Senior Specialist Voice and Data Core needed at Vodafone Global Enterprise

Role Purpose/Business Unit:

• Provide expert-level support for all Mobile Voice Core (CS Core), Mobile Data Core (EPC/SPC/5G Core) network technologies, and Mobile Telco over Cloud (TOC) environments across Vodacom Africa Operating Companies.
• This includes planning, engineering, and performance management covering core technologies including, but not limited 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G.
• The role is responsible for the aligning implementation of the Vodacom Group network technology strategy, standards, guidelines, best practices, and the interfacing with Vodafone Technology Group.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Provide planning and engineering support for Mobile Voice core & Mobile Data core and TOC networks across Vodacom Opcos, to ensure optimal practices according to Vodafone/Vodacom technology standards and industry best practices.
• Analysis of Mobile Voice core & Mobile Data core network services including Application, Cloud OS and Infrastructure
• Performance (Availability, Capacity, QoS).
• Support network performance and technology analysis and recommendations to ensure optimal performance.
• Develop, support, and lead network improvement programs across the Vodacom Group.
• Ensure alignment to and maintenance of Vodafone/Vodacom quality standards, resilience, and best practices in the Mobile Voice core, Mobile Data core and TOC networks.
• Develop and maintain network guidelines (design, plan, build, operate, and maintain) and best practices for the Mobile Voice core, Mobile Data core and TOC technology domains.
• Standardize technology, systems, and processes across the Group.
• Support vendor and product selection tasks and benchmarking of Mobile Voice core, Mobile Data core and TOC technologies.
• Conduct network audits, special investigations, and network health checks, providing detailed reports and recommendations.
• Align Group Opcos and Vodafone with respect to strategy, technology evolution, systems, processes, and delivery targets.
• Lead and provide technical support to proof of concepts and innovation programs and projects across the Group.
• Support Group analysis and reporting functions, including Exco analysis requests and progress reports.
• Coordinate and execute Group-level network projects and initiatives across Vodacom Opcos.
• Monitor and evaluate competitive offerings that could impact the Mobile Voice core, Mobile Data core and TOC landscape.

The ideal candidate for this role will have:

• Matric (Essential)
• Minimum 3-year Degree/Diploma 
• Project management fundamentals (Desirable)

Core competencies, knowledge, and experience:

• In-depth planning and engineering knowledge of Mobile Voice core and Mobile Data core network technologies and protocols (2G, 3G, 4G and 5G).
• Good understanding of Mobile Voice core and Mobile Data core network architecture design, implementation, and troubleshooting experience.
• In-depth knowledge of Telco cloud infrastructure (NFVi/CNFVi) and TOC (IAAS, CAAS) protocols including Automation and Orchestration.
• Proven track record in managing the delivery of large programmes/projects.
• At least 5 years in the telecommunications industry, with experience in a medium to large-scale Core network planning and engineering role being advantageous.
• At least 3 years’ experience in Mobile Voice core, Mobile Data core and TOC planning, optimization, performance management, network analysis, technical investigations, research, and fault finding.
• Good network security understanding and fundamentals.
• Commercial awareness with an appreciation for minimizing and controlling capital and operational expenditure in Mobile Core and TOC networks.
• Good presentation skills.
• Good project management and reporting skills.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Effective management of own workload and time.

We make an impact by offering:

• Enticing incentive programs and competitive benefit packages
• Retirement funds, risk benefits, and medical aid benefits
• Cell phone and data benefits, advantages fibre connection discounts, and exclusive staff discounts offered in collaboration with partner companies

Closing date for Applications: 7 August 2025