Senior 5G Network Specialist (Remote)

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Healthcare coverage

Flexible PTO

Professional development

Retirement plan

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior 5G Network Specialist for a fully remote role spanning Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, ZA. You will architect, deploy, and optimize 5G core and RAN components, shaping wireless services from your own workspace.

Requirements include 5–7 years in mobile network engineering with SA/NSA 5G expertise, plus hands-on 5G RAN deployment and cloud-native tooling such as Kubernetes. Join a remote-first team advancing 5G worldwide.

Qualifications

• 5–7 years of mobile network engineering with focus on 5G.
• Deep understanding of SA/NSA 5G core architecture.
• Hands-on 5G RAN (gNB) deployment and optimization.
• Proficiency in IP networking, MPLS, SDN/NFV.

Responsibilities

• Design and manage 5G core functions (AMF/SMF/UPF) and RAN elements.
• Develop deployment, optimization, and capacity strategies.
• Monitor performance and implement QoS improvements.
• Troubleshoot complex 5G issues and perform root cause analysis.
• Collaborate with vendors and stay updated on 3GPP standards.
• Document network designs, configurations and procedures.
• Support integration with existing networks and IT systems.
• Guide junior engineers and cross-functional teams.
• Contribute to 5G service offerings and business use cases.

Skills

5G Core

5G RAN

IP Networking

Cloud-native

Kubernetes

Troubleshooting

Analytics

Communication

Education

Bachelors/Masters in EE/CS/Telecommunications

Tools

Kubernetes

Docker

Network analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in mobile telecommunications, is actively recruiting for a Senior 5G Network Specialist to join their advanced engineering division. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to work from anywhere within Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, ZA, while contributing to the global deployment and optimization of 5G networks. You will be instrumental in shaping the future of wireless communication, focusing on the architecture, deployment, and performance tuning of 5G core and RAN components. This role demands deep expertise in 5G technologies, a proactive approach to problem-solving, and a passion for innovation in a remote-first setting. If you're ready to drive 5G advancements from your own workspace, this is the perfect opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and manage 5G core network functions (AMF, SMF, UPF) and RAN elements.
• Develop and execute strategies for 5G network deployment, optimization, and capacity planning.
• Monitor 5G network performance, identify areas for improvement, and implement solutions to enhance user experience and service quality.
• Troubleshoot complex 5G network issues, perform root cause analysis, and implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate with equipment vendors to integrate new technologies and resolve technical challenges.
• Stay abreast of the latest 3GPP standards, 5G technologies, and industry trends.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive technical documentation, including network designs, configurations, and operational procedures.
• Work closely with other engineering teams to ensure seamless integration of 5G services with existing networks and IT systems.
• Provide technical expertise and guidance to junior engineers and cross-functional teams.
• Contribute to the development of 5G service offerings and business use cases.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Telecommunications, or a related discipline.
• 5-7 years of experience in mobile network engineering, with a strong specialization in 5G technologies.
• In-depth understanding of 5G core network architecture (SA and NSA), including key functions and interfaces.
• Hands-on experience with 5G RAN (gNB) deployment and optimization.
• Knowledge of IP networking, MPLS, SDN, and NFV principles is essential.
• Experience with cloud-native technologies (containers, Kubernetes) is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in network troubleshooting and performance analysis tools.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities, crucial for a remote team environment.
• Relevant 5G certifications or vendor-specific training are a plus.

Benefits

• Attractive annual salary of R per annum.
• Fully remote work arrangement, offering significant flexibility.
• Comprehensive healthcare coverage.
• Generous paid time off and public holidays.
• Opportunities for advanced training and professional development in 5G technologies.
• Work on cutting-edge 5G projects that are shaping the future of connectivity.
• A dynamic and innovative team environment.
• Retirement savings plan.