Top 10 Communication Technician Certifications

Certifications for a communication technician demonstrate to employers that the individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to perform in a particular role. These certifications verify that the technician has received professional training and is up-to-date on industry standards, trends, and technologies. This can give employers confidence that the technician can competently install, maintain, and troubleshoot communications systems. Furthermore, certifications provide evidence of an individual’s commitment to their profession, which can be beneficial when competing for job opportunities or seeking higher wages.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Communication Technicians, and explains how they can help bolster a communication technician's career.

What are Communication Technician Certifications?

Communication technician certification is a type of professional certification that demonstrates proficiency in the installation, maintenance, and repair of communication systems. These certifications are offered by various organizations, such as the Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers (SCTE) and the Electronics Technicians Association International (ETA-I). By obtaining these certifications, technicians can demonstrate their knowledge and skill level in order to advance their career.

The certifications cover topics such as basic electronics, digital signal processing, fiber optics, networking, IP telephony and wireless technologies. The certifications also provide an understanding of standards and regulations associated with the industry.

The most common benefit for obtaining communication technician certification is increased job security. Companies often require technicians to have certain certifications in order to be hired or promoted. Certification may also lead to higher pay since certified technicians are considered more knowledgeable and experienced than non-certified technicians. In addition, many companies offer bonuses or other incentives for employees who obtain certifications in their field.

Finally, having a communication technician certification can help individuals stand out from other job applicants when seeking employment. Employers recognize certifications as a sign that an individual is serious about their career and has taken the time to learn all they can about the field. This can give them a leg up on other applicants who may not have obtained any form of certification or specialized training.

Pro Tip: When considering a communication technician certification, make sure to research the accreditation of the program and ensure that the curriculum is up-to-date with the latest technology and industry standards. Additionally, look for certifications that offer continuing education opportunities to keep your skills fresh and relevant.

Related: What does a Communication Technician do?

Top 10 Communication Technician Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Communication Technicians today.

1. Certified Telecommunications Network Specialist (CTNS)

Certified Telecommunications Network Specialist (CTNS) is a professional certification program developed by the Society of Telecommunications Consultants (STC). It is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of telecommunications networks and their associated technologies. The CTNS certification is intended for individuals who are currently working in the telecommunications industry or those who wish to enter the field.

The CTNS certification program consists of two parts: an online course and an exam. The online course covers topics such as network architecture, protocols, network security, network management, and more. The exam is administered by STC and tests your knowledge of these topics.

It typically takes about 3-4 months to complete the coursework and study for the exam. In order to get the CTNS certification, you must pass the exam with a score of at least 70%.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on where you take the course and how much time you spend studying for it. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$2,000 USD depending on your location and other factors.

2. Certified Wireless Network Professional (CWNP)

Certified Wireless Network Professional (CWNP) is a certification program offered by CWNP, Inc. that provides individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to design, install, configure, troubleshoot and manage wireless networks. The certification is available in three levels: Certified Wireless Network Administrator (CWNA), Certified Wireless Security Professional (CWSP) and Certified Wireless Design Professional (CWDP).

The CWNA certification is the entry-level certification for those just starting out in the wireless networking industry. This certification requires at least 6 months of experience working with Wi-Fi networks and covers topics such as wireless LANs, Wi-Fi security protocols, network architecture and more. To obtain this certification, individuals must pass an exam consisting of multiple choice questions.

The CWSP certification is designed for experienced professionals who have already obtained their CWNA certification or have equivalent experience. This certification focuses on topics such as wireless security protocols, authentication methods, encryption techniques and more. To obtain this certification, individuals must pass an exam consisting of multiple choice questions.

The CWDP certification is the highest level of the three certifications and is designed for professionals who are looking to become experts in designing large-scale enterprise Wi-Fi networks. This certification covers topics such as RF propagation theory, antenna design principles, site surveys and more. To obtain this certification, individuals must pass an exam consisting of multiple choice questions.

In order to obtain any of these certifications from CWNP it typically takes between 3 - 6 months depending on how much time you dedicate to studying for the exams. The cost to take each exam varies depending on which country you are taking them in but typically ranges from $150 - $250 USD per exam.

3. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Voice

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Voice is a certification program designed to help IT professionals develop the skills needed to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot voice technologies such as IP telephony, VoIP, and unified communications. The CCNA Voice certification validates an individual’s knowledge of voice technologies and their ability to deploy basic voice networks.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the CCNA Voice certification process. To get the certification, you must pass two exams: one on Cisco Unified Communications Manager (CUCM), and one on Cisco Unified Communications Manager Express (CUCME). You can take these exams at any authorized testing center or through Pearson VUE.

