and counting so our clients typically enjoy a 95% reduction of IT staff time spent on telecom issues, 25% savings on telecom spend, and a positive ROI within 3 months.

For clients in need of just one or two of our world-class telecom management services, our Telecom as a Service offering is ideal. Clients choose telecom support according to the unique needs of their company. It is always customized around the client and Digital Direction has the leadership and expertise needed.

Offerings Include: • Outsourced Telecom Management • Telecom Project Management • Telecom Auditing • Telecom Inventory Creation • Telecom Expense Management • Strategic Sourcing & Procurement • RFP Creation & Contract Negotiation

A team of telecom experts:

In an industry where the term “experts” is overused, we assign the term with the utmost confidence to our team members. Digital Direction’s unique team of highly experienced telecom experts puts us in a class of our own. Each year, our team negotiates millions of dollars of contracts and completes tens of thousands of telecom transactions. Our roster of experts are pros who have worked with hundreds of carriers; many have experience managing Fortune 500 customers. We only hire the very best people. You simply will not find a more dedicated and driven team to manage telecom.

Bottom Line:

If you are a successful sales professional with Telecom experience and want to work with a dynamic team in a fast-growing company with exceptional earnings potential, then Digital Direction is the place for you.

Account Executive

As an Account Executive, you will be responsible for developing sales strategies and attracting new customers to Digital Directions full suite of telecom management services. You will source new sales opportunities and close sales deals to achieve quotas. We have built an amazing team of telecom genius’s that will help you close business and generate revenue by managing and negotiating with clients, generating leads, qualifying prospects, and managing sales of products and services.

Knowledge, Skills or Abilities

  • Applicant MUST HAVE minimum 5 years telecom sales experience
  • Technical Skills: Strong understanding of voice/data/internet applications, communications technology, and network topology. Ethernet, MPLS, SDWAN, VPN, SIP and TDM Voice, Data Center, Cloud Solutions, Managed Services, UCaaS. High-level understanding of the diversity of carriers, their rates, and their geographic representations. Requires an advanced level of experience negotiating carrier contracts. Solid understanding of technical terminology related to telecommunications carrier products & services.
  • Must have an advanced understanding of telecommunications industry and sales cycles.
  • High Level of telecommunications sales experience with a proven record exceeding sales goals at the C-Suite level.
  • Solid network building, negotiation, presentation and closing skills.

Your Education:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in a business-related field