Optical Network Specialist - Telecoms

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,250,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working model

Medical aid

Provident fund

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Optical Network Specialist in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, to design, implement and optimize the carrier-grade optical transmission networks for a premier telecom provider.

You will work on DWDM, OTN, SDH/SONET, and Ethernet transport, manage deployments, monitor performance, and collaborate with field operations. A bachelor’s in EE or Telecom and 6+ years in telecom optical networks are required; vendor certs are preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical or Telecommunications Engineering required.
• At least 6 years in optical network design, deployment and operations.
• Strong DWDM, OTN, SDH/SONET, and carrier Ethernet knowledge.
• Experience with NMS/EMS for optical networks.
• Vendor certifications (Ciena, Nokia, Cisco) preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design and engineer DWDM, OTN, and Ethernet transport systems.
• Plan deployment and integration of optical equipment.
• Monitor performance and ensure uptime and capacity.
• Perform capacity planning and forecasting for optical infra.
• Troubleshoot faults and optimize performance.
• Maintain detailed optical designs, schematics, and documentation.
• Collaborate with field operations for installation and commissioning.
• Evaluate new optical technologies and cost-saving options.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards.

Skills

Analytical skills

Troubleshooting

Communication skills

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Telecommunications Engineering

Tools

NMS

EMS

Optical testing equipment

Fiber characterization tools

Job description

About the Role

A premier telecommunications provider in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal is seeking a skilled Optical Network Specialist to join their expanding network infrastructure team. Our client is dedicated to delivering high-speed broadband and advanced connectivity solutions, and this role is crucial to maintaining and expanding their optical fiber network. You will be responsible for the design, implementation, and optimization of optical transmission systems, ensuring the highest levels of performance and reliability. This is a fantastic chance to advance your career in the dynamic South African telecommunications landscape and contribute to critical infrastructure projects in Durban.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and engineer optical network solutions, including DWDM, OTN, and Ethernet transport systems.
• Plan and oversee the deployment and integration of optical equipment, such as transponders, multiplexers, and amplifiers.
• Monitor network performance, identify issues, and implement solutions to ensure optimal uptime and capacity.
• Perform network capacity planning and forecasting for optical transmission infrastructure.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex optical network faults and performance degradations.
• Develop and maintain detailed optical network designs, schematics, and documentation.
• Collaborate with field operations teams to ensure successful installation and commissioning of optical equipment.
• Evaluate new optical technologies and vendors to identify potential improvements and cost savings.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and best practices for optical network deployment and operation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in optical network design, deployment, and operations within a telecom environment.
• Strong understanding of DWDM, OTN, SDH/SONET, and carrier Ethernet technologies.
• Proficiency with optical testing equipment and fiber characterization tools.
• Experience with network management systems (NMS) and element management systems (EMS) for optical networks.
• Knowledge of optical amplifier technologies (EDFA, RAMAN) and fiber optic cabling standards.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
• Experience in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal or similar high-density urban network environments is an advantage.
• Relevant certifications from vendors like Ciena, Nokia, or Cisco are preferred.

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and provident fund, and excellent opportunities for continuous learning and career advancement.
• You will work in a stimulating environment with a focus on technological innovation in Durban.
• The role offers a Hybrid working model, blending in-office collaboration with remote flexibility.