Network Optimization Engineer Telecommunications

Position:
Network Optimization Engineer

Company: MTN Group

Location:

Cape Town, South Africa

Experience:

Minimum 5 years of network planning and optimization experience

Education:

BSc in Electrical/Electronic Engineering or related field

Employment Type:

Full-time

Industry: Telecommunications

Department:
Network Engineering

Salary: SSP 450,000 – SSP 650,000 per annum

Vacancies:1

MTN Group is a leading multinational telecommunications provider with a strong presence across Africa and the Middle East. In South Africa, MTN delivers mobile voice, data, and digital services to millions of customers, driving connectivity and innovation. The company is committed to sustainable growth, community development, and cutting‑edge technology deployment. As part of its strategic expansion, MTN continuously invests in network optimization to enhance service quality, reduce latency, and support the growing demand for high‑speed data.

Joining MTN means becoming part of a dynamic team that shapes the future of digital communication in South Africa and beyond, offering robust career pathways and a culture that values diversity, inclusion, and continuous learning. This role contributes directly to MTN’s mission of delivering seamless connectivity, making it an exciting opportunity for professionals seeking impactful work in the telecommunications sector.

The Network Optimization Engineer will lead the design, analysis, and implementation of optimization strategies for MTN’s 4G and emerging 5G networks across the Cape Town region. The role involves close collaboration with radio planning, core network, and field operations teams to ensure optimal network performance, capacity planning, and quality of service. You will use advanced analytics, drive KPI improvements, and support the rollout of new technologies.

This position offers a unique platform to influence network excellence while advancing your career within a globally recognized telecom leader. For more information about MTN’s career opportunities, visit South Africa Job Search.

• Analyze network performance data to identify bottlenecks, coverage gaps, and capacity constraints.
• Develop and implement optimization plans for radio access and core network elements, focusing on throughput, latency, and reliability.
• Collaborate with radio planning and engineering teams to refine site configurations, antenna tilts, and power settings.
• Utilize drive‑test tools, network simulators, and AI‑based analytics platforms to validate optimization outcomes.
• Prepare detailed technical reports and present findings to senior management and cross‑functional stakeholders.
• Support the integration and optimization of 5G  (New Radio) technologies, ensuring seamless migration from legacy networks.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions to meet service level agreements (SLAs).
• Participate in network audits, troubleshooting sessions, and emergency response activities.

• Strong knowledge of LTE and 5G network architecture, protocols, and optimization techniques.
• Proficiency with network analysis tools such as Atoll, Planet, TEMS, or similar.
• Advanced data analytics skills, including experience with Python, R, or MATLAB for KPI modeling.
• Excellent problem‑solving abilities and a data‑driven mindset.
• Effective communication skills for cross‑team collaboration and stakeholder reporting.
• Project management experience with the ability to prioritize multiple initiatives.

A bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications Engineering, Computer Science, or a closely related discipline is required. Professional certifications such as Cisco CCNP, Nokia NRS, or equivalent are advantageous.