Graduate Network Engineer

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 280,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Mentorship

Certifications support

Bonuses potential

Hands-on experience

Wellness benefits

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Graduate Network Engineer in Polokwane to join a growing IT infrastructure team. You will gain hands‑on experience designing, implementing, and maintaining complex network systems while working closely with senior engineers in a mentored environment.

The role focuses on reliability, security, and performance of the network. Ideal candidates are recent graduates with a passion for networking, strong problem‑solving skills, and a eagerness to learn in a fast‑moving

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in CS/IT/EE or related field.
• Strong understanding of networking fundamentals (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, routing).
• CCNA or similar certification is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Install, configure and maintain network hardware (routers, switches, firewalls).
• Monitor performance and security; troubleshoot issues.
• Design and implement network infrastructure upgrades.
• Document configurations, procedures and runbooks.
• Collaborate with IT teams to ensure seamless integration of services.
• Contribute to capacity planning and performance optimization.
• Respond to incidents with timely resolutions.
• Stay updated on latest networking technologies and best practices.

Skills

Networking fundamentals

TCP/IP

DNS & DHCP

Routing protocols

Analytical thinking

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/IT/EE

Tools

Cisco hardware

Juniper hardware

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading telecommunications provider, is seeking an enthusiastic Graduate Network Engineer to join their expanding IT infrastructure team in Polokwane . This role offers a unique opportunity for a recent graduate with a passion for networking and infrastructure to gain hands‑on experience in designing, implementing, and maintaining complex network systems. You will work closely with senior engineers, supporting the daily operations of our robust network, troubleshooting issues, and contributing to network upgrade projects. We are committed to fostering talent and providing a structured learning environment with excellent mentorship to help you grow into a skilled network professional. The successful candidate will play a vital role in ensuring the reliability, security, and performance of our client's network infrastructure, which is critical to their service delivery. You will gain exposure to a wide range of networking technologies, protocols, and hardware, developing valuable expertise in a fast‑evolving field. Our client values technical aptitude, a proactive approach to problem‑solving, and a commitment to continuous learning. This position is perfect for an ambitious graduate eager to build a successful career in network engineering within a dynamic and forward‑thinking organization. The team environment is collaborative, encouraging knowledge sharing and teamwork to tackle technical challenges effectively.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the installation, configuration, and maintenance of network hardware, including routers, switches, and firewalls.
• Monitor network performance and security, identifying and resolving issues.
• Support the troubleshooting of network connectivity and performance problems.
• Participate in the design and implementation of network infrastructure upgrades and expansions.
• Document network configurations, procedures, and troubleshooting guides.
• Assist in managing network security measures to protect against threats.
• Contribute to capacity planning and network optimization efforts.
• Respond to network‑related incidents and provide timely resolutions.
• Collaborate with other IT teams to ensure seamless integration of network services.
• Stay updated with the latest networking technologies and best practices.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong understanding of networking fundamentals, including TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, and routing protocols.
• Familiarity with network hardware from major vendors (e.g., Cisco, Juniper).
• Basic knowledge of network security principles.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Certifications such as CCNA are a plus.
• A keen interest in network technologies and infrastructure.
• Must be legally authorized to work in Polokwane .

Benefits

• A competitive entry‑level salary package.
• Comprehensive training and mentorship from experienced network engineers.
• Opportunities for professional certifications and career advancement.
• Hands‑on experience with advanced network technologies and infrastructure.
• A supportive and dynamic work environment in Polokwane .
• Exposure to critical network operations for a major telecommunications company.
• Potential for performance‑based bonuses.
• Health and wellness benefits.
• Regular team meetings and technical training sessions.
• Contribution to the backbone of modern communication services.