Senior Radio Access Network (RAN) Engineer

Placements24; Randfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Health insurance

Retirement benefits

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Senior Radio Access Network (RAN) Engineer to join a major telecom operator in Rustenburg, North West, ZA. The role focuses on planning, implementing, and optimizing 4G/LTE and 5G RAN networks to ensure high availability, performance, and coverage across the region.

The ideal candidate will bring deep RAN knowledge, vendor experience (Ericsson, Huawei, Nokia), and strong analytical and collaborative skills for cross-functional projects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field.
• Minimum 6 years of RAN engineering experience in the telecoms industry.
• Strong knowledge of 4G/LTE and 5G RAN principles, NSA/SA.
• Experience with Ericsson, Huawei, Nokia RAN equipment.
• Proficiency in planning tools, performance analysis software, RF planning.
• Experience with drive testing tools and post-processing analysis.
• Understanding of mobile network security principles.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a team (Rustenburg).

Responsibilities

• Plan, deploy, and optimize RAN sites and equipment to meet coverage and capacity targets.
• Perform drive testing and performance analysis to identify and resolve network issues.
• Configure and troubleshoot RAN elements, ensuring seamless integration with the core network.
• Develop and implement network optimization strategies to enhance user experience and service quality.
• Collaborate with planning and design teams on network expansion projects.
• Stay updated with the latest RAN technologies, standards (3GPP), and vendor roadmaps.
• Manage vendor relationships for RAN equipment and services.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and company policies during network operations.
• Provide technical support and guidance to field operations teams.

Skills

RAN engineering

4G/LTE

5G

Vendor equipment

RF planning

Drive testing

Network security

Analytical skills

Communication

Education

Electrical/Elect Telecommunications degree

Tools

Drive testing tools

RF planning software

Performance analysis software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major telecommunications operator, is seeking an experienced Senior Radio Access Network (RAN) Engineer to join their technical team. This position, located in Rustenburg, North West, ZA, focuses on the planning, implementation, and optimization of the company's mobile network infrastructure. You will play a crucial role in ensuring the high availability, performance, and coverage of our telecoms services across the region. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of RAN technologies, including 4G/LTE and 5G, and a passion for driving network excellence in the Rustenburg area.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, deploy, and optimize RAN sites and equipment (e.g., base stations, antennas) to meet network coverage and capacity targets.
• Perform drive testing and performance analysis to identify and resolve network issues.
• Configure and troubleshoot RAN elements, ensuring seamless integration with the core network.
• Develop and implement network optimization strategies to enhance user experience and service quality.
• Collaborate with planning and design teams on network expansion projects.
• Stay updated with the latest RAN technologies, standards (3GPP), and vendor roadmaps.
• Manage vendor relationships for RAN equipment and services.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and company policies during network operations.
• Provide technical support and guidance to field operations teams.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in Radio Access Network (RAN) engineering, specifically within the telecoms industry.
• Strong knowledge of 4G/LTE and 5G RAN principles, architecture, and technologies (e.g., NSA, SA).
• Experience with RAN equipment from major vendors (e.g., Ericsson, Huawei, Nokia).
• Proficiency in network planning tools, performance analysis software, and RF planning principles.
• Experience with drive testing tools and post-processing analysis.
• Understanding of mobile network security principles.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team in Rustenburg.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health insurance, and retirement benefits for employees in Rustenburg, North West, ZA. We provide excellent opportunities for professional growth, including specialized training and the chance to work on pioneering 5G projects. Join a forward-thinking company that is shaping the future of mobile communication in South Africa. You will be part of a dedicated team focused on innovation and network leadership within the telecoms sector. The hybrid work model allows for flexibility while maintaining strong team collaboration.