Lead RF Engineer - Mobile Network Optimization

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

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Annual leave

Training opportunities

Conference exposure

Certifications

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town, Western Cape, seeks a Lead RF Engineer to spearhead network optimization for 2G/3G/4G/5G. You will lead a team of RF engineers, shaping RF planning, design, and expansion to ensure superior voice and data services for subscribers.

The ideal candidate holds a Master’s degree in Electrical/Telecommunications Engineering with 8+ years in RF engineering, plus proven leadership, RF propagation, antenna theory, and mobile network architectures.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications Engineering, or related field.
• At least 8 years' progressive RF engineering experience in mobile telecoms.
• Proven leadership experience managing technical teams.
• Deep knowledge of RF propagation, antennas, and mobile architectures.
• Experience with RF planning tools (Atoll, Planet) and drive test analysis.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of RF engineers focused on network performance.
• Develop and implement RF planning, design, and expansion strategies.
• Analyze KPIs and drive tests to identify improvements and actions.
• Conduct site surveys and optimization for new base stations.
• Troubleshoot RF interference and capacity issues across 2G/3G/4G/5G.
• Manage vendor relationships and evaluate RF technologies.

Skills

Leadership

RF engineering

Network optimization

Drive tests

Antenna theory

Mobile networks

Data analysis

Communication

Education

Masters degree in Electrical/Telecommunications Engineering

Tools

Atoll

Planet

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier telecommunications operator, is seeking a visionary Lead RF Engineer to spearhead network optimization initiatives in Cape Town, Western Cape. This critical leadership position involves driving the performance and efficiency of our extensive mobile network, ensuring superior voice and data services for our subscribers. You will lead a team of RF engineers, leveraging advanced analytical tools and strategic planning to enhance network coverage, capacity, and quality. This role is essential for maintaining our competitive edge and delivering an unparalleled customer experience in one of South Africa's most vibrant cities. The successful candidate will have a significant impact on the future development of our mobile infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of RF engineers focused on network performance and optimization.
• Develop and implement strategies for RF network planning, design, and expansion.
• Analyze network performance data (e.g., KPIs, drive tests) to identify areas for improvement and execute corrective actions.
• Conduct site surveys, selection, and optimization for new base station deployments.
• Troubleshoot complex RF interference and capacity issues across 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G technologies.
• Manage vendor relationships and evaluate new RF technologies and equipment.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards for RF emissions and network operation.
• Collaborate with other departments to align RF strategy with business objectives and customer needs.
• Prepare detailed technical reports and present findings to senior management.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in RF engineering within the mobile telecommunications industry.
• Demonstrated leadership experience in managing technical teams.
• In-depth knowledge of RF propagation principles, antenna theory, and mobile network architectures.
• Expertise in RF planning tools (e.g., Atoll, Planet) and drive test analysis software.
• Experience with various cellular technologies (GSM, WCDMA, LTE, NR).
• Strong understanding of network optimization techniques and capacity planning.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Superior communication and presentation skills.

Benefits

• This position offers an attractive annual salary with a comprehensive bonus scheme tied to network performance targets.
• Our client provides top-tier medical aid, a robust retirement fund, and generous annual leave.
• Professional growth is highly valued, with opportunities for specialized training, attending international conferences, and pursuing advanced certifications.
• You will be part of an innovative and forward-thinking organization located in the scenic city of Cape Town .
• The role is based at our client's central offices, facilitating strong team collaboration and direct access to key stakeholders, contributing to a highly productive work environment.