Lead 5G Network Deployment Specialist

Placements24; Kempton Park; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private healthcare

Life insurance

Retirement savings plan

Training and development

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa seeks a Lead 5G Network Deployment Specialist to drive end-to-end deployment and optimization of 5G infrastructure from on-site bases in Tembisa, Gauteng. You will oversee site acquisition, civil works, installation, and commissioning, ensuring high performance and compliance.

With 8+ years in mobile network deployment and 3+ years in 5G (NSA/SA), you will manage budgets, coordinate with field teams and vendors, mentor staff, and report progress to senior management.

Qualifications

• 8+ years in mobile network deployment with at least 3 years focused on 5G (NSA/SA).
• Experience managing large-scale deployment projects, including budgets and resources.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end deployment of 5G network sites including site acquisition, civil works, installation and commissioning.
• Develop detailed project plans, timelines and budgets for 5G rollout initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with regulations, standards and safety protocols during deployment.
• Coordinate with field engineers, contractors and vendors to meet milestones.
• Troubleshoot technical issues during deployment and integration phases.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Master's or Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, Computer Science, or related field

Tools

RAN planning tools

Project management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the telecommunications sector, is looking for a dynamic and experienced Lead 5G Network Deployment Specialist to oversee the expansion and optimization of their 5G network infrastructure. This critical role, based in the bustling area of Tembisa, Gauteng, ZA, requires a visionary leader with extensive expertise in mobile network technologies, particularly 5G deployment strategies and execution. You will be at the forefront of deploying cutting‑edge wireless technologies, ensuring seamless connectivity and high performance for our rapidly growing customer base. This is a hands‑on position demanding on‑site presence to manage complex field operations and stakeholder engagement.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the end‑to‑end deployment of 5G network sites, including site acquisition, civil works, equipment installation, and commissioning.
• Develop detailed project plans, timelines, and budgets for 5G rollout initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, standards, and safety protocols during deployment activities.
• Oversee and coordinate with field engineers, contractors, and equipment vendors to achieve project milestones.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues that arise during the deployment and integration phases.
• Conduct site surveys and feasibility studies for new network deployments.
• Collaborate with planning and optimization teams to ensure network performance meets design specifications.
• Manage vendor relationships and performance to ensure timely delivery of equipment and services.
• Prepare and present regular project status reports to senior management.
• Mentor and guide junior deployment specialists and technical staff.

Requirements

• Master's or Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, Computer Science, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of experience in mobile network deployment, with at least 3 years specifically focused on 5G technologies (NSA and SA).
• Proven experience in managing large‑scale network deployment projects, including budget and resource management.
• In‑depth understanding of RAN (Radio Access Network), core network elements (5GC), and transport network technologies relevant to 5G.
• Familiarity with RF planning tools, site acquisition processes, and relevant regulatory frameworks.
• Strong project management skills, PMP certification is a plus.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a demanding environment.
• Must be willing to work on‑site in Tembisa, Gauteng, ZA, and undertake frequent travel within the region as project demands require.

Benefits

• This role comes with a highly competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Our client provides a comprehensive benefits package including private healthcare, life insurance, and a generous retirement savings plan.
• We invest in our employees' growth through continuous training and development opportunities, allowing you to stay at the cutting edge of 5G technology.
• You will have the chance to work on challenging and rewarding projects that shape the future of mobile connectivity in South Africa.