Principal Telecom Systems Engineer

Placements24; Randburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive compensation

Health, dental, vision plans

Stock options or equity grants

Generous PTO and flexible hours

Professional development budget

Fully remote work arrangement

Global engineering network

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Telecom Systems Engineer to lead architecture and implementation of complex telecom platforms. This remote-first role emphasizes strategic thinking, hands-on design, and mentoring senior engineers across global teams.

You will define technical roadmaps, oversee technology integration, and ensure scalable, reliable systems while collaborating with product management and operations in a fully remote, international environment.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Electrical or Computer Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years in telecommunications systems engineering focused on architecture and design.
• Strong leadership, communication, and remote-team management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and architecture of large-scale telecom systems.
• Define roadmaps and strategies for system evolution.
• Mentor engineers and guide cross-functional teams.
• Oversee integration of new technologies and platforms.

Skills

Telecom architecture

Leadership

Remote team leadership

Analytical thinking

Strategic planning

Education

Master's degree in Electrical/Computer Engineering

Tools

IP networking

4G/5G core

Cloud-native architectures

SDN/NFV

System modeling tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in the telecommunications industry, is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Telecom Systems Engineer to join their fully remote, world-class engineering team. This senior role demands extensive expertise in the architecture, design, and implementation of complex telecommunications systems. You will lead critical projects, define technical strategies, and mentor engineering staff, driving innovation across our client's cutting-edge platforms. As a remote-first organization, we embrace a collaborative and autonomous work culture, leveraging advanced virtual tools to foster seamless teamwork. Your contributions will be instrumental in shaping the future of telecom technology, ensuring scalability, reliability, and performance excellence. This is a unique opportunity for a seasoned engineer to leverage their deep technical knowledge and leadership skills in a challenging and rewarding environment, making a substantial impact from anywhere in **South Africa**.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and architecture of complex, large-scale telecommunications systems and solutions.
• Define technical roadmaps and strategies for system evolution and innovation.
• Oversee the implementation and integration of new technologies and platforms.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to engineering teams.
• Conduct in-depth performance analysis, troubleshooting, and optimization of critical systems.
• Develop and maintain system design documentation, standards, and best practices.
• Collaborate with product management, R&D, and operations teams to ensure alignment and successful delivery.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and assess their potential impact and applicability.
• Identify and mitigate technical risks associated with system design and implementation.
• Represent the company in technical discussions with partners and industry forums.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in telecommunications systems engineering, with a strong focus on architecture and design.
• Deep expertise in areas such as IP networking, mobile core (4G/5G), VoIP, cloud-native architectures, and software-defined networking (SDN/NFV).
• Proven track record of successfully leading and delivering complex, large-scale telecom projects.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills.
• Outstanding leadership, communication, and interpersonal abilities, essential for leading a remote team.
• Experience with system modeling, simulation, and performance analysis tools.
• Familiarity with project management methodologies and agile development practices.
• Demonstrated ability to influence technical direction and drive innovation.
• Ability to work effectively in a fully remote, collaborative environment.

Benefits

• Executive-level compensation package, including base salary and significant performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous stock options or equity grants.
• Extensive paid time off and flexible working hours.
• Significant budget for professional development, conferences, and certifications.
• Fully remote work arrangement, fostering work-life balance.
• Cutting-edge technology stack and challenging technical problems.
• Retirement savings plan with generous company match.
• Access to a global network of engineering talent.
• Employee assistance program and wellness benefits.