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Telecommunication Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Telecommunications Careers Provide: Competitive Pay and Benefits Job Security and Stability Global Impact and Purpose Constant Innovation and Technology Diverse Career Paths Are you interested in ...

... telecommunication hardware and software and fiber optic and copper cabling. * Experienced in the use of optical fiber fusion splicing equipment and techniques, mechanical splicing and optical ...

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Telecommunication information

See California salary details

$18

$20

$22

How much do telecommunication jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for telecommunication in California is $20.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $21.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Telecommunication vs Network Technician?

AspectTelecommunicationNetwork Technician
Required CredentialsCertifications like CCNA, CompTIA Network+; relevant degreesCertifications like CCNA, CompTIA Network+; relevant degrees
Work EnvironmentTelecom companies, service providers, installation sitesIT departments, data centers, installation and maintenance sites
Industry UsageTelecom industry, service providersIT and networking sectors
Common Search/ComparisonTelecommunication vs Network Technician

Telecommunication professionals focus on designing, installing, and maintaining communication systems like phone lines, internet, and data transmission. Network Technicians primarily handle the setup, troubleshooting, and repair of computer networks. While both roles require similar certifications and often work in overlapping environments, telecommunication roles are more centered on telecom infrastructure, whereas network technicians focus on computer network systems.

What do you do in a telecommunications job?

A telecommunications job involves designing, installing, maintaining, and repairing communication systems such as phone lines, internet networks, and data transmission equipment. Workers often troubleshoot technical issues, ensure system security, and may use tools like network analyzers or software for configuration. Certifications like Cisco or CompTIA can be helpful, and the work environment may include office settings, fieldwork, or data centers.

What are telecommunications jobs?

Telecommunications jobs involve the installation, maintenance, and repair of systems that transmit data, voice, and video over distances. Professionals in this field work with various technologies such as telephone networks, fiber optics, wireless communication, and the internet. Roles can range from network engineers and technicians to customer support specialists and sales representatives. These jobs are essential for ensuring reliable communication services for businesses and individuals. The industry is constantly evolving, requiring workers to stay updated with the latest technologies.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in telecommunication roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in telecommunication often encounter challenges such as rapidly evolving technologies, maintaining network security, and managing high volumes of data traffic. Keeping up with continuous advancements requires ongoing learning and adaptability. Additionally, troubleshooting complex network issues and collaborating with cross-functional teams, such as IT and customer service, are common aspects of the role. Staying current through professional development and fostering strong communication skills can help address these challenges effectively.

What are the careers in telecommunication?

Careers in telecommunication include roles such as network engineers, telecommunications technicians, systems analysts, and fiber optic technicians. These positions often require knowledge of networking, signal transmission, and relevant certifications like Cisco or CompTIA. Professionals in this field work in environments such as data centers, service providers, and corporate IT departments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a telecommunications role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a telecommunications role, you need a strong understanding of networking concepts, telecommunications systems, and typically a degree in information technology, electronics, or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as network analyzers, VoIP systems, and certifications like Cisco CCNA or CompTIA Network+ is often required. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills help professionals address technical issues and collaborate effectively. These skills are essential for ensuring reliable connectivity, efficient troubleshooting, and smooth communication across organizations.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year?

In the telecommunications field, executive roles such as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) or Chief Executive Officer (CEO) can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in large corporations. High-level engineers or specialists with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership responsibilities may also reach this compensation level, often including bonuses and stock options.

What jobs make $3,000 a day?

