There’s a growing need for talented fibre engineers. The pace of technology, currently being driven by factors like the expansion of artificial intelligence, the proliferation of new data centres and the move away from copper networks means that we’re sending and receiving more data than ever before. Fibre engineers are critical in ensuring the successful transmission of that data; they’re men and women who design, install, and maintain the fibre optic networks that keep us connected. Being a successful engineer requires skills like problem-solving and critical thinking to deal with a range of challenges on the job.
What Does a fibre engineer do?
As a fibre engineer, you’ll be keeping optical networks running smoothly. Your day-to-day tasks can change depending on what the job needs and where you’re working. Here are some of the key things you’ll do:
• Design – You’ll plan and design fibre optic networks for various applications, including telecommunications, data centres, enterprise and industrial networks.
• Installation – You’ll oversee the installation of cables, making sure everything is safe and up to code. This includes proper cable handling, splicing, and testing
• Maintenance – Regular check-ups and troubleshooting are important to network operation. You’ll inspect the networks to catch any issues and keep track of maintenance activities and how the network is performing.
The growing demand for fibre engineers in the UK and Europe
There’s currently a large demand for skilled fibre engineers and it’s expected to grow as network owners continue to develop their infrastructure. With more people needing high-speed internet and its important economic benefits, there’s a lot of opportunity for people who want to work in the design, implementation and operation of network infrastructure. For instance, in the UK the push for high-speed broadband (Project Gigabit) aims to get all UK homes connected by 2030 – that requires a workforce.
When you are starting out as a fibre engineer in the UK, you can expect to earn between £18,000 and £22,000 a year. This can vary based on location and qualifications. Get some experience and you could be earning upward of £30,000. Get even more experience, focus on a sought-after or highly technical specialism or move into management and you could be earning £60,000+.
In Europe, the demand for fibre engineers is also on the rise, driven by policy targets aimed at expanding fibre networks across the continent. However, many countries still lag behind in their efforts, creating a challenge in finding qualified personnel for fibre rollout, particularly in regions with a strong need for civil infrastructure upgrades, such as Germany. Skill shortages pose dilemmas for installation capacity. To address this gap, the Fibre Broadband Association (FBA) has created the OpTIC Path training curriculum, which provides necessary hands-on training for new fibre technicians, equipping them with the skills needed to complete large-scale civil work projects effectively.
What educational requirements do you need to become a fibre engineer?
The specific qualifications you’ll need can vary based on the type of fibre engineer you want to be. Installation is different to design, which is different to data centre. Here are a couple of good routes to check out:
• Installation engineer – City & Guilds Communications Cabling and Networks (3667)
• Data centre engineer – CNCI qualification from CNet Training
Alongside obtaining your qualifications, it’s essential to gain hands-on experience under the guidance of someone with experience; it will help you develop invaluable practical skills. At the end of the day, there’s no substitute for the quality of your experience. One excellent way to achieve this is through an apprenticeship. This option allows you to gain practical skills relevant to your career while also earning a salary and gaining valuable work experience.
What learning opportunities does Fujikura offer?
We’ve regularly run a free Introduction to Fibre Optics course throughout the year at our office in Chessington. It’s a great chance to start to become familiar with working in fibre optic communications. This day-long course is classroom-based in the morning and includes practical workshops in the afternoon, where you’ll be working with our market-leading fusion splicers and test equipment.
This training course is perfect for anyone thinking about a career as a fibre engineer—whether you’re in management, buying, fibre installation, or testing.
If you’re interested in joining one of our Introduction to Fibre Optics days, contact us on 0202402000 or shoot us an email at training@fujikura.co.uk to find out when the next one is.
Conclusion
Starting a career as a fibre engineer can be rewarding and full of opportunities, especially with the rising need for skilled professionals in the field. You’ll enjoy more flexibility in your work and have the freedom to shape your work life. By obtaining the necessary qualifications and gaining practical experience, you can position yourself for success in this growing sector.
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