4G/5G Wireless Network Optimization Engineer

The client is looking for a 4G/5G Wireless Network Optimization Engineer to work a 3 month rolling contract based in South Africa (Johannesburg).

Position Summary:

• The client is seeking a senior-level Wireless Network Optimization Engineer to spearhead end-to-end multi-technology optimization for our 4G LTE and 5G NR networks. Operating from a strategic tier, this individual will take full ownership of RAN performance across the network, driving advanced parameter configurations and deep-dive protocol trace analysis.
• The role requires a technical expert capable of leveraging proprietary ZTE optimization platforms to maximize network quality, handle complex operator escalations, and deliver executive-level performance insights.

Job Responsibilities:

• ZTE RAN Optimization: Analyze and optimize 4G/5G radio network performance using the ZTE product suite to improve overall network quality and customer experience.
• KPI Management & Troubleshooting: Monitor and analyze network KPIs, identify performance degradation, bottlenecks, and interference, and implement corrective optimization actions.
• Protocol & Call Flow Analysis: Apply a strong understanding of call flow, handover flow, mobility management, and wireless communication technologies across CS, VoLTE, and PS RAN to isolate root causes.
• Parameter & Feature Tuning: Perform deep-dive radio network troubleshooting, parameter tuning, and ZTE RAN software feature implementation.
• Data Analysis & Tooling: Perform post-processing using TEMS, ZTE WNG, and analysis through MR-based tools such as NGI, NetMax, and CEMS to identify coverage, quality, and throughput issues, and provide targeted optimization solutions.
• Escalation & Complaints: Investigate high-level customer complaints and provide technical resolutions related to coverage and service quality issues.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate with planning, implementation, transmission, and customer teams to support network modernization and drive continuous network improvement initiatives.
• Reporting & Analytics: Prepare KPI reports, automated dashboards (Power BI/Excel), optimization analysis, and technical presentations for management and stakeholders.

Job Requirements:

• Technical Expertise: Strong expertise in LTE and 5G NR air interface technologies, mobility management, root-cause analysis, and mitigation techniques with a solid understanding of RAN principles.
• ZTE Vendor Expertise: Hands-on experience with proprietary ZTE tools, explicitly UME, NGI, NetMax and WNG, along with ZTE-specific parameter sets and feature configurations.
• Analytics & Software Tools: Proficiency in data analytics and report generation using Microsoft Excel and Power BI, alongside standard optimization tools (TEMS, Nemo, QGIS, or Google Earth).