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Data communications specialist skills for your resume and career

Updated January 8, 2025

4 min read

Quoted experts

Dr. Todd Wittman Ph.D.,

Megan Rhee

Below we've compiled a list of the most critical data communications specialist skills. We ranked the top skills for data communications specialists based on the percentage of resumes they appeared on. For example, 11.9% of data communications specialist resumes contained switches as a skill. Continue reading to find out what skills a data communications specialist needs to be successful in the workplace.

15 data communications specialist skills for your resume and career

1. Switches

Here's how data communications specialists use switches:

Provided and maintained a $5 Million dollar network of over 200 Cisco routers and switches in 4 states.
Configure, install and troubleshoot Routers, Ethernet Switches & CSU/DSU's.

2. Routers

A router is a device that gives a computing device the capability to connect to the internet and transfer data between different devices whether at a home or office. It may include several network ports to connect many devices at one go.

Here's how data communications specialists use routers:

Performed maintenance and basic troubleshooting of Cisco routers.
Installed inside wiring, hardware (modems, network cards, routers), and software.

3. Troubleshoot

Troubleshooting is the process of analyzing and fixing any kind of problem in a system or a machine. Troubleshooting is the detailed yet quick search in the system for the main source of an issue and solving it.

Here's how data communications specialists use troubleshoot:

Install, update, configure and troubleshoot Windows XP, Vista, Win 7 workstations.
Configure, maintain and troubleshoot AD Users, Groups, Computers and OU's.

4. Fiber Optic

Fiber optic is a technology used for the super-fast transmission of information as pulses of light over long distances. It is achieved to optical fiber wires, which are almost as thin as human hair and is made from glass or plastic. Fiber optic technology is generally used for providing super-fast internet and mobile networking services.

Here's how data communications specialists use fiber optic:

Install and maintain communications cabling (Cat-6), Fiber optics, patch panels, T-1 lines, and communications rooms.
Set up servers, test data lines, and install feeder lines including fiber optic lines.

5. VoIP

Here's how data communications specialists use voip:

Assisted in migration from ROLM CBX to Cisco VOIP system.
Design, installation and configuration of VoIP corporate network and replacing traditional telephone links links using VoIP gateways.

6. Data Communications Equipment

Here's how data communications specialists use data communications equipment:

Designed, coded, and tested software tools for support and configuration of data communications equipment.

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7. Lan

Here's how data communications specialists use lan:

Assisted with LAN deployment for the police station in Ontario Mills mall.
Certified Fundamental Tactical LAN (80 Hours) U.S Army Airborne & Reserved Officers /Junior Enlisted as an Army Reservist

8. TCP/IP

Here's how data communications specialists use tcp/ip:

Developed and tested technical standards for HBOC using TCP/IP.
Consulted on MBNA TCP/IP network restructuring.

9. Linux

Linux is a Unix-like operating system. Just like Windows, Mac OS, and IOS, Linux is an operating system used by millions across the globe. Android itself is powered by the Linux operating system. Linux manages all the hardware resources that are associated with your computer. The software is famous because of the protection it grants from viruses, malware, and crashes. The Linux operating system is entirely free and is an open-source software meaning it can be altered by those equipped with the knowledge to code.

Here's how data communications specialists use linux:

Monitored network using sniffer tools, HP Network Node Manager, Opnet, and MRTG running on Linux server.
Maintained and supported the installation and configuration of resort-wide LAN and Linux server to provide inter-office email and shared Internet access

10. VPN

A Virtual Private Network, VPN encrypts a device's internet access, activity, and identity through a secure server, making data theft and third-party traceability more difficult, and increasing the privacy and security of public and private networks, the internet, and Wi-Fi hotspots. The VPN is designed to protect one's system and network from being compromised.

Here's how data communications specialists use vpn:

Connected partner companies over VPN tunnels to protect any confidential data from being compromised and/or intercepted.
Delivered a major improvement over old VPN system that catapulted productivity of remote customer force.

11. PC

Here's how data communications specialists use pc:

Worked with Active Directory in the PC Support group (print groups, auto-log accounts, group policy troubleshooting).
Install and maintain PC Support, Token Ring, APPC, APPN lines/controllers and Dial back security.

12. BGP

The Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) is a procedure that facilitates the exchange of routing information among different networks connected through the internet. It also refers to the electronic language used among internet routers, to determine how a piece of information is sent from one router to the other over the network. This process is extremely quick that occurs within mini-seconds, enabling the internet to function properly.

Here's how data communications specialists use bgp:

Designed, engineered, and implemented Cisco Router connectivity to the Internet using BGP protocol.
Introduced BGP for connectivity to the corporate network.

13. Computer System

Here's how data communications specialists use computer system:

Supervised technical staff to install computer systems on a wide-area network to support a client/server installation.
Operated and maintained internal network and computer systems, including diagnosis and trouble-shooting for network-related issues.

14. OSPF

Here's how data communications specialists use ospf:

Introduced OSPF to replace RIP as the routing protocol.
Configure and troubleshot routing protocols such as BGP, OSPF, EIRGP and routing issues as well as MPLS/VRF lite services.

15. Network Equipment

Here's how data communications specialists use network equipment:

Performed network analysis and reconfiguration to resolve weaknesses in network equipment and facilities.
Completed several site migration and network equipment upgrades, circuit installations and redesigns.

