Radio Network Planner

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private medical aid

Provident fund

Paid annual leave

Hybrid work arrangement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Radio Network Planner for a client in the Cape Town region with hybrid work in Paarl. You will plan, design, and optimise the radio access network to ensure coverage, capacity and QoS for mobile subscribers.

You will analyse performance data and drive test results, developing expansion strategies using Atoll and Planet. Collaborate with RF engineers and operations teams to achieve network objectives and stay ahead with evolving technologies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, Computer Science, or related field.
• 4–6 years of experience in radio network planning and optimization in mobile operators.
• Proficiency with Atoll, Planet, or similar planning tools.
• Strong knowledge of 2G/3G/4G/LTE and 5G RAN technologies.
• Experience with drive test analysis and post-processing tools.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and data-reporting skills.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work in a hybrid model with occasional Paarl office attendance.
• Knowledge of RF propagation and antennas.

Responsibilities

• Plan and design radio network expansions and upgrades to meet capacity and coverage needs.
• Use Atoll and Planet to simulate performance and optimize cell parameters.
• Analyze drive test data, KPIs, and customer feedback to identify issues.
• Prepare technical proposals for new site deployments and rollouts.
• Collaborate with site acquisition teams to identify and secure base station locations.
• Ensure regulatory compliance and industry standards.
• Monitor network performance and report trends and KPIs.
• Provide guidance to RF engineering and operations teams.
• Stay updated on RAN tech advancements and best practices.
• Contribute to long-term strategic network planning.

Skills

Radio network planning

Analytical thinking

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering/Telecommunications

Tools

Atoll

Planet

Drive test tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent telecommunications operator, is seeking a skilled Radio Network Planner to join their Cape Town operations. This role is hybrid, requiring a balance of remote work and presence in the office in Paarl, Western Cape. You will be responsible for the planning, design, and optimization of the company's radio access network (RAN) to ensure optimal coverage, capacity, and quality of service for mobile subscribers. This involves analyzing network performance data, identifying areas for improvement, and developing strategies for network expansion and upgrades. The ideal candidate possesses a strong technical background in mobile network technologies (e.g., 4G/LTE, 5G), excellent analytical skills, and proficiency with network planning tools. You will work closely with RF engineers, operations teams, and other stakeholders to achieve network objectives. This position offers a dynamic environment where you can contribute to the evolution of mobile communication infrastructure in the region. Our client values strategic thinking and a proactive approach to network development.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and design radio network expansions and upgrades to meet growing capacity and coverage demands.
• Utilize network planning tools (e.g., Atoll, Planet) to simulate network performance and optimize cell parameters.
• Analyze drive test data, KPIs, and customer feedback to identify network issues and areas for improvement.
• Develop detailed technical proposals for new site deployments and technology rollouts.
• Collaborate with site acquisition teams to identify and secure suitable locations for new base stations.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards.
• Monitor network performance metrics and report on key trends and performance indicators.
• Provide technical guidance and support to RF engineering and operational teams.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in radio access network technologies and industry best practices.
• Contribute to long-term strategic network planning initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4-6 years of experience in radio network planning and optimization within a mobile network operator environment.
• Proficiency with radio network planning tools such as Atoll, Planet, or similar.
• Strong understanding of 2G, 3G, 4G/LTE, and 5G radio access network technologies.
• Experience with drive test analysis and post-processing tools.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and quantitative skills.
• Proficiency in data analysis and reporting.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively in a hybrid work model, requiring occasional attendance at our Paarl, Western Cape office.
• Knowledge of RF propagation principles and antenna systems.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including private medical aid, a provident fund, and paid annual leave. You will benefit from a hybrid work arrangement, offering flexibility between remote work and collaboration in the office located in Paarl, Western Cape. Opportunities for professional development, attending industry conferences, and obtaining advanced certifications are available. Join a dynamic and innovative team focused on building the future of mobile connectivity. Performance bonuses are awarded based on individual and team contributions to network performance goals. We provide a supportive work environment that values collaboration and continuous improvement. The company offers exposure to cutting-edge mobile technologies and the chance to make a significant impact on network quality.