Manager – Radio Access Network Planning

Job Description

Job Summary

The role is responsible for leading Radio Frequency (RF) and Radio Access Network (RAN) planning, design, and optimization across all Radio Access Technologies (RATs). The successful candidate will oversee network capacity, coverage, and quality planning to ensure reliable network performance and alignment with business objectives. The position also involves developing RF strategies, managing technology upgrades and vendor coordination, monitoring network performance, ensuring regulatory compliance, and contributing to strategic planning. In addition, the role provides technical leadership, mentorship, and performance management for a team of RAN Engineers while supporting the delivery of network expansion and optimization projects.

Key Responsibilities

Radio Frequency (RF) and Radio Access Network (RAN) Planning

• Provide radio frequency (RF) and/or Radio Access Network (RAN) strategy for all RATs.
• Design, plan, and optimize wireless radio access network communication systems, including radio propagation modelling and prediction, interference analysis, frequency coordination, parameter definition, and equipment planning.
• Ensure the network has sufficient capacity, coverage, and quality to meet user demands and align with business goals.
• Participate in the formulation of radio capacity design guidelines, forecasting, and strategies in accordance with ITU and Safaricom planning guidelines.
• Prepare accurate and timely equipment forecasts for new nominals, define the need for capacity, coverage, and quality sites, and ensure timely release of all new site plans.
• Participate in MSVs, SAVs, and IBS survey visits.
• Prepare and coordinate the issuance of redesigns, integration parameters, and BTS signoffs.
• Provide input in defining implementation guidelines for approved new features and technologies.

Network Optimization and Performance Management

• Participate in developing internal processes for radio capacity design, optimization, and inter- and intra-departmental teamwork to enhance RF system performance.
• Perform development, testing, and validation of RF and capacity feature plan proposals.
• Work with other RF Engineers to evaluate and resolve network issues.
• Continuously review the frequency/PSC/PCI plan to accommodate new sites and ensure an overall reduction in interference levels.
• Continuously monitor new-site quality KPIs through performance monitoring and drive-test analysis.
• Initiate corrective optimization plans and manage their implementation through completion.
• Analyze traffic trends and resource utilization, redistribute capacity, and optimize resources to guarantee network quality.

Technology and Vendor Coordination

• Engage vendors and the Strategy team on hardware and software roadmaps and new RF technologies.
• Work with equipment vendors, including Nokia and Huawei, and third-party contractors to implement optimization solutions.
• Support the integration and optimization of new technologies, including 5G NR and LTE-Advanced, and network expansions.
• Manage all radio planning tools, software, and hardware inventories, and track upgrades and licensing.
• Support other business units in the technical evaluation of RF solutions involving existing and emerging technology plans and strategies.

Team Leadership and Development

• Manage and mentor a team of RAN Engineers by assigning and delegating tasks, providing performance feedback, and fostering a collaborative team environment.
• Set performance goals and ensure timely project delivery.
• Lead and develop the team through clear objectives and target setting for performance and career development.
• Participate in developing internal processes for radio network design and optimization, including coaching and knowledge sharing.

Reporting, Compliance, and Strategic Support

• Prepare and present performance reports to senior management, highlighting optimization outcomes and recommendations.
• Provide input to management on tactical and strategic issues and contribute to developing product strategies.
• Collaborate with Legal, SLT, and ECA to ensure regulatory compliance.
• Ensure network configurations comply with regulatory standards and operator guidelines.
• Play a crucial role in managing budgets, executing plans, and staying abreast of new technologies.

Requirements and Qualifications

Educational Qualification

• BSc. Honours degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, with a bias towards Telecommunications.

Work Experience

• 8 years’ experience in a Radio Access Network Planning/Optimization environment.
• Experience in managing and leading teams, particularly in a technical environment.

Technical and Professional Qualifications

• Practical knowledge of all RATs and interoperability is a must.
• Thorough knowledge of traffic modelling, coverage and capacity forecasting, and management.
• Knowledge of Core Access Planning, Paging, and LAC dimensioning.
• Practical knowledge of radio planning tools and capacity planning tools, MySQL, M2000/EMS, NetAct, Advanced Excel, and Erlang-B.
• Knowledge of SQL database queries and scripting.
• Python scripting for data manipulation, QGIS, Google Earth, MapInfo, and crowdsourced analytics are an added advantage.
• Candidates with experience in Nokia or Huawei 2G/3G/4G/5G equipment will have an added advantage.

Required Skills and Competencies

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a track record of presenting to senior management.
• Strong ability to speak, write, read, and listen in English.
• Excellent analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Project management skills.
• Additional training in leadership and management is an added advantage.