Telecommunication Line Mechanic

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Telecommunication Line Mechanic. The Telecommunication Line Mechanic performs several tasks to ensure optimum operation of telecommunication equipment and components: • Install telecommunication equipment and components and test for functionality. • Perform maintenance (preventative, scheduled, and unscheduled) on telecommunication equipment and components. • Analyse first-line test readings data and diagnose possible cause of faults. • Repair, remove and replace telecommunication equipment and components. • Find solutions to a range of problems within their defined context. A qualified learner will be able to: • Apply fundamental knowledge and principles of telecommunications and related electronic and electrical theory and practice. • Use hand tools, power tools, measuring instruments and test instruments when working on telecommunication cables and equipment. • Install, maintain, and repair telecommunication copper cables. • Install, maintain, and repair telecommunication fibre optic cables. • Install, maintain, and repair telecommunication equipment and components.

The telecommunications industry has been impacted tremendously by the rapid evolution and expansion of new data and network services enabled by changing and advanced telecommunication technologies and infrastructure. The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) represents a fundamental change in the way we live, work, and relate to one another. It is a new chapter in human development, enabled by extraordinary technology advances and therefore the qualification will be one of key skills required for the Internet of Things (IoT). The Telecommunication Line Mechanic Occupation forms part of the 2018 list of Occupations in High Demand that have been identified by the Department of Higher Education and Training, and it has been listed as a trade occupation as per Government Gazette 35625, published on 31 August 2012, and identified as a trade occupation in terms of Section 26B of the Skills Development Act, 1998 (Act No. 97 of 1998). It is for these policies that the QCTO prioritised the development of the Telecommunication Line Mechanic Occupational qualification. While it is noted that the Telecommunication Line Mechanic occupation is listed as a trade qualification, there is currently no structured training and no trade testing that is taking place for this trade qualification. The occupational qualification is aimed at new entrants as well as currently employed personnel. Qualified learners are likely to be employed across the economic sectors that include but not limited to security systems, data networks, broadcasting, rail, and mobile communication. This qualification will enable learners to perform first-line repairs, troubleshooting, maintenance, installation, and operations within the telecommunication related industries. This requires learners to be trained in line with the latest technologies that will empower them to become employed or self-employed and thereby contributing positively to the economy and society and further provide employment opportunities.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): • Learners will gain access to the qualification through RPL for Access as provided for in the QCTO RPL Policy. RPL for access is conducted by accredited education institution, skills development provider or workplace accredited to offer that specific qualification/part qualification. • Learners who have acquired competencies of the modules of a qualification or part qualification will be credited for modules through RPL. RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result. Entry Requirements: • An NQF Level 2 qualification with Mathematics and Science.

• Provide the correct answers to a range of formulated knowledge questions through a written assessment to assess fundamental knowledge and principles of telecommunications and related electronic and electrical theory and practice.
• Apply hand skills to perform telecommunication tasks by using hand tools, power tools and test instruments and measuring instrument.
• Demonstrate ways to install, maintain, and repair telecommunication cables.
• Use relevant knowledge to install, maintain, and repair telecommunication equipment and components.