Telecommunications engineers often work in offices, where they can use computers to monitor networks and broadcasting equipment remotely. However, some travel may be required to visit sites throughout the state, particularly when installing new equipment or repairing faults. They typically work regular business hours, although evening and weekend work is often required to meet tight deadlines. Some telecommunications engineers may also be required to be on call in case of emergencies requiring them to locate and repair faults after hours. They usually work as part of a team, often supervising a number of technicians and installers.

Telecommunications engineers work with a variety of communication networks and equipment including, copper-wire networks, fibre-optics, satellites and wireless communication technologies. They often use computers to monitor these systems and to assist in the designing of equipment and the planning of new networks. Special equipment is also used to monitor signal strength with some technologies and to assist in locating faults.