Engineer - Regional Network Optimization - Nairobi East at Safaricom Kenya

Description

Reporting to the Manager - Regional Optimization – Nairobi East, the position holder will be responsible for ensuring the optimal performance of radio access networks (RAN), including 2G, 3G, 4G, and emerging 5G technologies. This position demands a blend of advanced technical expertise, data-driven cluster optimization skills, and a customer-centric mindset to deliver exceptional network quality and user experience. The successful candidate will collaborate with cross-functional teams, lead optimization initiatives, and align efforts with commercial goals to drive revenue growth and customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, monitor, and optimize radio network parameters to enhance coverage, capacity, and quality across 3G, 4G, and 5G networks. 
• Analyze signal strength metrics (e.g., RSSI, RSRP in dBm) and troubleshoot issues related to interference, handover failures, and call drops. 
• Perform drive tests, post-process data, and implement corrective actions to address coverage gaps and capacity constraints. 
• Utilize optimization tools (e.g., TEMS, Nemo, Atoll) and network management systems to assess and fine-tune RAN performance. 
• Stay abreast of evolving RAN technologies and recommend upgrades or parameter adjustments to maintain competitive network performance.
• Lead end-to-end cluster optimization projects, ensuring KPIs (e.g., throughput, latency, drop rate) meet or exceed targets. 
• Conduct pre- and post-optimization analysis for network rollouts, expansions, or technology migrations (e.g., 2G, 3G to 4G transitions). 
• Identify and resolve cluster-specific issues such as overshooting cells, pilot pollution, or load imbalance using statistical and predictive modeling. 
• Collaborate with planning teams to align cluster designs with traffic demand and geographical challenges.
• Guide junior engineers and field technicians in optimization techniques, fostering a culture of technical excellence and accountability. 
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams, including RF planning, core network, and operations, to execute network improvement projects. 
• Present optimization reports and actionable insights to senior management, translating technical data into strategic recommendations.
• Align network optimization efforts with commercial objectives, such as reducing churn, increasing data usage, and supporting marketing campaigns. 
• Partner with sales and commercial teams to prioritize high-value areas (e.g., urban centers, enterprise zones) for enhanced network performance. 
• Track and report on optimization contributions to revenue growth and customer acquisition/retention metrics.
• Champion a customer-first approach by ensuring network reliability, speed, and availability meet or exceed subscriber expectations. 
• Proactively identify and mitigate network issues that impact user experience, such as poor voice quality or slow data speeds. 
• Support the company’s mission to deliver world-class connectivity by driving continuous improvement in network KPIs and service quality.
• Maintain detailed records of optimization activities, parameter changes, and performance outcomes for audit and reference purposes. 
• Ensure adherence to regulatory standards (e.g., spectrum usage, emissions) and internal policies during optimization processes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical or Telecommunication Engineering
• Proficiency in RAN technologies (3G UMTS, 4G LTE, 5G NR) and their associated KPIs. 
• Strong understanding of signal strength measurement (e.g., dBm, RSRP, SINR) and radio propagation principles. 
• Hands-on experience with optimization tools (e.g., SoC, Geosythesis, Atoll, Nokia NetAct, Huawei U2000, TEMS Investigation) and drive test analysis. 
• Knowledge of scripting (e.g., Python, SQL) for data analysis and automation is a plus.
• Proven ability to manage and optimize multi-cell clusters, balancing coverage, capacity, and interference. 
• Experience with parameter tuning, antenna optimization, and load-sharing techniques.
• Demonstrated ability to lead projects and mentor team members in a fast-paced environment. 
• Excellent communication skills to bridge technical and commercial teams effectively.
• Results-driven mindset with a track record of meeting or exceeding performance targets. 
• Ability to translate technical improvements into tangible business outcomes.
• Passion for delivering exceptional network quality and resolving customer pain points. 
• Analytical skills to correlate network performance with user experience metrics.
• Candidates with experience on Nokia and/or Huawei equipment will have an added advantage.
• Candidate must be willing to work in any part of the country