Principal RF Engineer

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,400,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Professional development (training,con

Conference participation

Advanced certifications support

Generous annual leave

Performance-based bonus

Retirement savings fund

Hybrid work model

State-of-the-art lab facilities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Principal RF Engineer to lead RF design and optimization for mobile networks in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. You will guide RF planning, propagation modeling, and testing while mentoring junior engineers on cutting-edge 5G and related wireless standards.

The role demands a Ph.D. or Master's in a related field with 8–10 years of hands-on telecom RF experience, strong analytical skills, and leadership capabilities to drive innovation in the telecoms

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or RF Engineering.
• 8–10 years hands-on RF engineering experience in telecoms.
• Expertise in RF design, antennas, propagation models and link budgets.
• Proficiency with RF test equipment and standard tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and optimization of RF systems for mobile networks.
• Perform RF planning, site acquisition support and network optimization.
• Model RF propagation and run simulations with industry tools.
• Develop RF test procedures and mentor junior engineers.

Skills

RF system design

Antenna theory

Propagation models

Link budget analysis

RF test procedures

Mentoring

Technical leadership

Education

Ph.D. or Master's in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Atoll

Planet

Pathloss

Spectrum analyzers

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in the telecommunications industry, is actively seeking a highly experienced Principal RF Engineer to join their esteemed team in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This senior role is critical for advancing the company's radio frequency technology and ensuring optimal performance of wireless communication systems. You will be instrumental in the design, analysis, and optimization of RF networks, contributing significantly to the development of next-generation mobile technologies. The position offers a unique opportunity to work on challenging projects in a rapidly evolving sector, with a focus on 5G and future wireless standards. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of RF principles, propagation, and antenna systems, coupled with a strong analytical and problem-solving acumen. As a Principal RF Engineer in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, you will also provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers, driving excellence and innovation within the telecoms department. Your expertise will be key in maintaining and enhancing our client's competitive edge in the market.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of Radio Frequency (RF) systems and components for mobile networks.
• Conduct in-depth RF planning, site acquisition support, and network optimization activities.
• Perform RF propagation modeling and simulations using industry-standard tools.
• Analyze RF performance data and implement solutions to improve network coverage, capacity, and quality.
• Develop and validate RF test procedures and equipment.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in RF technology, including 5G NR, LTE-A, and other wireless standards.
• Collaborate with hardware and software development teams to ensure seamless integration of RF components.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex RF-related issues in live network environments.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior RF engineers and technical staff.
• Contribute to the company's intellectual property portfolio through innovation and patent filings.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8-10 years of hands‑on experience in RF engineering within the telecommunications industry.
• Expertise in RF system design, antenna theory, propagation models, and link budget analysis.
• Proficiency with RF simulation software (e.g., Atoll, Planet, Pathloss).
• Strong understanding of mobile communication standards, including 3G, 4G/LTE, and 5G NR.
• Experience with RF test equipment (e.g., spectrum analyzers, signal generators).
• Proven ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex RF performance issues.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to lead technical discussions.
• Experience with phased array antennas and beamforming techniques is a significant plus.
• Demonstrated leadership qualities and experience mentoring technical teams.

Benefits

• Our client offers a leading salary package, complemented by comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Employees have access to extensive professional development opportunities, including specialized training courses, conference participation, and support for advanced certifications.
• A generous annual leave allowance and a performance-based bonus structure are provided.
• The company fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration, with ample opportunities for career progression within the telecoms sector.
• A retirement savings fund and other employee wellness programs are available.
• This role is based in the vibrant city of Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, offering a fantastic lifestyle.
• Potential for international assignments on specific projects may arise.
• The hybrid work model provides a healthy work-life balance.
• Access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and testing equipment is guaranteed.