What does a Telecommunications Director do?

A telecommunications director generally is responsible for the planning and design of an organization’s telecommunication system which is comprised of voice services, data networks, and communication systems. The director usually takes into account present, as well as projected, volume of an organization’s communications. She then considers the efficiency and sufficiency of the present telecommunications system and makes recommendations for change.

Duties of a telecommunications director usually include obtaining information on new equipment and system developments, acquisition and installation costs, adaptability to the existing system, and expected resulting improvement to the system. By researching these factors, a telecommunications director is able to make knowledgeable recommendations if replacement or acquisition of equipment is needed. In the event of any alterations to the system, the telecommunications director also supervises the installation and maintenance of equipment and usually manages any operational procedures resulting from system changes.

A director typically is responsible for defining and developing a methodology that ensures compatibility of the organization’s software and hardware products. It is also her duty to coordinate with vendors of products and providers of services related to telecommunications. The telecommunications director usually is also responsible for allocating resources to each office or department. She directs the preparation of equipment specifications and floor plans for installation of equipment.

The telecommunications director typically implements company policies and develops operational procedures relating to telecommunications. She manages the work of those under her and reports to senior management. The director also facilitates communication between technical staff and other personnel to determine the technological needs of individual departments and workers.

Generally, a college degree in computer science, information systems, or an equivalent area is required. Familiarity with the field’s concepts, practices, and procedures is a must, along with an understanding of merging technologies related to telecommunications. Extensive working technical knowledge in the telecommunications field is usually a requirement, although the number of years required depends on the organization.

Experience in management is often required along with the ability to work well with people of varying levels of technical skills. Good oral and written communication abilities are also necessary in order to effectively express complex technical concepts. The candidate may also need to be capable of budget planning.

Forty-hour weeks are normal, although overtime work is sometimes required, especially during emergencies. During such events, the telecommunications director usually needs to be available on short notice. The working environment is usually in a comfortable office.