Overview
Senior Engineer: Mobile Core Network Jobs in Johannesburg at The Focus Group
The Focus Group Johannesburg, South Africa 10 April 2025 Mid 0 – 0 Full Time Cost to Company 3 years – 5 years Skills Configuration IP Networks Networks Optimization Industries Information Technology (IT) Job Description
Main Purpose
The experienced Mobile Core Network 4G/5G Engineer will be responsible for designing, implementing, and optimizing mobile core networks with a strong focus on MOCN, national roaming, and RAN integration. Your expertise in core network planning, deployment, and optimization will be crucial for ensuring high-quality network performance and seamless interoperability.
Network Design
Develop and design end-to-end 4G/5G core network solutions, with a focus on MOCN and roaming scenarios.
Ensure scalability, reliability, and security in network designs.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align network design with business requirements.
Traffic model and Capacity Management is required to ensure that the network nodes and links are adequately sized
Number range management
E2E FWA solution design, including Provisioning, Charging, Mobile Data Core (4G/5G) and RAN
Configuration Management
Deploy and integrate core network components, working closely with vendors and partners.
Able to configure all components of the Mobile Core 4/5G network
Ensure seamless integration with other MNOs for national roaming on 4G/5G networks.
Define and Complete all integration testing with Provisioning, Charging and RAN
Signalling Protocols: In-depth knowledge of key signalling protocols, including:
4G (LTE): S1AP, X2AP, GTP, Diameter, SCTP,
5G: NGAP, XnAP, HTTP/2, PFCP, SBI.
Network Optimization
Perform network performance analysis and optimization to enhance coverage, capacity, and quality of service.
Implement optimization strategies for MOCN and roaming scenarios.
Monitor network performance and troubleshoot issues to maintain optimal operation
Provide regular reporting of the whole network and the FWA Service
Review and report on network usage and customer usage
MOCN & RAN Integrations
Stay updated with the latest advancements in MOCN and RAN technologies and standards
Implement MOCN on other MNOs’ RAN infrastructure
Ensure proper configuration and management of shared RAN resources
Setting up the correct pooling and high availability configurations between the Mobile Core and RAN
Ensure seamless mobility between 4G/5G sites.
IP Networking
Implement and manage IP networking protocols (BGP, OSPF, MPLS) to ensure efficient data flow
Configure and troubleshoot IP routers, switches, and firewalls
Ensure robust IP network design to support core network operations
Setting up of DNS servers including setting up authoritative and caching DNS servers
Customize solutions to meet specific requirements and resolve integration issues
Documentation & Training
Create technical documentation, including network diagrams and guidelines
Conduct training sessions for internal teams and customers
Maintain up-to-date records of network configurations and changes
Key Decisions:
Decides on the Definition, design, architect, implement, test, and support the entire E2E FWA solution
Decides on which technologies to recommend, vendors, and preferred partners.
Decides on specific technologies for solutions and evolve the network accordingly
Decides the KPIs required for FWA service and provide the relevant reports
Accountable for:
Accountable for the designing, implementing, evolving and supporting the Core Network
Accountable for the capacity Management of the network providing the E2E FWA service
Accountable for the network quality and support of the E2E FWA service
Accountable for mobile Number Management
Accountable for Traffic Model Management
Formal Qualifications Required
In-depth understanding of 4G and 5G core network technologies, including EPC, IMS, and telecom call flow/processes.
5+ years of experience in designing and deploying mobile core network solutions, with a focus on MOCN and roaming scenarios.
Relevant certifications (e.g., CCNA, CCNP, 3GPP) are a plus. (DESIREABLE)
Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
Job Related Experience Required
Experience with network virtualization, NFV (Network Functions Virtualization), and cloud-native architectures. – 3+ Years
Planning and Configuration on Core Network Elements including all components of EPC and 5G Core – 3+ Years
Strong knowledge of Linux networking, including DPDK applications and SRIOV interfaces. – 3+ Years
Solution design and architecture – 2+ Years
Vendor solutions and technologies – 2+ Years
Project Management, multiple project handling – 2+ Years
Service delivery and management – 2+ Years
Creation of strategic technology plans – 2+ Years
Job Related Knowledge Required
4G/5G Core Network Technologies
Familiarity with 3GPP standards and protocols
Thorough knowledge of managing and supporting Roaming architectures such as MOCN
Implementation of IP networking protocols (BGP, OSPF, MPLS)
Job Related Skills Required
Relationship management – Essential
Analytical and design skills – Essential
Technical writing – Essential
Presentation skills – Essential
Time management – Essential
Ability to work under pressure – Essential
Telecoms infrastructure knowledge – Essential
ITIL and service management – Desirable
Design thinking and solutions focus – Essential
Data warehousing and ETL processes – Desirable
Supervision / Coordination of People and Work
Number of jobs – 1
Number of people – 2
Board/Professional Membership Required
Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) – Desirable
Industry Technology Certifications E.g. Security/Networking/Digital/Cloud/Applications – Essential
TM Forum SID certification – Desirable
TOGAF – Desirable
Title: Senior Engineer: Mobile Core Network
Company: The Focus Group
Location: Johannesburg
