Becoming an IT contractor in the booming UK telecoms sector

The telecoms industry is one of the most dynamic and essential sectors in today’s digital world, with constant innovation and growth in 5G, IoT, cloud computing, and more.

Connecting with a telco as a techie…

For technology professionals, becoming an IT contractor in UK telecoms offers exciting opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects while enjoying flexibility and independence.

If you’re considering making the shift to IT contracting with a ‘telco,’ here’s my guide to connect you with the steps, required skills, and strategies to succeed, writes Ben Quinn, head of technology recruitment at Leap29.

Eight touchpads to becoming an IT contractor in UK telecoms

1. Understand the telecoms skills market and where your IT role fits in

The telecoms industry is multifaceted, involving various technologies and services such as:

Telecommunications infrastructure (for example fibre optics, satellite.)
Mobile networks (for example 4G/5G, LTE)
Broadband and internet services
IoT devices and connectivity
Cloud and data centre services

Familiarising yourself with these areas will help you identify where your technology role or computer skills fit in.

But be aware of the following core five, because IT contractors in telecoms often work in:

Network engineering,
Cybersecurity,
Software development,
Systems integration, and;
Data analytics.

2. Deepen and develop your telco-friendly tech skillset

To truly stand out as an IT contractor in the telecom industry, you’ll need a combination of technical and ‘soft’ skills that align with the sector's demands.

Right now, sought-after key skills include:

Networking and Telecommunications: Deep knowledge of network infrastructure (LAN, WAN, IP routing), wireless technologies, and protocols like TCP/IP, VoIP, and MPLS, is essential.
Cybersecurity: As telecom companies handle vast amounts of data, expertise in security protocols, encryption, firewalls, and threat detection is highly valued.
Cloud Computing: With telecom companies increasingly adopting cloud services, experience in cloud platforms like AWS, Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud, is crucial.
Programming and Automation: Proficiency in programming languages like Python, Java, or C++ as well as scripting for automation (Ansible, Puppet) can set you apart from the competition.
Data Analytics: Telecom companies rely heavily on data analytics for decision-making. Knowing how to work with large datasets using tools like SQL, Hadoop, or Spark will be advantageous.
Soft Skills: As a contractor, you'll often work independently and need strong communication, project management, and problem-solving abilities to thrive in diverse, fast-paced environments within telecommunications companies (‘telcos’) or departments.

3. Telecoms tech certifications – five to consider getting under your belt

Certifications can significantly boost your credibility and marketability in the telecom industry.

Consider pursuing industry-recognised certifications, such as:

Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) or Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE)
CompTIA Network+ or Security+
AWS Certified Solutions Architect (if cloud-focused)
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) --for cybersecurity
Project Management Professional (PMP) -- if you intend to lead IT projects at telecoms start-ups or tech organisations with a telecoms division.

Having any of these certifications to your name will help you demonstrate expertise and increase your chances of landing high-value tech-related telecoms contracts.

4. Build a professional network

Building a strong professional network is essential for finding contract or freelance opportunities in the telecommunications industry.

Attend industry conferences, webinars, and networking events to connect with telecom companies and professionals.

Leverage LinkedIn to join relevant groups, engage in discussions, and reach out to hiring managers or recruiters.

Additionally, consider joining freelance platforms or agencies specialising in telecom recruitment or contract IT recruitment within UK telecoms, to gain exposure to available projects. This can get you closer to and in touch with telecoms end-hirers -- those who are ultimately in need of your expertise, potentially priming you to secure direct-to-client engagements at a telco in the future.

5. Create an impressive portfolio

When applying for IT contractor roles, your portfolio is your ‘calling card’ in UK telecoms, just as it is in other industries.

A well-curated portfolio showcasing your past projects, technical expertise, and problem-solving capabilities can be a game-changer.

Highlight projects you’ve completed for previous clients or employers, particularly those related to telecom infrastructure, cybersecurity, or network optimisation.

For example, showcasing a project where you helped a telecom provider enhance network performance, or mitigate cybersecurity risks, will be highly relevant to other prospective telecom employers.

6. Register with HMRC, and get insurance for telecoms tech jobs

Once you’re ready to take the leap into the telecoms tech space, it’s important to set up your business entity properly.

Most contractors operate as a sole proprietor, Limited Liability Company (LLC), or an incorporated entity, depending on the tax and legal considerations.

The latter structure, under which you own, manage and operate through your own Limited Company (LTD) is historically the preferred route in the UK, but aside from registering the company with Companies House, you will also need to register with HMRC, as ‘self-employed.’

If you choose to register as an ‘LLC’ or ‘LTD,’ you'll also need to consider business insurance, such as professional liability insurance, to protect yourself from potential claims.

7. Find telecoms contract jobs as a tech worker

There are four key ways to unlocking IT contracts in the telecom industry:

Freelance Platforms: Websites like Upwork, Freelancer, and Toptal offer telecom and IT contracting opportunities.
Staffing Agencies: Consider joining agencies that specialise in telecom or tech staffing. They can connect you with companies seeking contractors for both short-term and long-term projects.
Direct Networking: Reach out to telecom companies directly. Many large telecom organisations, including giants like AT&T, Verizon, and BT, often have IT contracting opportunities available. Having an established network or winning personal referrals can also help secure direct-to-client contracts.
Job Boards: Search for contract roles on industry-specific job boards such as TelecomCareers, Dice, or LinkedIn’s freelance job section. Free-Work UK also offers a number of telecoms contract opportunities.

8. Continue upskilling and staying at the cutting-edge of IT-telecoms

Telecoms is an ever-evolving industry, with new technologies like 5G, edge computing, and AI, emerging rapidly.

To remain competitive as an IT contractor, it’s vital to continuously upskill and stay informed on the latest trends and tools. Consider taking relevant courses, attending workshops, or earning additional certifications to deepen your telecom-tech expertise. Be at the cutting-edge, and do all you can to stay there!

A final need-to-know for tech contracting career success in UK telecoms

Becoming an IT contractor in the telecom industry can be a highly rewarding career path.

With the right mix of skills, industry knowledge, and networking, you can take advantage of the booming telecom sector’s demand for specialised IT services.

My final tips to you if these eight touchpads to becoming an IT contractor in telecoms still haven’t got you engaged!? Focus on developing expertise in key technologies which you know telcos need; however keep to your niche and then stay adaptable, while building professional connections to find consistent work as part of continually excelling in this demanding but dynamic field.

Becoming an IT contractor in UK telecoms