In the telecommunication field, high-level roles such as senior network architects, telecommunications consultants, or specialized engineers can earn around $3,000 per day, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and working on large-scale projects. These positions often require advanced technical skills, industry certifications, and the ability to manage complex systems or client accounts.
What are the most commonly searched types of Telecommunication jobs in California? The most popular types of Telecommunication jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Telecommunication jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Telecommunication jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Telecommunication jobs? Cities in California with the most Telecommunication job openings:
Infographic showing various Telecommunication job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,423 per year, or $20.9 per hour.
Associate Telecommunication Engineer Journey

Associate Telecommunication Engineer Journey

Sacramento Municipal Utility District

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$173K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago


Sacramento Municipal Utility District rating

9.7

Company rating: 9.7 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Minimum Pay Rate: $131,248.00 

Maximum Pay Rate: $173,888.00 

Civil Service Status: Civil Service 

Apply by Date: 07/22/2026 

Posting Type: Open 

SMUD's Operational-Technology-Network-Engineering (OTNE) department is seeking an Electrical Engineer to work in the Telecommunications Engineering team. The OTNE department specializes in providing high-reliability communication systems and services that are needed to operate the power grid.

Purpose

Provides specialized technical and engineering support in a variety of telecommunication areas including the plan, design, development, installation, operation and maintenance of SMUD's telecommunication infrastructure to ensure telecommunications systems are reliable, accessible, and meet the needs of business units.

Nature and Scope

This classification is comprised of two levels: Level "E" is the entry-level where incumbents are provided formal training and/or certification for progression to the journey-level of the classification. The incumbent is promoted/progressed to the journey level "J" upon successful completion of all training and/or certification requirements for the classification. Incumbents hired at the entry-level are required to successfully progress to the journey-level within 18 to 60 months, depending on the length of the training and/or certification program. If an employee is unsuccessful with progressing to the journey-level they will return to last class held or separate from SMUD.

Duties and Responsibilities
  • Plans, designs, develops and maintains telecommunication networks and systems by offering technical and engineering support; defines functional and system requirements; develops design criteria to meet current arid future needs; supports installation, operation and maintenance of networks and systems; develops testing criteria; provides technical and engineering consultation and solutions.
  • Analyzes the need for new telecommunication systems, upgrades, expansions and modifications by evaluating the effectiveness of the current systems; conducts feasibility studies; determines current and long-range capability by analyzing loadings, performance levels, and responsiveness to operational and transient conditions; evaluates current technologies; conducts cost analysis; defines system requirements; designs modifications; supports installations; develops testing scenarios; conducts post-implementation reviews.
  • Supports SMUD's telecommunication goals and direction while continually enhancing the reliability and productivity of the telecommunication systems and networks.
  • Supports the overall effectiveness of the use of telecommunication networks and systems by its users by offering technical and engineering support and user training on telecommunication systems; provides technical consultation to business units; troubleshoots user obstacles; establishes training needs; conducts training; responds to user need requests; provides emergency support to operating systems.
  • Plans, coordinates, prioritizates and monitors work activities with work-unit employees to meet established task objectives and deadlines by following established policies and precedents; participates as a team member in accomplishing objectives; refers problems to supervision where solutions are not readily achievable.
  • Participates in assigned tasks of a work unit in order to meet defined unit goals and schedules and comply with SMUD schedule, quality, quantity, safety and performance standards.
  • Assists in administering the department budget by participating in planning, monitoring and revising schedules, work plans, expenditures and assignments.
  • Performs related duties as required.
Required Education
  • A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in electrical engineering or a related field.
Required Experience Qualifications
  • Three or more (3+) years of relevant work experience in planning, designing, installing and supporting telecommunication networks and systems.
Knowledge Of

Basic theory and engineering design principles; operational characteristics of a variety of telecommunications systems and specialized technology; basic telecommunications operating procedures and equipment requirements; basic data processing systems and communications; computer programming concepts and techniques; computer and network operating systems; computer based control and data acquisition systems; office procedures, methods, and equipment including computers and applicable software applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, and databases; English usage, spelling, grammar, and punctuation.

