Lead 5G Solutions Engineer

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private health insurance

Retirement fund

Annual performance bonuses

Professional development opportunities

Subsidized travel

Paid vacation leave

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town seeks a Lead 5G Solutions Engineer to drive the design, development, and rollout of advanced 5G solutions. You will shape network architecture, lead cross-functional teams, and ensure top-tier performance and security.

The role demands 10+ years in mobile networks with 5G focus, hands-on expertise in 5G NR/5GC SA/NSA, and experience with Docker/Kubernetes in telecom contexts. Based in Cape Town, this position offers significant strategic impact and growth.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field.
• At least 10 years in mobile network engineering with a minimum of 5 years in 5G.
• Strong knowledge of 5G NR, 5GC, SA/NSA architectures, and related protocols.
• Proven experience in designing and deploying large-scale wireless networks.

Responsibilities

• Lead architectural design and technical strategy for 5G deployment and optimization.
• Develop and prototype innovative 5G solutions, incl. network slicing and edge computing.
• Collaborate with vendors and internal teams to evaluate and integrate 5G tech and equipment.
• Define performance metrics and validate 5G network components and services.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to the 5G engineering team.

Skills

5G Architecture

Leadership

Cloud-native

Vendor Management

Project Management

RAN & Transport

Education

Master's degree in Electrical/Telecommunications Engineering

Tools

Docker

Kubernetes

Network Simulation Tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier telecommunications provider in Cape Town, Western Cape , is looking for a dynamic and experienced Lead 5G Solutions Engineer. This critical role involves leading the design, development, and implementation of cutting-edge 5G solutions, driving innovation in mobile network technology. You will be at the forefront of shaping the future of wireless communication, working with advanced technologies and contributing to the expansion of our 5G network. This is an exceptional opportunity to leverage your expertise in a challenging and rewarding environment, collaborating with a talented team of engineers and influencing the strategic direction of our mobile services. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong technical leadership, a deep understanding of 5G architecture, and a passion for pushing the boundaries of what's possible in telecommunications.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural design and technical strategy for 5G network deployment and optimization.
• Develop and prototype innovative 5G solutions, focusing on areas such as network slicing, edge computing, and IoT integration.
• Collaborate with vendors and internal teams to evaluate, select, and integrate new 5G technologies and equipment.
• Define performance metrics and conduct rigorous testing and validation of 5G network components and services.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues related to 5G network deployment and operation.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to the 5G engineering team.
• Develop comprehensive technical documentation, including design specifications, test plans, and operational guides.
• Stay current with the latest 3GPP standards, industry trends, and competitive landscape in 5G technology.
• Present technical findings and recommendations to senior management and stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with security best practices and regulatory requirements for 5G networks.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related technical field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mobile network engineering, with at least 5 years focused specifically on 5G technologies.
• Extensive knowledge of 5G NR, core network (5GC), and related protocols (e.g., SA, NSA architectures).
• Proven experience in designing and deploying large-scale wireless networks.
• Familiarity with cloud-native principles and containerization technologies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes) as applied to telecom networks.
• Strong understanding of radio access network (RAN) and transport network technologies.
• Experience with network simulation tools and performance analysis techniques.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively.
• Demonstrated experience in vendor management and contract negotiation.

Benefits

Our client is offering a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package that includes private health insurance, a generous retirement fund, annual performance bonuses, and extensive professional development opportunities. Employees also benefit from subsidized travel, paid vacation leave, and access to the latest communication technology. This role is based in our state-of-the-art facility in Cape Town , providing an inspiring work environment.