Lead 5G Network Architect

Placements24; George; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Performance-based bonus

Continuous learning & development

Modern facility in George

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an exceptional Lead 5G Network Architect in George, Western Cape, to drive the design and evolution of the next-generation network infrastructure. You will define strategic direction for 5G deployment, ensuring seamless integration with existing systems and optimizing performance for future services.

The role requires a visionary leader with deep wireless, cloud-native, and network virtualization expertise.

Qualifications

• Master’s or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in telecommunications network architecture and design, with a strong focus on wireless technologies.
• Extensive experience with 5G NR, SA/NSA architectures, and related standards.
• Deep understanding of cloud-native principles, SDN/NFV, and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Proficiency in network simulation tools and performance analysis.
• Experience with OSS/BSS integration and impact on network architecture.
• Strong understanding of IP networking, routing protocols, and security principles.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically and translate complex technical concepts into actionable plans.
• Experience in the Western Cape region is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Develop and own the architecture for the company's 5G network, including RAN, Core, and transport layers.
• Define technical standards and best practices for 5G network design, deployment, and operation.
• Collaborate with vendors to evaluate and select appropriate technologies and solutions.
• Lead the technical aspects of 5G network planning, capacity management, and performance optimization.
• Provide architectural guidance and technical leadership to engineering and development teams.
• Identify and mitigate potential risks and challenges in 5G network implementation.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends in 5G and beyond.
• Develop proof-of-concept initiatives and conduct trials for new technologies.
• Ensure network architecture supports scalability, reliability, security, and cost-effectiveness.
• Present complex technical designs and strategies to executive leadership and stakeholders.

Skills

5G NR

SA/NSA

Cloud-native

SDN/NFV

Docker

Kubernetes

OSS/BSS

IP networking

Security

Leadership

Presentation

Strategic thinking

Education

Master’s or PhD in EE/CS

Tools

Docker

Kubernetes

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent telecommunications innovator, is seeking an exceptional Lead 5G Network Architect to spearhead the design and evolution of their next-generation network infrastructure in George, Western Cape . This pivotal role involves defining the strategic direction for 5G deployment, ensuring seamless integration with existing systems, and optimizing performance for future services. The successful candidate will be a visionary leader with a deep understanding of wireless technologies, cloud-native architectures, and network virtualization. You will work closely with engineering teams, product development, and operational staff to translate business requirements into robust technical solutions. This is an unparalleled opportunity to shape the future of mobile communications in a challenging and exciting environment. We are looking for a candidate who possesses a passion for innovation and a proven track record in architecting large-scale, complex networks. Your expertise will be critical in driving our client's competitive advantage in the rapidly evolving telecommunications landscape. We offer a stimulating work environment and significant opportunities for professional growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and own the overall architecture for the company's 5G network, including RAN, Core, and transport layers.
• Define technical standards and best practices for 5G network design, deployment, and operation.
• Collaborate with vendors to evaluate and select appropriate technologies and solutions.
• Lead the technical aspects of 5G network planning, capacity management, and performance optimization.
• Provide architectural guidance and technical leadership to engineering and development teams.
• Identify and mitigate potential risks and challenges in 5G network implementation.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends in 5G and beyond.
• Develop proof-of-concept initiatives and conduct trials for new technologies.
• Ensure network architecture supports scalability, reliability, security, and cost-effectiveness.
• Present complex technical designs and strategies to executive leadership and stakeholders.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in telecommunications network architecture and design, with a strong focus on wireless technologies.
• Extensive experience with 5G NR, SA/NSA architectures, and related standards.
• Deep understanding of cloud-native principles, SDN/NFV, and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Proficiency in network simulation tools and performance analysis.
• Experience with OSS/BSS integration and impact on network architecture.
• Strong understanding of IP networking, routing protocols, and security principles.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically and translate complex technical concepts into actionable plans.
• Experience in the Western Cape region is an advantage.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, a comprehensive health and wellness program, a lucrative performance-based bonus structure, a substantial retirement annuity contribution, and extensive opportunities for continuous learning and professional development.
• Employees will enjoy working with cutting-edge technology in a state-of-the facility in George , a supportive team culture, and the chance to make a significant impact on the future of telecommunications.
• Additional benefits include relocation assistance if applicable and flexible working arrangements where feasible.