The cost of the CCNA Voice certification varies depending on where you take the exam. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay around $300 for each exam. Additionally, there are study materials available online that can help you prepare for the exams which may have additional costs associated with them.

4. Avaya Certified Implementation Specialist (ACIS)

Avaya Certified Implementation Specialist (ACIS) is a certification program designed to recognize the skills and knowledge of Avaya professionals who specialize in the installation, configuration, and maintenance of Avaya products. It is an industry-recognized credential that validates an individual’s ability to design, deploy, and manage Avaya solutions.

The ACIS certification requires passing two exams: one on Avaya Aura® Core Components and one on Avaya Aura® Experience Portal. The exams are administered by Pearson VUE and can be taken at any authorized testing center. Each exam costs $150 USD and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete.

In order to become certified, individuals must have a minimum of six months of experience with Avaya products, as well as demonstrate proficiency in all areas covered by the exams. Candidates must also possess a working knowledge of networking protocols such as TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, etc., as well as basic understanding of IP telephony concepts.

The total cost for obtaining the ACIS certification is approximately $300 USD ($150 per exam). Additionally, some training courses may be required in order to prepare for the exams; these courses typically range from $500-$1000 USD depending on their length and content.

5. CompTIA Network+ Certification

CompTIA Network+ is an industry-leading certification that validates a person’s knowledge of networking technologies, skills, and best practices. It is designed for IT professionals who have at least nine months of experience in network support or administration. With CompTIA Network+, individuals can demonstrate their ability to design, configure, manage, and troubleshoot wired and wireless networks.

It typically takes around three months to prepare for the exam and pass it. The exam consists of 90 multiple choice questions which must be completed in 90 minutes. To get the CompTIA Network+ certification, you must pass the exam with a score of 720 or higher on a scale from 100-900.

The cost of taking the exam varies depending on your location but generally ranges from $300-$400 USD.

6. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Communication

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Communication is a certification program designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their ability to design, deploy, and manage communications solutions that include Microsoft Skype for Business, Exchange Server, Office 365, and Microsoft Lync. The MCSE: Communication certification validates the skills necessary to implement, manage and troubleshoot a complete Unified Communications (UC) solution in an enterprise environment.

How long does it take to get it?

The MCSE: Communication certification requires passing three exams. Depending on your prior experience and knowledge base, it can take anywhere from 3-6 months of study and preparation to pass all three exams.

How to get it?

To obtain the MCSE: Communication certification you must first pass three exams: 70-333 Deploying Enterprise Voice with Skype for Business 2015; 70-334 Core Solutions of Microsoft Skype for Business 2015; and 70-345 Designing and Deploying Microsoft Exchange Server 2016. You can purchase exam vouchers through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers.

How much does it cost?

The cost of the three required exams varies depending on where you purchase them from. Typically each exam costs around $165 USD per attempt. So if you need to retake any of the exams, the total cost may be higher than the initial fee.

7. Juniper Networks Certified Internet Expert – Voice (JNCIE-V)

Juniper Networks Certified Internet Expert – Voice (JNCIE-V) is a certification that validates an individual’s ability to design, deploy, configure, and troubleshoot Juniper Networks voice solutions. This certification requires a comprehensive knowledge of the Juniper Networks routing and switching platforms as well as voice technologies such as Session Initiation Protocol (SIP), H.323, Voice over IP (VoIP), and Quality of Service (QoS).

The JNCIE-V certification is an intermediate-level certification that can take anywhere from two to four weeks to complete depending on the individual's experience level. To get the JNCIE-V certification, individuals must first pass a written exam (JN0-343) and then a practical lab exam. The cost of this certification varies depending on the country or region where it is taken; however, the approximate cost for both exams is around $1,000 USD.

8. Alcatel-Lucent Triple Play Services Expert (3PSE)

Alcatel-Lucent Triple Play Services Expert (3PSE) is a comprehensive certification program designed to provide professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to deploy, manage, and troubleshoot triple play services. It is targeted at network engineers and technicians who are responsible for the delivery of voice, video, and data services over an IP network.

The 3PSE certification consists of two parts: the Theory Exam and the Hands-on Lab Exam. The Theory Exam covers topics such as IP networks, VoIP protocols, video streaming technologies, broadband access technologies, IPTV standards, and more. The Hands-on Lab Exam requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to configure and troubleshoot Alcatel-Lucent triple play services in a simulated environment.

