Job Description

An experienced RF Designer is needed to contribute to the design, dimensioning, link budget analysis, hardware dimensioning, and application of propagation models in wireless communication networks (2G/4G/5G). The successful candidate will ensure network performance, coverage, and quality, while providing technical leadership and interfacing with customers to ensure the fulfillment of network design requirements.

Responsibilities:

RF Network Design (2G/4G/5G):

• Plan and design wireless networks across different technologies (2G/4G/5G), focusing on coverage, capacity, and quality of service.
• Evaluate network performance through KPIs and metrics, and propose design modifications to meet evolving service demands.
• Prepare detailed RF designs, including coverage maps, frequency plans, and sector configurations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g., Planning, optimization and operations) to ensure smooth integration of network designs.
• Perform parameter tuning to achieve optimal network performance based on coverage, capacity, and user experience.

RF Network Dimensioning:

• Conduct network dimensioning to estimate the required network capacity, considering traffic forecasts, subscriber growth, and data demand.
• Analyze and calculate the number of cells, sites, and sectors needed for network expansion and ensure effective resource allocation.
• Use dimensioning tools to forecast radio resources (e.g., channels, bandwidth, antennas) necessary to support user traffic.
• Identify potential bottlenecks in network capacity and propose solutions for scaling.

Link Budget Analysis:

• Perform detailed link budget calculations to balance between network coverage, capacity, and quality.
• Ensure that the network design meets specific signal level thresholds, taking into account factors such as transmission power, antenna gains, path loss, and noise margins.
• Consider various deployment environments (urban, suburban, rural) and propagation effects (e.g., fading, shadowing) when performing link budgets.
• Continuously optimize link budgets based on real-world performance data and drive test results.

Propagation Models and Radio Wave Propagation Theory:

• Apply theory of propagation models such as Hata, COST-231, Okumura, or custom models tailored to the deployment environment.
• Simulate and analyze signal propagation in various environments, including urban, rural, and indoor scenarios.
• Account for factors such as building obstructions, terrain, and weather when modeling radio wave behavior.
• Use propagation models to optimize site locations, antenna heights, and azimuths to achieve maximum coverage and minimal interference.

RF Design Tools Proficiency:

• Utilize industry-standard RF design tools such as Atoll, Planet, Mentum, or similar software for network simulation and analysis.
• Develop, update, and maintain RF models and network databases within design tools.
• Use tool features such as coverage prediction, traffic analysis, and interference checking to refine network designs.
• Generate detailed reports and documentation of RF design deliverables for internal use and client presentation.

Collaboration and Cross-Team Communication:

• Work closely with other teams, such as RAN engineering, field operations, and network planning, to ensure that designs are implemented effectively.
• Provide technical support and guidance to junior engineers or field teams during network rollout and troubleshooting phases.
• Actively participate in cross-functional discussions and contribute to the overall improvement of network performance.

Technology and Industry Knowledge:

• Stay updated on the latest wireless communication technologies and industry standards, including emerging 5G advancements, network slicing, and IoT use cases.
• Apply knowledge of protocols such as LTE, WCDMA, GSM, and 5G NR to the design and optimization of networks.
• Understand regulatory requirements and spectrum allocation rules in different markets.

Hardware Dimensioning Based on RF Requirements:

• Analyze hardware requirements based on RF design, including the selection and specification of hardware components such as antennas, amplifiers, and transmission equipment.
• Ensure proper dimensioning of base station hardware, including transceivers (TRXs), remote radio units (RRUs), and power supplies, to meet RF design parameters.
• Collaborate with the procurement and deployment teams to ensure the right hardware is procured and installed to support network design specifications.
• Conduct audits and evaluations to ensure that hardware deployment aligns with RF design needs, and recommend upgrades or adjustments when necessary.

Leadership and Team Collaboration:

• Provide technical leadership and mentoring to junior engineers in RF design principles, network optimization, and drive test analysis.
• Lead design review meetings and collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including implementation, field operations, and maintenance teams.
• Oversee and manage multiple RF design projects, ensuring timely completion and adherence to customer and project requirements.

Customer Interface Skills:

• Interface with customers to gather network requirements, address design concerns, and provide technical explanations regarding RF design and optimization.
• Collaborate with customer representatives to ensure network designs meet or exceed expectations in terms of performance, coverage, and quality.
• Present technical solutions and reports to clients, addressing their questions and ensuring alignment with their business goals.
• Act as a liaison between the customer and internal teams to communicate network performance feedback and propose improvement actions.

Technology and Industry Knowledge:

• Stay updated on the latest technologies and industry standards, including 5G advancements, network slicing, and IoT.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory and spectrum allocation rules, and apply knowledge of protocols such as LTE, WCDMA, GSM, and 5G NR to the design and optimization of networks.

Requirements:

1. Educational Background:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electronics, Telecommunications Engineering, or a related field.
• Master’s degree is a plus.

2. Work Experience:

• At least 5 years of experience in RF design and optimization for mobile networks (2G/4G/5G).
• Proven experience in dimensioning, link budget analysis, hardware dimensioning, and propagation models.
• Experience with network optimization and drive test analysis tools.

3. Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in RF design tools like Atoll, Planet, Mentum, or equivalent.
• Experience in link budget calculations and propagation models such as Hata, COST-231, and Okumura.
• Proven experience with RF network hardware dimensioning, including base station components (antennas, amplifiers, TRXs, RRUs).
• Familiarity with RAN technologies (GSM, LTE, 5G).

4. Leadership Skills:

• Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor junior engineers in RF design, troubleshooting, and optimization processes.
• Strong project management skills to handle multiple RF design projects simultaneously, ensuring deadlines and quality standards are met.

5. Customer Interface Skills:

• Strong communication and presentation skills to effectively interface with customers, explain technical concepts, and present design proposals.
• Ability to work with customers to understand their needs and align the RF design to meet business and performance goals.

6. Analytical and Problem-Solving Abilities:

• Strong analytical skills to interpret data, troubleshoot network issues, and make data-driven decisions.
• Ability to conduct root cause analysis for network problems and propose corrective actions.

7. Soft Skills:

• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Strong teamwork and collaboration abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.