Specialist: Packet Core & Telco Infrastructure

About the role

The Specialist – Packet Core & Telco Infrastructure will ensure the smooth operation of Vodacom’s core network and supporting infrastructure. You will be responsible for maintaining high network availability, meeting KPI targets and delivering an optimal end‑user experience.

Key responsibilities

• Manage and monitor cloud infrastructure resources, including the creation, onboarding and lifecycle of VNFs, VMs and VNFCs.
• Collaborate with application owners to resolve infrastructure or hypervisor issues.
• Design, implement and optimise IP networks to meet current and future demand while ensuring maximum availability.
• Oversee end‑to‑end packet‑core operations, performing preventive, reactive and corrective maintenance and applying vendor updates.
• Contribute to the evolution and roadmap of the packet‑core environment, advising on best‑in‑class solutions.
• Provide incident management support, including escalation, reporting, root‑cause analysis and recommendations.
• Ensure business continuity and disaster‑recovery plans are aligned with Vodacom policy.

Required profile

• University degree in Telecommunications Engineering, Electronics, Computer Engineering or Computer Science.
• Minimum 2 years experience in telecommunications operations.
• Relevant certifications such as CCNA, JNCA or HCIA are a plus.
• Proven ability to work with multiple vendors and partners.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving capabilities.

Required skills

• Cloud infrastructure management (VNF, VM, VNFC).
• IP network design and optimisation.
• Packet‑core network operation and maintenance.
• Unix/Linux administration.
• Programming in C, C++ and Python.
• Knowledge of GSM/mobile network architectures.
• CCNA, JNCA or HCIA certifications (preferred).