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What skills help Data Communications Specialists find jobs?

Tell us what job you are looking for, we’ll show you what skills employers want.

What skills stand out on data communications specialist resumes?

Dr. Todd Wittman Ph.D.

Associate Professor, The Citadel

I would strongly recommend any mathematics major to get a good background in statistics and computer programming, even if that is not going to be their primary field of study. You can still concentrate on the topics that interest you, but it is important to diversify your skill set.

Getting involved in a research project tells a prospective employer that you have done work beyond the classroom. It shows that you can tackle a difficult problem that does not have an answer in the back of the textbook. At most colleges and universities, faculty are eager to work with bright undergraduate students on projects. Students are often intimidated by their faculty, but it does not hurt to ask. It might result in an interesting research experience, internship, or even a lead on a job after graduation.

What data communications specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?

Megan Rhee

Assistant Professor, Klein Family School of Communications Design, University of Baltimore

So much is changing, and rapidly, as we are living in Industry 4.0 that it's hard to know what will be more important in the field in the near future. But I look to those skill sets that transcend the technology changes or trends - active listening, critical thinking, storytelling, understanding of audience, empathy, accessibility, flexibility, creativity, time management, etc. - as all the more critical. At the University of Baltimore we've been teaching integrated design for a long time now and I think that integration is key. Silos don't work, so knowing how to integrate your skills - especially in communication, design, and planning - to any field is invaluable. A communication design or integrated design degree sets you up for more than one job title or trajectory and in multiple industries. Being interested in other areas outside of your discipline and looking for ways to make connections and integrate teams and systems will have significant ongoing value in the field. And I do think writing continues to be a skill that will be more and more crucial. We're changing our language and the way we communicate all the time. We aren't going to lose our need to write well, but instead are going to have to use stronger writing skills to complement and enhance the capabilities of artificial intelligence. Writing in plain language, structured writing and storytelling all become more prevalent as we move into more integrated uses of AI in our daily work.

What type of skills will young data communications specialists need?

Elisha Blankson

Program Director NCCU, Assistant Professor, North Carolina Central University

Graduates will need a skill set about the field in which they received training and additional skills useful to the job market. For example, with the changing demographics in the United States, extra skills in information technology and foreign languages will be a plus when entering the job market.

What technical skills for a data communications specialist stand out to employers?

Chirag Parikh Ph.D.

Computer Engineering Chair, Grand Valley State University

If you ask me, I consider valuable experience over good paycheck. Once you have gained that experience the paycheck will follow. As soon as you are out of college, the knowledge gained is very fresh and raring to go. If put into the right place can enhance your technical skills and you can do wonders.
As a Computer Engineering professor, I would say the job opportunities are tremendous for students out of college as they can venture into hardware field (technical support, hardware engineer, test engineer and much more) as well as software field (software engineer, software developer, software tester and much more). The possibilities are endless.
With COVID and employees working remotely there is still ample opportunity to enhance your technical and interpersonal skills as I believe remote working might stay for a while till things get back to normal.

What hard/technical skills are most important for data communications specialists?

Kevin Trowbridge Ph.D.

Department Chair, Associate Professor of Public Relations, Belmont University

Communicating in writing and in oral presentations is a basic skill, but doing so concisely in a manner that captivates and compels your audience is something to work on mastering. It's also important to be able to write with style. Associated Press (AP) style is an industry-standard for communication professionals. However, it's critical to learn and apply the ideal style of the communication channel you're using.

Aspiring communication professionals must be able to use applications for word processing, create presentations, organize data, communicate digitally (e.g., email), and manage tasks and projects. You can do a lot of simple tasks using web-based apps, and that's what many students have used through school. However, you'll stand out if you're a superuser who really knows how to work applications like Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook. These applications are powerhouses-if you know how to use them. If you can work magic with them and do it efficiently, you're already ahead of the game, and it will make your life so much easier. Of course, other specialized applications may be required by your organization or your position, e.g., design, photography, audio, and video editing software. Be prepared to learn the ones you need. There is plenty of online tutorials that are free or inexpensive.

Another way to set yourself apart is by earning and showcasing you are invested in your own professional development. There are increasing numbers of industry-recognized courses and exams to earn certificates showing your competencies in the profession. For example, seniors or recent graduates could earn the Principles of Public Relations Certificate offered by the Universal Accreditation Board, Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), and its student organization, PRSSA. Google, HubSpot, and Muck Rack are among industry service providers who have developed training programs where students can earn certificates to make them marketable.

Do you want to know more?

List of data communications specialist skills to add to your resume

The most important skills for a data communications specialist resume and required skills for a data communications specialist to have include:

Switches
Routers
Troubleshoot
Fiber Optic
VoIP
Data Communications Equipment
Lan
TCP/IP
Linux
VPN
PC

BGP
Computer System
OSPF
Network Equipment
Network Support
Desktop Support
T1
Mainframe
Novell
Disaster Recovery
Ethernet

Windows NT
Unix
Mac
Software Updates
PowerPoint
DNS
Corporate Network
Management Tools
Patch Panels
SNA
Remote Locations

Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

Updated January 8, 2025

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