Around the world, several telecommunications operators are increasing pay for frontline engineers who keep people connected during the COVID-19 pandemic.
One positive outcome of the crisis has been greater public recognition of essential workers. Roles such as retail staff and postal workers are often low paid, yet society depends on them. Similarly, telecom engineers play a crucial role ensuring networks remain resilient as more people rely on digital services for work, education, entertainment, and keeping in touch with family and friends.
Because these engineers continue to work in the field and sometimes put themselves at risk, several major providers have announced pay increases or other measures to support them.
In the UK, BT will give its frontline engineers a 1.5 percent salary increase this summer while pausing pay rises for managerial staff during the pandemic. BT’s chief executive, Philip Jansen, who was diagnosed with COVID-19 in March, has pledged to donate his salary for at least six months to NHS charities that support frontline healthcare workers.
Virgin Media has gone further, awarding around a 2.2 percent pay rise this month. The company also hired about 700 engineers who had previously worked for them as contractors, bringing those workers onto the payroll directly.
In the United States, Verizon has said it will provide significant compensation for field engineers carrying out essential services during this period. “Those are the heroes,” said Verizon CEO Hans Vestberg, highlighting the importance of the teams maintaining network access for customers and communities.
These moves reflect a broader recognition across the industry that frontline technical staff deserve tangible support for their contribution during a time of heightened demand and risk. Investing in engineers not only rewards essential work but also helps ensure network reliability for the millions who depend on it.
(Photo by 金 运 on Unsplash)
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