Lead RF Design Engineer - 5G Infrastructure

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary with bonuses

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement plan with company matching

Relocation assistance

International travel opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead RF Design Engineer to drive the design and optimization of 5G RF networks in Cape Town. You will lead a team of engineers, oversee site surveys, and coordinate with vendors to deliver high-performance wireless infrastructure.

The role requires deep expertise in RF design, 5G NR, and propagation modeling, with a track record of successful deployments and strong leadership capabilities in a dynamic telecom environment.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or related field.
• 8+ years of RF design/optimization for mobile networks, with at least 2 years in a lead role.
• Expertise in 5G NR standards, propagation modeling, and RF planning tools (Atoll, Planet).
• Strong knowledge of antenna theory, transmission lines, and RF components.
• Proven experience with RF site acquisition, permitting, and construction processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and optimization of RF networks, focusing on 5G NR and spectrum.
• Develop RF design plans, conduct site surveys, and perform RF performance analysis for coverage and capacity.
• Manage and mentor a team of RF engineers; provide technical leadership.
• Collaborate with equipment vendors to evaluate new technologies and ensure compatibility.
• Troubleshoot RF-related issues to minimize service disruptions.
• Stay updated on mobile tech trends and RF engineering advancements.
• Prepare reports and presentations on network performance and project status for senior management.
• Ensure adherence to budget, schedule, and quality standards.

Skills

RF design

5G NR

Leadership

Propagation modeling

RF planning tools

Antenna theory

Data analysis

LTE knowledge

Education

Master's degree in Electrical Engineering / Telecommunications

PhD in Electrical Engineering / Telecommunications

Tools

Atoll

Planet

Job description

About the Role Our client, a prominent player in the telecommunications sector, is looking for a highly experienced Lead RF Design Engineer to spearhead the development and optimization of 5G infrastructure in **Cape Town**. This critical role involves leading a team of engineers in the design, planning, and implementation of advanced radio frequency (RF) systems, ensuring superior network performance and coverage. You will play a key role in shaping the future of mobile connectivity, working with state-of-the-art technology to deliver unparalleled wireless experiences. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of RF principles and a proven track record of successful network deployments.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and optimization of RF networks, focusing on 5G New Radio (NR) technologies and spectrum.
• Develop RF design plans, conduct site surveys, and perform RF performance analysis to ensure optimal coverage, capacity, and quality.
• Manage and mentor a team of RF engineers, providing technical leadership and guidance.
• Collaborate with equipment vendors to evaluate new technologies and ensure compatibility with existing infrastructure.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex RF-related issues, minimizing service disruptions.
• Stay abreast of the latest trends and advancements in mobile communication technologies and RF engineering.
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations on network performance, design changes, and project status for senior management.
• Ensure adherence to budget, schedule, and quality standards for all RF design projects.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in RF design and optimization for mobile networks, with at least 2 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• Expertise in 5G NR standards, propagation modeling, and RF planning tools (e.g., Atoll, Planet).
• Strong understanding of antenna theory, transmission lines, and RF component characteristics.
• Proven experience with RF site acquisition, permitting, and construction processes.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and team management skills.
• Proficiency in data analysis and reporting tools.
• Experience in LTE and previous generation technologies is a plus.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching.
• Opportunities for international travel and professional development.
• Relocation assistance may be provided for exceptional candidates.
• Dynamic work environment in the vibrant city of **Cape Town**.