The 3PSE certification can be obtained by attending an authorized training course or by passing both the Theory Exam and Hands-on Lab Exam independently. The training course typically takes three days to complete while the exams can be completed in one day each.

The cost of obtaining the 3PSE certification varies depending on whether you attend a training course or take the exams independently. If you attend a training course, you will need to pay for tuition as well as any applicable exam fees. If you choose to take the exams independently, you will need to pay for both exam fees separately.

9. Nortel Networks Certified Support Specialist – VoIP Succession BCM 3.0

Nortel Networks Certified Support Specialist – VoIP Succession BCM 3.0 is a certification program offered by Nortel Networks to validate the skills and knowledge of IT professionals who support the company’s VoIP products. The certification is designed to help ensure that customers receive the highest quality technical support from qualified professionals.

To obtain this certification, candidates must pass an exam which covers topics such as installation, configuration, troubleshooting, and maintenance of Nortel Networks VoIP products. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

The cost of the exam varies depending on where it is taken; however, it typically ranges from $150 - $200 USD for the online version or $300 - $400 USD for the proctored version. Candidates can register for the exam through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers.

Once a candidate has passed the exam, they will be awarded a certificate recognizing their achievement and will be listed in Nortel Networks’ database as an officially certified professional. This certification is valid for three years after which time recertification may be necessary in order to maintain status as an active certified professional.

10. Ericsson Certified Technology - IP Networking

Ericsson Certified Technology - IP Networking is a certification program designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to design, configure, manage, and troubleshoot IP networks. This certification is offered by Ericsson, one of the world’s leading providers of telecommunications equipment and services.

The Ericsson Certified Technology – IP Networking certification requires candidates to pass an online exam that covers topics such as network fundamentals, routing protocols, switching technologies, quality of service (QoS), security, and network management. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

To qualify for the Ericsson Certified Technology – IP Networking certification, candidates must have at least two years of experience in designing or managing IP networks. Candidates must also be familiar with Cisco IOS commands and concepts such as VLANs, ACLs, NAT/PAT, QoS, IPv6, etc.

The cost of the Ericsson Certified Technology – IP Networking exam is $350 USD. Once you have passed the exam you will receive your official certificate from Ericsson.

Do You Really Need a Communication Technician Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your career aspirations and the requirements of the job you are seeking. In some cases, a communication technician certificate may be necessary to qualify for certain jobs in the field, while in others it may not be necessary.

For those looking to enter into a career as a communications technician, it is important to understand the job requirements. Communication technicians install and maintain telecommunications systems, such as telephone networks, cellular networks and other types of communication systems. They must also have knowledge of computer systems and software applications used in communications technology. Having a certificate in this field can demonstrate that an individual has acquired the necessary skills and knowledge to perform these tasks effectively.

Having a certificate can also open up opportunities for higher paying jobs or positions with more responsibility. It can also provide an edge over other applicants who do not have any formal training or certifications in the field of communications technology. Additionally, having a certificate can provide a sense of credibility when applying for jobs or when interviewing with potential employers.

In summary, whether or not you need a communication technician certificate depends on your career aspirations and the specific requirements of the job you are seeking. While having a certificate may give you an advantage over other applicants, it is important to consider all factors before making your decision.

Related: Communication Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Communication Technician Certifications

1. What is a Communication Technician Certification?

Answer: A Communication Technician Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the installation, maintenance, and repair of communication systems. This includes both wired and wireless systems such as routers, switches, hubs, modems, and other network devices.

2. What are the requirements for obtaining a Communication Technician Certification?

Answer: Generally speaking, most certifications require individuals to pass an exam or series of exams in order to demonstrate their knowledge and experience with communication technology. Additionally, some certifications may require applicants to have a certain amount of on-the-job experience or training in order to be eligible for certification.

3. How long does it take to obtain a Communication Technician Certification?

Answer: The length of time it takes to obtain a Communication Technician Certification varies depending on the type of certification being pursued and the individual's background experience. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from several weeks up to several months depending on the complexity of the certification process.

4. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as a Communication Technician?

Answer: Yes, most certifications require applicants to have basic knowledge or experience with communication systems prior to applying for certification. This usually involves completing courses or receiving some form of technical training related to communications technology.

5. What are the benefits of having a Communication Technician Certification?

Answer: Having a Communication Technician Certification indicates that an individual has demonstrated expert knowledge in the field of communications technology which can open up new job opportunities and increase earning potential in the field. Additionally, having this certification can make an individual more desirable for employers looking for qualified candidates with specialized skillsets related to communication technology.