Principal NPO Engineer

Network Strategy & Architecture:

Define and contribute to end-to-end network architecture across RAN, IP, and backhaul

Ensure alignment with:

• Core network architecture
• Transmission and backhaul strategy
• Capacity and growth forecasts
• Develop design standards, optimisation frameworks, and best practices
• Support network evolution strategies (e.g. LTE to 5G, FWA enhancements)

Network Performance & Optimisation:

• Define and own network performance KPIs (availability, throughput, latency, congestion)
• Lead performance monitoring and reporting frameworks
• Drive network optimisation strategies across wireless and transport layers
• Identify root causes of performance issues and implement sustainable solutions
• Troubleshoot complex, cross-domain network issues

Network Design & Capacity Planning: 

Lead capacity planning and dimensioning to support network growth

Provide input into:

• Site design and configurations
• RF parameters and optimisation strategies
• Equipment and technology selection

Ensure designs meet:

• Performance targets
• Quality benchmarks
• Scalability requirements

Vendor & Technology Management:

Act as technical lead in engagements with vendors (e.g. ZTE)

Review and challenge:

• Network designs
• Performance commitments
• Implementation quality

Drive vendor accountability on:

• SLA adherence o Performance improvements
• Delivery timelines

Integration & Interoperability:

Ensure seamless integration between:

• RAN, Core, and IP networks
• New and legacy technologies
•  

Support testing, validation, and acceptance processes

Drive interoperability and performance consistency across the network

Governance & Risk Management:

Identify and mitigate:

• Network performance risks
• Capacity constraints
• Technical bottlenecks

Support commercial and legal teams with:

• Technical input into SLAs
• Performance and acceptance criteria

Team Leadership & Capability Building:

Provide technical leadership to:

• RF planners
• NOC and field teams

Mentor and upskill internal teams

Build a high-performance network optimisation capability within the organisation

Degree/Diploma in Telecommunications, Engineering, IT, or related field

10+ years’ telecoms/network operations experience

Strong 5G Core, RAN, transport, and systems operations experience

Experience in ISP or carrier-grade environments

Advanced troubleshooting and incident management capability 

Knowledge of automation, scripting, and monitoring platforms

Vendor certifications advantageous (Huawei, Nokia, Ericsson, Cisco, Juniper)