Job Description

When it comes to putting people first, we're number 1.
The number 1 Top Employer in South Africa.
Certified by the Top Employer Institute 2025.
Role Purpose/Business Unit:
The main objective of Strategic Network Optimization is to orchestrate network tactics and strategies aimed at increasing network and RAN efficiency and performance. The role also entails driving and implementing various activities and special projects to improve network quality through optimization of Radio Access Network (RAN) and RATs(GSM, UMTS,LTE and NR). The role entails the incumbent embraces the use of modern approaches and best global practices mainly in the RAN domain for maximum impact.
Your responsibilities will include:

• Review and optimize RAN network strategies, parameters, features, and best practices to enhance overall effectiveness and efficiency.
• Ensure adoption of global best practices and adapt them where applicable for optimal RAN system performance within South Africa.
• Drive proactive stakeholder engagements (optimisation and vendor meetings), propose feature and parameter enhancements in the SON and RAN space for improved efficiencies
• Assist to develop AI/ML RAN optimisation portfolio and build capacity in data driven analytics for strategic RAN optimization activities using PyTorch, TensorFlow, LangChain, Tidymodels, MLR3 etc.
• Give cross functional support to regions in terms of in-depth network analysis, accelerate fault resolution, and assist in CxO escalations of RAN issues and investigations.

The ideal candidate for this role will have:

• 3 year degree/diploma in electronic or telecommunication, equivalent or higher.

Core competencies, knowledge, and experience:

• Minimum of 2 to 5 years relevant GSM and UMTS experience (inclusive of 1-2 years LTE experience) is essential
• Minimum of 2 to 5 years working experience within Radio Planning and Optimisation (Essential)
• Experience with UMTS/LTE technologies would be advantageous (Desirable)
• Telecommunications (GSM & UTRAN) courses essential

We make an impact by offering:

• Enticing incentive programs and competitive benefit packages
• Retirement funds, risk benefits, and medical aid benefits
• Cell phone and data benefits, advantages fibre connection discounts, and exclusive staff discounts offered in collaboration with partner companies

Closing date for Applications: 22 August 2025
The base location for this role is Midrand, Vodacom Campus
The company's approved Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered as part of the recruitment process. As an Equal Opportunities employer, we actively encourage and welcome people with various disabilities to apply.
Vodacom is committed to an organisational culture that recognises, appreciates, and values diversity & inclusion.
Commitment from Vodacom
Vodacom is committed to attracting, developing and retaining the very best people by offering a flexible, motivating and inclusive workplace in which talent is truly recognized, developed and rewarded. We believe that diversity plays an important role in the success of our business and we are committed to creating an inclusive work environment which respects, values, celebrates and makes the most of people's individual differences - we are not only multinational but multicultural too. At Vodacom you will have access to our excellent flexible benefits programme that you would expect from any global company.