Skills To

Perform routine engineering design and testing tasks; basic principles and concepts of data management; learn electrical standards, codes, and ordinances; learn maintenance practices and testing methods; learn electrical safety; learn SMUD policies and procedures; prepare reports on specialized telecommunications subjects; learn to read, understand and develop documents and drawings covering telecommunication systems; maintain good public relations with manufacturers, contractors, and government agencies; operate office equipment including computers and supporting word processing, spreadsheet, and database applications; communicate effectively both orally and in writing internally/externally; establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work internally/externally.

Desirable Qualifications
  • Four or more (4+) years of related experience
  • Knowledge and experience with land mobile radio and voice dispatch systems.
  • Knowledge and experience with physical security, cameras, and access control systems.
  • Knowledge and experience in ordering circuits from service providers (AT&T, Verizon).
  • Knowledge and experience with point-to-point microwave radio data systems.
  • Knowledge and experience with link budgets, radio propagation, and the FCC licensing process.
  • Knowledge and experience with planning, constructing, and managing outside pant (OSP) fiber optic cable systems.
  • Knowledge of electronics, DC power systems, IP-networks (switching, routing, security), SCADA systems, physical security systems, video surveillance systems, operating test equipment, testing and troubleshooting of communication systems.
  • Knowledge of drafting software (AutoCAD), drawing control systems, project management, writing technical specifications, procurement processes, and how to write clear and unambiguous work instructions.
  • Registration as a Professional Electrical Engineer in the State of California is desired.
Physical Requirements
Applicants must be able to perform the essential job functions with or without a reasonable accommodation.

Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) - Who We Are

As the nation's sixth-largest community-owned electric service provider, we're proud of our reputation as one of the best places to work in Sacramento. Our employees tell us in our engagement surveys they're "Happy, satisfied and engaged" which helps create a workplace that best serves our customers. Sacramento was named as the 2nd happiest place to work in America by Forbes Magazine. Lake Tahoe, San Francisco and the world-renowned Napa Valley are within easy driving distance of our locations.

Our Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion

SMUD celebrates diversity, and inspires an inclusive culture based on trust and respect to create belonging and connection among our employees, customers, and communities. By working together, we are powering positive, equitable opportunities for all. We aspire to be a workplace where you can be yourself, achieve your best, and thrive together. 

An example of our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging is when SMUD signed the California Equal Pay Pledge in 2020. This requires equal pay for employees who perform "substantially similar work," when viewed as a composite of skill, effort, and responsibility at the time those employees started within that classification.  As such, initial hiring salary range is not subject to negotiation and salaries will vary over time based on performance.

SMUD is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of race, color, religion, gender (including pregnancy), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, veteran status, or any other applicable legally protected characteristic. All employment decisions are made on the basis of individual qualifications, merit, and business needs and interests.

Why Sacramento, California?

The capitol of California, Sacramento is the state's sixth-largest city, and the 35th largest in the U.S. Local universities include California State University, University of the Pacific's McGeorge School of Law, and the University of California, Davis and several competitive community colleges. The UC Davis Medical Center, a world-renowned research hospital, is one of more than a dozen hospitals and shared services centers in the Sacramento region. Part of the agriculturally-rich Central Valley, Sacramento is at the forefront of the farm-to-fork food movement. Northern California is home to some of the country's top technology companies, including Google and LinkedIn, and a multitude of startups in many industries. Sacramento is home to the NBA Kings, the River Cats (AAA baseball), the Republic FC (soccer) and the San Francisco Giants, NBA Warriors and NFL 49er's aren't far away. Sacramento offers an affluent liberal arts community with Broadway, Mondavi Center, Crocker Museum and summer musical theater to name a few.

On-Site Work

This role will be an on-site role that will require being in person at one of SMUD's campuses daily to complete work tasks. 

CalPERS

SMUD is a CalPERS agency. As a member of the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS), SMUD offers eligible employees access to a defined benefit pension plan along with other valuable retirement and health benefits. This program helps provide financial security both during your career and after retirement. To learn more about CalPERS and the benefits it offers, please visit www.calpers.ca.gov.


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