How Do Telecom Engineers Freelance?

In an age when we're constantly connected by the internet (thanks in part to the work of telecom engineers), the freelance market is exploding. Online freelance platforms make connecting with clients as simple as setting up a social media profile. The freedom that the lifestyle offers appeals to many: from Millennia’s who value experiences over stability, to parents who want more time with their kids. With freelance work so appealing and accessible, it's no surprise that the freelance marketplace now drives over a third of the American economy.

Most of the popular platforms however, like Fiverr and Upwork, are aimed at lower-skill and creative work. They don't pay what a Telecom Engineer or other professional deserves for their effort. So, in the past few years, they've been left out of this rapid growth.

That's not the case anymore. New platforms have opened up specifically to draw engineering professionals and industry standbys have started to tailor a niche in their systems for high-skill freelancers. Those interested in starting off as Freelance Telecom Engineers now have the chance to hop on the trend with these sites.

People Per Hour

Founded in the UK, this site offers freelance job postings for seemingly every profession. Workers are paid by the hour, as the name suggests, and projects tend to be small. Offerings for engineers are sparse. It's likely a good option to have on the side, but not a place to base your career around.

Field Engineer

One of the first sites specifically for engineers, Field Engineer is now the standard in its field. It matches you automatically, which removes most of the unpaid effort from freelancing and brings higher returns per hour. It's an innovative digital marketplace, with plenty of gigs, to connect talented field engineers with companies that need extra help on projects.

Upwork

One of the largest freelance sites, Upwork has surprisingly few jobs for engineers. It may draw attention for its size and market share, but a freelance telecom engineer would be wise not to rely too heavily on this site. Those starting off as freelancers would be wise to check it out regularly due to the huge number of jobs that are posted there every day. However, once established, Upwork should take up less of your precious freelancer energy.

Overall, prospects are good for Telecom Engineers looking to freelance. The market is growing, and big companies like GE and Verizon are ever increasing their use of freelance work. Using online platforms is one great way to take control of the projects your work on and the hours you work. They're cheapest, quickest way to start freelancing.

The next step is taking your job hunt into the real world. Attending networking events and joining professional organizations, like the Association of Communications Engineers, will help establish an even wider network of collaborators. Online work can fill the gap while you grow your freelance business by word-of-mouth.

With both techniques combined, telecom engineers can ensure a steady stream of freelance telecommunication jobs projects. Breaking free of the boss and office lifestyle is possible without losing income. Taking control of your work life has never been easier.

An avid reader who loves to travel across beautiful places and cooks in free time.