Senior Specialist Voice and Data Core

Job Description

When it comes to putting people first, we're number 1.

The number 1 Top Employer in South Africa.
Certified by the Top Employer Institute 2025.

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

The base location for this role is Midrand, Vodacom Campus

The company's approved Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered as part of the recruitment process. As an Equal Opportunities employer, we actively encourage and welcome people with various disabilities to apply.
Vodacom is committed to an organisational culture that recognises, appreciates, and values diversity & inclusion.