Telecommunications Trades Workers are professionals who specialize in the installation, maintenance, and repair of data transmission equipment, aerial lines, conduits, cables, radio antennae, and various telecommunications equipment and appliances. These workers play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth functioning of communication networks in Australia.

Indicative Skill Level:

Most occupations within the Telecommunications Trades Workers unit group require a certain level of skill, which is typically acquired through the qualifications and experience outlined below:

In Australia:

• AQF Certificate III, including a minimum of two years of on-the-job training, or AQF Certificate IV (ANZSCO Skill Level 3)

In New Zealand:

• NZQF Level 4 qualification (ANZSCO Skill Level 3)

It is important to note that at least three years of relevant experience and/or relevant vendor certification may be considered as substitutes for the formal qualifications mentioned above. In certain cases, relevant experience may even be required in addition to the formal qualification.

Tasks Include:

• Examining drawings, specifications, and work areas to determine the positioning and connections for the equipment to be installed.
• Locating faults in telecommunications equipment using instruments such as ohmmeters, voltmeters, ammeters, and transmission measuring equipment.
• Attaching wires and cables to appliances.
• Adjusting, replacing, and repairing faulty items, as well as testing equipment using electronic instruments.
• Installing cabling for telephone, radio, pay TV, and computer transmission.
• Joining cables and sealing sheaths with lead and thermoplastic.
• Erecting, testing, and maintaining aerial and underground wires and cables, as well as radio and mobile phone antennae.
• Installing telecommunications equipment and appliances such as telephones, switchboards, and data transmission equipment.

Occupations:

• 342411 Cabler (Data and Telecommunications)
• 342412 Telecommunications Cable Jointer
• 342413 Telecommunications Linesworker / Telecommunications Line Mechanic
• 342414 Telecommunications Technician

342411 Cabler (Data and Telecommunications)

A Cabler specializing in Data and Telecommunications is responsible for the installation of internal telecommunications and data cabling, equipment, and peripherals. This includes computer networks, telephony, cable television, and monitored security and fire alarms.

Skill Level: 3

342412 Telecommunications Cable Jointer

A Telecommunications Cable Jointer is involved in the jointing, termination, and repair of copper and fiber optic telecommunications cables. These cables are typically installed in underground pipes, trenches, and overhead systems. Specializations within this occupation include Fiber Optic Cable Splicer and Fiber Optics Jointer.

Skill Level: 3

342413 Telecommunications Linesworker / Telecommunications Line Mechanic

A Telecommunications Linesworker or Line Mechanic focuses on the installation, maintenance, and repair of external telecommunication equipment. This includes aerial lines, conduits, underground cables, radio and mobile phone antennae, and limited items of terminal equipment. A specialization within this occupation is Operator Bearer Systems (Army).

Skill Level: 3

342414 Telecommunications Technician

Also known as Communications Technicians, Telecommunications Technicians are responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of various telecommunications equipment and appliances. This includes telephones, mobile telephones, switchboards, and data transmission equipment. Their work covers a wide range of settings, including homes, businesses, telephone exchanges, and other network sites. A specialization within this occupation is Technician Telecommunication Systems (Army).

Skill Level: 3