Core Network Systems Specialist at Vodafone, Accra, Ghana

This role is accountable for ensuring CS/PS core and its related technologies provide data services to customers.
The role will report into the Core Network Operations Manager, and it involves operational and maintenance of the Core Systems platforms as per Telecel Ghana key network performance indicators. The core network platforms environment includes (Huawei HSS 9860, Huawei SPS, Huawei vEPS – SGSN, GGSN, P-GW, S-GW, CG, Juniper firewalls (SRX5800), DNS systems) etc

Role Responsibility

•Ensure a smooth operational running of the GSM/UMTS/LTE specific Packet Core Network, HLR/HSS environment and roaming.
•Collaborate with Core Planning teams to ensure that Project and Programme Plans are built up in a realistic manner that considers all internal and external dependencies.
•Adherence to Cybersecurity process and designs
•Assist the Core Network Operations Manager in the development of annual OPEX/CAPEX budget for operations
•Deliver assigned tasks for projects, within the roadmap, considering the directional guidance of the strategic (3-5 year) plan, managing risks, escalations and exceptions, and complex interfaces.
•Use communication skills to work with other Network functions and other key stakeholders to ensure development is undertaken in line with the overall strategy and architecture and is fit for deployment.
•Demonstrate a good understanding of specific elements across the Network landscape.
•Make recommendations to capacity dimensioning and performance of the core networks
•Perform other related duties as may be required by the Core Network Operations Manager

Professional / Technical Competencies

•University degree in telecommunication or Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering + Project Management or SCRUM Master (Mandatory)
•10+ years’ experience in telecoms with development, integrations, implementation, maintenance of Core Network solutions in a telecom operator role preferably in a packet switched – GPRS/UMTS network design and engineering environment working.
•Design and deployment experience of key network systems/nodes through the full delivery lifecycle from initial design to full operational handover.
•Good in CS/PS Core Network technologies and telecommunications knowledge. Familiar with protocols and signalling such as MAP, ISUP, CAP, BICC, SS7, SIGTRAN, IMS etc.
•Possess skills in any of the following area: CS/PS (SGSN, GGSN/PGW, SGW/ DNS/HLR/HSS, STP).
•Working experience in IP networks, preferably with experience with the prime IP vendor equipment’s: Cisco/Juniper/Huawei network certification.
•In-depth knowledge and experience of IP technologies and services including Converged Packet Network (CPN), Packet Switched Core (SGSN/GGSN, MME, SGPW,CGW), virtualization technologies
•Experience of network and service planning, architecture, design, integration, and acceptance test procedures.
•Good working knowledge of 3GPP, IETF and GSMA standards (2G, 2.5G, 3G and 4G/LTE network) and architectures
•Unix/Linux working knowledge with good understanding of scripting, Data Analytics
•Project Management

Not a perfect fit?

Worried that you don’t meet all the desired criteria exactly? At Vodafone we are passionate about Inclusion for All and creating a workplace where everyone can thrive, whatever their personal or professional background. If you’re excited about this role but your experience doesn’t align exactly with every part of the job description, we encourage you to apply as you may be the right candidate for this role or another role, and our recruitment team can help you see how your skills fit in.

Vodafone is committed to attracting, developing and retaining the very best people by offering a motivating and inclusive workplace in which talent is truly recognised and rewarded. We are committed to promoting Inclusion for All with the belief that diversity plays an important role in the success of our business. We actively encourage everyone to consider becoming a part of our journey.