Lead Telecommunications Network Engineer

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,600,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Job summary

WhatJobs Direct is seeking an experienced Lead Telecommunications Network Engineer for its Sandton, Gauteng operations. The role blends leadership from the Sandton office with remote task flexibility, focusing on the design, implementation, and ongoing maintenance of a high‑performance telecom network.

You will guide a team of engineers, shape network standards, and drive efficiency, security, and scalability across enterprise infrastructure in a hybrid work environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required in a relevant field.
• 8+ years of telecommunications network engineering experience, with leadership exposure.
• Deep knowledge of routing protocols, switching, MPLS, and IP networking.
• Familiarity with SDN/NFV and cloud networking concepts.
• Strong security principles and best practices.
• Proven leadership, problem solving, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and deployment of complex telecom network solutions.
• Provide technical mentorship to a team of network engineers.
• Oversee network architecture for current and future needs.
• Develop and maintain network standards and documentation.
• Troubleshoot critical network issues and perform root cause analysis.
• Evaluate new network technologies and solutions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate services.
• Manage vendor relationships and assess equipment offerings.
• Ensure network security is maintained and enhanced.

Skills

BGP

OSPF

MPLS

IP Networking

SDN/NFV

Cloud networking

Leadership

Communication

Education

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

Tools

CCNP

CCIE

JNCIP

NetworkAutomation

Job description

About the Role

WhatJobs Direct is seeking an experienced and authoritative Lead Telecommunications Network Engineer for our operations in Sandton, Gauteng, ZA . This hybrid role requires a blend of leadership from our Sandton office and the flexibility to work remotely on designated tasks. You will be responsible for the design, implementation, and maintenance of our advanced telecommunications network infrastructure. This includes providing technical leadership to a team of engineers, ensuring network stability, performance, and scalability. Our client requires a visionary leader capable of driving innovation and ensuring the highest standards of network engineering. This is a key position in shaping the future of our network capabilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and deployment of complex telecommunications network solutions.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to a team of network engineers.
• Oversee network architecture, ensuring it meets current and future business requirements for performance, scalability, and reliability.
• Develop and maintain network standards, best practices, and documentation.
• Troubleshoot and resolve critical network issues, performing root cause analysis.
• Evaluate and recommend new network technologies and solutions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate network services with other IT systems.
• Manage vendor relationships and evaluate network equipment and service offerings.
• Ensure network security is maintained and enhanced according to industry best practices.
• Participate in capacity planning and network performance monitoring initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in telecommunications network engineering, with significant experience in a lead or senior role.
• Extensive knowledge of routing protocols (BGP, OSPF), switching, MPLS, and IP networking.
• Proven experience designing and managing large-scale enterprise networks.
• Familiarity with SDN, NFV, and cloud networking concepts.
• Strong understanding of network security principles and best practices.
• Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Experience working in a hybrid environment, managing both on-site and remote team members.
• Ability to articulate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Relevant advanced certifications (e.g., CCNP, CCIE, JNCIP) are highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and retirement contributions. This hybrid role provides the flexibility to balance office and remote work. Opportunities for leadership development and continuous technical training are provided. You will play a pivotal role in shaping our network strategy and have a significant impact on our technological direction. Our client fosters a dynamic work environment in Sandton , promoting innovation and career advancement.