Organization Name: Powertel Communications (Pvt) Limited
The Senior Radio Access Network Engineer is responsible for planning, deploying, integrating, optimising and maintaining Powertel’s LTE and 5G Radio Access Network to ensure adequate coverage, capacity, availability and customer experience.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Harare
- Category: Engineering
- Closing Date: 2026-08-03
Key Responsibilities
- Plans LTE and 5G radio coverage, capacity and network expansion based on traffic growth and business requirements.
- Conducts RF planning, propagation analysis, interference analysis and site surveys.
- Identifies and assesses suitable locations for base station deployment.
- Develops frequency plans, radio designs, technical specifications and bills of quantities.
- Recommends solutions to improve coverage, quality and network capacity.
- Installs, configures, commissions and integrates LTE eNodeBs and future 5G gNodeBs.
- Configures radio cells, frequencies, power levels, neighbour relations and handover parameters.
- Integrates radio sites with the mobile core through fibre, microwave and IP transmission networks.
- Coordinates site acceptance testing, software upgrades, patching and network migrations.
- Commissions indoor and outdoor radio network infrastructure.
- Monitors RAN and core network performance using network management and optimisation systems.
- Analyses accessibility, retainability, mobility, throughput, coverage and availability KPIs.
- Optimises radio parameters, handovers, neighbour relations, traffic distribution and capacity.
- Conducts drive tests, coverage analysis and interference investigations.
- Investigates customer complaints and implements corrective network improvements.
- Monitors network alarms and diagnoses faults affecting radio sites and customer services.
- Restores services within defined SLAs and coordinates resolution of complex faults.
- Performs preventive maintenance, equipment inspections and software health checks.
- Monitors site power, batteries, grounding, cooling and environmental systems.
- Escalates vendor-related faults and supports emergency network restoration.
- Maintains accurate configuration, maintenance, fault and operational records.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree in Telecommunications, Electronic, Electrical or Computer Engineering, or a related discipline.
- Registration with the Zimbabwe Institution of Engineers or another recognised professional body.
- Valid Class 4 Zimbabwe Driver’s Licence.
- At least four years’ relevant experience in LTE or 5G RAN planning, deployment, optimisation or operations.
- Practical experience in RF planning, base station integration, radio optimisation and transmission connectivity.
- Experience with ZTE LTE/5G RAN or an equivalent vendor platform is an added advantage.
- Strong analytical and radio-network troubleshooting skills.
- Sound understanding of LTE and 5G radio principles.
- Ability to conduct RF planning, site surveys and performance analysis.
- Ability to work independently and under pressure.
- Good communication, documentation and project coordination skills.
- Customer-focused and results-oriented approach.
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 qualifications and certifications required for a Senior RAN Engineer role in Zimbabwe?
A relevant degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or Computer Science is essential. Industry certifications like Huawei HCIA/P-RAN, Ericsson Certified Associate/Professional, or Nokia SRC are highly valued and often expected. Practical experience with 2G/3G/4G/5G technologies and network optimization is also crucial.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities for a Senior Radio Access Network Engineer in Zimbabwe?
Day-to-day tasks involve monitoring network performance, troubleshooting complex RAN issues, and implementing network upgrades and expansions. You will also be responsible for optimizing network parameters to ensure quality service and collaborating with cross-functional teams.
What is the typical work culture and what are the expectations for a Senior RAN Engineer in Zimbabwean telecommunication companies?
The work culture often emphasizes resourcefulness, problem-solving under pressure, and adaptability due to potential resource constraints. Expect to be part of a close-knit team, requiring strong collaboration and a commitment to maintaining critical national infrastructure.
What are the typical career progression paths for a Senior RAN Engineer within a Zimbabwean telecom company?
After this role, common paths include moving into management as a RAN Team Lead or Network Operations Manager. Specialization into areas like 5G planning, network architecture, or core network engineering are also viable growth options.
What kind of benefits package can a Senior RAN Engineer typically expect from a Zimbabwean telecom employer?
Standard benefits generally include medical aid, pension contributions, and annual leave as per national labor laws. Some employers may also offer transport allowances or performance-based bonuses, depending on company policy and financial performance.
When applying for this role in Zimbabwe, what do employers typically look for in a candidate's application and interview?
Employers seek demonstrable practical experience with relevant technologies, strong troubleshooting skills, and a proven track record of successful project implementation. During interviews, emphasize your problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and understanding of the local telecommunications landscape.