Organization Name: Powertel Communications (Pvt) Limited
The job exists to design, implement, and maintain Powertel’s IP network infrastructure, ensuring secure, reliable, and high-performance connectivity across the Company’s network.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Harare
- Category: IT & Network Administration
- Closing Date: 2026-08-03
Key Responsibilities
- Designs, implements, and supports scalable IP connectivity solutions for enterprise client branch networks (e.g., MPLS, L2/ L3VPNs, IPsec, GRE).
- Deploys, manages, and optimizes the Cisco SD-WAN environment to deliver managed branch services to enterprise customers.
- Supports the delivery and provisioning of wholesale internet, IP Transit, and Dedicated Internet Access (DIA) to ISPs and large corporate clients.
- Oversees IP routing, transit, and peering strategies for international internet backhaul via undersea cable landings.
- Manages and optimizes the IP layer running over the national DWDM optical fibre backbone.
- Provides IP routing and transport engineering support for the national LTE core and RAN infrastructure.
- Configures, maintains, and troubleshoots Cisco devices, ensuring seamless IP routing and optimal traffic engineering using BGP, OSPF, ISIS and Segment Routing/MPLS across national and international links.
- Implements network hardening guidelines, access control lists (ACLs), and DDoS mitigation strategies to protect the IP gateway and core infrastructure.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree in Telecommunications Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field.
- Registration with the Zimbabwe Institution of Engineers (ZIE) or recognised professional body.
- Valid Class 4 Zimbabwe Driver’s Licence.
- Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Enterprise or Service Provider (CCIE is highly advantageous).
- Certification Cisco SD-WAN training (e.g., Cisco 300-415 ENSDWI or equivalent proven hands-on expertise).
- Four years relevant experience in a Telecom, ISP, or large Enterprise environment.
- Proficiency in Cisco Internet Gateway Routers, Enterprise/SP switches, and Security Appliances.
- Solid working knowledge of core routing protocols (BGP, OSPF, ISIS) and transport protocols (MPLS, L2VPN/L3VPN, SR, IPsec).
- Hands-on familiarity with IP transport integration over DWDM/ OTN networks and LTE IP backhaul architectures.
- Experience with network monitoring and management tools (e.g., SolarWinds, PRTG, Zabbix, Cisco vManage, Wireshark).
- Analytical and Problem-solving skills
- Complex troubleshooting skills
- Ability to work under pressure and tight operational deadlines.
- Communication and interpersonal skills
How to Apply
Deadline Date: 31 July 2024. Email: [email protected]. Submission Address: The Human Resources Manager, Powertel Communications (Pvt) Limited, 16 Birmingham Road, Southerton, HARARE. Instructions: Interested and suitably qualified candidates should send clearly labelled applications indicating position applied for. All applications must include certified copies of academic and professional certificates accompanied by a detailed curriculum vitae.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical educational qualifications and certifications expected for a Senior IP Networks Engineer in Zimbabwe?
A degree in Telecommunications, Computer Science, or Electrical Engineering is usually required, often coupled with advanced industry certifications like CCIE, JNCIE, or equivalent. Practical experience with various IP network protocols, security solutions, and network design principles is also crucial for this senior role.
What would be the common day-to-day responsibilities for a Senior IP Networks Engineer in a telecommunications environment?
You would be responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining complex IP network infrastructure, ensuring high availability and performance for critical services. This also includes troubleshooting intricate network issues, optimizing network security, and providing technical guidance to junior engineers.
What are the typical work culture and expectations for a Senior IP Networks Engineer in a Zimbabwean parastatal or large corporation?
Expect a professional and structured environment with a strong emphasis on reliability, problem-solving, and adherence to established protocols, often requiring adaptability to resource constraints. Team collaboration, proactive system monitoring, and a commitment to maintaining critical national infrastructure are highly valued traits.
What are the realistic career progression paths for a Senior IP Networks Engineer in Zimbabwe?
You could advance into leadership roles such as Network Architect, Principal Engineer, or Head of Department, overseeing larger teams and strategic network planning and implementation. Opportunities also exist to specialize further in areas like cybersecurity, cloud networking, or infrastructure development within the sector.
What kind of benefits package, such as medical aid, pension, and leave, can one generally expect for a senior engineering role in Zimbabwe?
A comprehensive package typically includes standard benefits like medical aid, pension contributions, and annual leave, often with sick leave and potentially maternity/paternity leave. The specific details and extent of these benefits can vary significantly between different employers and parastatals.
When applying for a Senior IP Networks Engineer role in Zimbabwe, what do employers typically look for in terms of skills and application presentation?
Employers seek demonstrable technical expertise in IP networking, strong problem-solving abilities, and proven experience managing critical infrastructure within a demanding environment. A well-structured CV highlighting your advanced certifications, project leadership experience, and strategic thinking capabilities is essential for consideration.