Top Entry-Level Telecom Jobs for Computer Science Graduates

Graduating with a Computer Science degree is a huge achievement. Now it’s time to decide where you want to take it. If you’re interested in technology, like solving problems, and want to work in a fast-paced industry, telecoms could be the right fit.

From building networks to keeping data secure, the telecoms sector offers a wide range of roles that suit Computer Science graduates. Whether you want to code, analyse, troubleshoot or build systems from scratch, there’s something here for you.

 What Are the Most Popular Entry-Level Roles?

The telecoms industry has held steady in recent years, with around 179,000 people employed in the UK in 2023. That’s good news if you’re just starting out — it’s a sector with long-term demand and a clear need for fresh talent.

Here are some of the most common entry-level telecoms jobs for Computer Science graduates:

 Network Engineer

Network Engineers keep things running behind the scenes. They’re responsible for setting up and maintaining routers, switches, servers and more. If anything goes wrong, they’re the ones to fix it.

This is a great job if you want to understand how telecom systems work at a deep level. You’ll learn fast, get plenty of hands-on experience, and no two days will look the same.

Skills

• Understanding of protocols like TCP/IP, DNS and VPNs
• Experience with switches, routers and other network devices
• Good problem-solving and troubleshooting ability
• Ability to stay calm under pressure

Certifications

• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
• CompTIA Network+

Telecom Support Engineer

Support Engineers work with customers or internal teams to solve technical problems. You’ll troubleshoot issues, maintain systems and help keep operations running smoothly.

This role suits people who enjoy both tech and communication. You’ll need to be patient, clear, and good at explaining complex ideas simply.

Skills

• Ability to identify and fix telecom system issues
• Strong communication and listening skills
• A good grasp of networking basics
• Empathy and patience when speaking with users

Certifications

• CompTIA Network+
• Any customer service or technical support training can be helpful

 Cybersecurity Analyst

Cybersecurity is a big deal in telecoms. As a Cybersecurity Analyst, your job is to protect systems and networks from attacks, find weak spots, and keep everything secure.

This is a good fit for people who enjoy problem-solving, thinking ahead, and staying up to date with emerging threats.

Skills

• Understanding of firewalls, encryption and basic security principles
• Risk assessment and vulnerability detection
• Scripting experience (Python is useful)
• Strong attention to detail

Certifications

• CompTIA Security+
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

 Software Developer in Telecoms

Software Developers in telecoms build the platforms and tools that keep services running efficiently. You might work on internal tools, mobile apps, or large systems that support entire networks.

It’s a great role for people who like to create, test and improve digital solutions.

Skills

• Proficiency in Python, Java, C++ or similar
• Experience with version control tools like Git
• Attention to detail and strong debugging skills
• Creativity in designing user-friendly solutions

Certifications

• AWS Certified Developer
• Any mobile or app development certification is a plus

 Data Analyst

Telecoms companies collect a lot of data. As a Data Analyst, your job is to turn that information into something useful. You’ll help improve performance, understand customer behaviour and support better business decisions.

This is ideal for people who enjoy working with numbers, spotting patterns, and finding meaning in data.

Skills

• Knowledge of SQL, Excel and tools like pandas
• Experience with visualisation tools like Power BI or Tableau
• Strong critical thinking and interpretation skills
• Clear communication for sharing insights across teams

Certifications

• Tableau Specialist
• Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst

 Cloud Engineer

Many telecom services now run in the cloud. Cloud Engineers help design and manage these systems. You’ll work with platforms like AWS or Azure and focus on building scalable, reliable solutions.

This role is perfect for people interested in cutting-edge tech and future-focused infrastructure.

Skills

• Understanding of AWS, Azure or Google Cloud
• Knowledge of networking and virtualisation
• Creative thinking to build new solutions
• Interest in automation and scaling systems

Certifications

• AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
• Microsoft Azure Fundamentals

 Gaining Real-World Experience

You don’t need to wait until you land your first job to start building experience. Here are a few ways to get ahead:

• Set up your own home lab with routers or open-source tools
• Work on coding projects or build apps to solve small problems
• Contribute to open-source projects on GitHub
• Join internships or take on freelance tech work while studying
• Try out cloud platforms using their free tiers (AWS, Google Cloud, etc.)

The more you do, the more confident you’ll feel going into interviews.

 How a Recruiter Can Help You Break Into the Industry

Starting out in a new sector can be tough, but you don’t have to do it alone. Working with a recruiter who understands the telecoms space can give you a real advantage.

Here’s how a specialist recruiter can support you:

• Help you shape your CV and highlight what employers want to see
• Prepare you for interviews with technical and behavioural coaching
• Connect you with graduate jobs that aren’t advertised publicly
• Offer guidance on certifications and career progression
• Provide support even after you land the job

 Ready to Start Your Telecoms Career?

The telecoms industry is full of opportunities for Computer Science graduates. Whether you want to build networks, secure data, write software or analyse performance, there’s a path for you.

With the right mix of skills, experience and support, you can find a role that matches your interests and gets your career off to a strong start.

 How We Can Help You Take the Next Step

We work closely with graduates like you to find telecom roles that suit your background and goals. From career advice to job matching, we’re here to guide you through every step of the journey — and introduce you to roles you won’t find on a job board.

Get in touch with our team today and take your first step into a career in telecoms.