Optical Network Engineer

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

competitive salary

comprehensive health and retirement

professional development

hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Optical Network Engineer for a role based in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, ZA. The position offers a hybrid work arrangement, blending in-office collaboration with remote work to support high-capacity optical networks.

Ideal candidates have a Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering or Telecommunications and 5+ years of experience in optical network design, implementation, and support, with strong DWDM/OTN knowledge and experience with optical test equipment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or related field.
• 5+ years of optical network design, implementation, and support.
• Strong knowledge of DWDM, OTN, GMPLS, and SONET/SDH principles.
• Experience with optical test equipment (OTDRs, power meters, optical spectrum analyzers).
• Familiarity with optical NMS and protocols.

Responsibilities

• Design and engineer optical network solutions including DWDM, OTN, and Ethernet-over-Optical systems.
• Plan and execute network upgrades, expansions, and new deployments.
• Troubleshoot and fault-isolate optical transport networks.
• Develop and maintain network documentation (diagrams, configurations, procedures).
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams for seamless integration.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Teamwork

Independent work

Time management

Education

Bachelors in Electrical Engineering or Telecommunications

Tools

OTDRs

Power meters

Optical spectrum analyzers

NMS familiarity

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in high-speed data transmission and optical networking solutions, is seeking a talented Optical Network Engineer to join their team. This role is crucial for the design, implementation, and maintenance of our advanced optical network infrastructure. You will work with state-of-the-art technologies to ensure the delivery of reliable and high-capacity data services. This position is based in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, ZA, and offers a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for a flexible blend of in-office collaboration and remote work. We are looking for an individual with a strong technical foundation in optical networking principles and a commitment to operational excellence. If you are passionate about optical technologies and seeking a challenging role in a growing industry, this opportunity is ideal.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and engineer optical network solutions, including DWDM, OTN, and Ethernet-over-Optical systems.
• Plan and execute network upgrades, expansions, and new deployments.
• Perform network troubleshooting and fault isolation for optical transport networks.
• Develop and maintain network documentation, including design diagrams, configuration details, and operational procedures.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of optical networks with other infrastructure components.
• Monitor network performance and capacity, identifying potential issues and implementing optimizations.
• Stay current with industry advancements in optical networking technologies and standards.
• Conduct site surveys and technical assessments for network build-outs.
• Provide technical support and guidance to field technicians and operations teams.
• Participate in vendor evaluations and technology selection processes.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in optical network design, implementation, and support.
• Strong knowledge of DWDM, OTN, GMPLS, and SONET/SDH principles.
• Experience with optical test equipment, including OTDRs, power meters, and optical spectrum analyzers.
• Familiarity with optical network management systems (NMS) and protocols.
• Understanding of IP networking fundamentals (TCP/IP, routing protocols) is beneficial.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective teamwork.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a hybrid work setting.
• Experience with fiber optic cable management and splicing techniques is a plus.

Benefits

• competitive salary
• comprehensive health and retirement benefits
• opportunities for professional development
• a stimulating work environment.
• Enjoy the benefits of a hybrid work model, offering flexibility while contributing to critical infrastructure projects in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, ZA.

We value our employees and are committed to fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration.