Senior Radio Access Network (RAN) Engineer

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical/retirement benefits

Company vehicle

Tools and equipment provided

Career development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Senior Radio Access Network (RAN) Engineer for on-site operations in Upington, Northern Cape. The role focuses on deployment, optimization, and maintenance of the mobile network’s radio infrastructure to ensure QoS and KPI attainment.

The ideal candidate has 6+ years in RAN, deep knowledge of LTE/VoLTE and foundational 5G principles, plus hands-on experience with drive testing and RAN planning tools. Travel to sites is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in Radio Access Network (RAN) engineering.
• In-depth knowledge of RAN technologies, including LTE, VoLTE, and foundational 5G principles.
• Experience with RAN planning, performance analysis, and optimization tools.
• Proficiency in troubleshooting RAN hardware and software issues.

Responsibilities

• Deploy, configure, and commission new RAN sites and equipment (e.g., base stations, antennas, microwave links).
• Perform regular performance monitoring, tuning, and optimization of the RAN to meet KPIs.
• Troubleshoot and resolve RAN-related hardware and software issues, including interference, coverage, and capacity problems.
• Conduct drive testing and site surveys to assess network performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Implement software upgrades and patches for RAN equipment.
• Ensure adherence to network design standards, quality guidelines, and safety procedures.
• Collaborate with network planning, core network, and operations teams to ensure seamless integration and performance.
• Provide technical support and guidance to junior RAN engineers and technicians.
• Generate detailed reports on network performance, issues, and resolution activities.
• Stay updated on the latest RAN technologies (e.g., 4G LTE Advanced, 5G NR) and industry best practices.

Skills

RAN engineering

LTE/VoLTE

5G concepts

Drive testing

RF principles

Troubleshooting

Teamwork

Travel readiness

Communication

Education

Bachelor's in Electrical/Telecom Eng

Tools

Drive testing tools

RAN planning tools

Performance analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent telecommunications operator, is seeking an experienced Senior Radio Access Network (RAN) Engineer to join their field operations team. This role is crucial for the deployment, optimization, and maintenance of our mobile network's radio infrastructure. You will be responsible for ensuring the performance, reliability, and quality of service across our RAN, working with cutting-edge technologies to deliver seamless mobile communication. This is an on-site position requiring active involvement in field activities and problem-solving. We are looking for a hands‑on engineer with a deep understanding of RAN principles and a commitment to technical excellence. Your expertise will be vital in maintaining and enhancing our mobile network capabilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Deploy, configure, and commission new RAN sites and equipment (e.g., base stations, antennas, microwave links).
• Perform regular performance monitoring, tuning, and optimization of the RAN to meet KPIs.
• Troubleshoot and resolve RAN‑related hardware and software issues, including interference, coverage, and capacity problems.
• Conduct drive testing and site surveys to assess network performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Implement software upgrades and patches for RAN equipment.
• Ensure adherence to network design standards, quality guidelines, and safety procedures.
• Collaborate with network planning, core network, and operations teams to ensure seamless integration and performance.
• Provide technical support and guidance to junior RAN engineers and technicians.
• Generate detailed reports on network performance, issues, and resolution activities.
• Stay updated on the latest RAN technologies (e.g., 4G LTE Advanced, 5G NR) and industry best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in Radio Access Network (RAN) engineering.
• In‑depth knowledge of RAN technologies, including LTE, VoLTE, and foundational 5G principles.
• Experience with RAN planning, performance analysis, and optimization tools.
• Proficiency in troubleshooting RAN hardware and software issues.
• Familiarity with RF principles, antenna systems, and propagation modeling.
• Experience with drive testing tools and techniques.
• Strong problem‑solving and analytical skills.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities.
• Willingness to travel to various sites within the designated region and work flexible hours when required.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package and comprehensive benefits, including medical insurance, a retirement fund, and opportunities for professional development and training.
• This is a full‑time, on‑site role based in Upington, Northern Cape, ZA.
• We provide a company vehicle, fuel card, and all necessary tools and equipment for field operations.
• Employees benefit from a supportive team environment and opportunities for career advancement within a leading telecommunications company.
• Join our team and contribute to delivering reliable mobile services.