Senior RF Architect – 5G/LTE & Network Optimization (Remote)

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental/vision insurance

Paid time off

Retirement savings plan

Opportunity to attend internationalCon

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Principal RF Engineer to lead the design, optimization, and evolution of wireless networks from a Durban-based, remote-first position. You will guide RF planning, drive testing, and spectrum management while collaborating with cross-functional teams on next-generation technologies.

The role demands 10+ years in RF engineering within mobile telecom, with strong leadership and excellent communication skills.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field.
• 10+ years hands-on RF engineering experience in mobile telecommunications.
• Deep understanding of wireless propagation, fading, and interference mitigation.
• Proficiency in RF planning tools such as Atoll, Planet.
• Expertise in GSM, UMTS, LTE, and 5G NR.
• Strong antenna theory, RF filter design, and transmission line knowledge.
• Experience with spectrum analysis, measurement equipment, and network simulators.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated leadership and track record of leading technical projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead RF design, simulation, and optimization for macro, micro, and small cell deployments.
• Develop and refine RF planning tools and propagation models to improve coverage.
• Conduct RF site surveys, data analysis, and interference assessments.
• Collaborate with hardware and software teams to define RF requirements.
• Manage RF spectrum allocation and licensing in compliance with regulations.
• Provide expert technical consultation on RF issues to cross-functional teams.
• Develop strategies for 5G and network evolution.
• Perform drive testing and post-processing to assess network quality.
• Author technical documentation and white papers on RF technologies.
• Mentor and train junior RF engineers.

Skills

RF design

Propagation modeling

Spectrum management

5G NR knowledge

Antenna theory

Drive testing

Leadership

Mentoring

Education

Master's or PhD in EE or related

Tools

Atoll

Planet

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Principal RF Engineer to lead the design, optimization, and evolution of wireless networks from a Durban-based, remote-first position. You will guide RF planning, drive testing, and spectrum management while collaborating with cross-functional teams on next-generation technologies.

The role demands 10+ years in RF engineering within mobile telecom, with strong leadership and excellent communication skills.