Network Optimization Engineer Job Vacancy in Fajara, Gambia – Telecommunications
Job Description
Position:Network Optimization Engineer
Company:Africell Gambia
Location:Fajara, Gambia
Experience:3-5 years in telecom network planning and optimization
Education:Bachelor’s degree in Telecommunications Engineering or related field
Employment Type:Full-time
Industry:Telecommunications
Department:Network Engineering
Salary:SSP 800,000 – 1,200,000 per annum
Vacancies:1
Company Overview
Africell Gambia is a leading mobile telecommunications provider delivering innovative voice, data, and digital services across the Republic of The Gambia. With a commitment to expanding network coverage, enhancing customer experience, and fostering digital inclusion, Africell has become a trusted brand for millions of Gambians. The company invests heavily in modern infrastructure, including 4G LTE networks, fiber backbones, and emerging 5G trials, positioning itself at the forefront of Africa’s digital transformation. As part of its growth strategy, Africell continuously seeks talented professionals who can drive network performance, optimize resources, and support the delivery of high‑quality services. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a dynamic, fast‑moving environment while advancing your career in telecommunications engineering.
Job Overview
The Network Optimization Engineer will be responsible for planning, analyzing, and optimizing Africell’s radio access network (RAN) to ensure optimal coverage, capacity, and quality of service. You will work closely with the Radio Planning, Operations, and Performance teams to design solutions that meet growing data demand, improve key performance indicators, and support new technology rollouts. This position plays a critical role in maintaining Africell’s reputation for reliable connectivity and will directly impact the company’s ability to deliver superior mobile experiences to its customers across Gambia.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct comprehensive drive‑test and network performance analysis to identify coverage gaps, capacity constraints, and quality issues.
- Develop and implement optimization strategies, including antenna tilt adjustments, handover parameter tuning, and load balancing.
- Collaborate with the Radio Planning team to design and validate network expansion projects, including new site acquisition and equipment upgrades.
- Utilize advanced analytics tools (e.g., Atoll, Mentum Planet, TEMS) to model network scenarios and forecast traffic growth.
- Prepare detailed optimization reports, dashboards, and recommendations for senior management.
- Support the rollout of 4G LTE enhancements and pilot 5G trials, ensuring seamless integration with existing infrastructure.
- Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as RRC success rate, drop call rate, and data throughput, and take corrective actions as needed.
- Coordinate with vendor engineers for firmware updates, parameter configuration, and troubleshooting.
Required Skills
- Strong knowledge of GSM, UMTS, LTE, and emerging 5G technologies.
- Proficiency with network planning and optimization software (e.g., Atoll, Planet, TEMS, NetAct).
- Excellent analytical and problem‑solving abilities, with a data‑driven mindset.
- Effective communication skills to convey technical concepts to cross‑functional teams.
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects under tight deadlines.
- Familiarity with RF engineering principles, antenna systems, and propagation models.
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Telecommunications Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a closely related discipline is required. Professional certifications such as Cisco CCNA, Nokia NRS, or Ericsson Certified Engineer are advantageous.
Experience
Applicants should have 3‑5 years of hands‑on experience in mobile network optimization, radio planning, or performance engineering within a telecom operator or a major equipment vendor. Experience with African market conditions and regulatory environments is a plus.
Salary
The successful candidate will receive a competitive salary ranging from SSP 800,000 to SSP 1,200,000 per year, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Performance‑based bonuses and incentives are also part of the compensation package.
Benefits
- Health insurance covering medical, dental, and vision.
- Retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
- Annual leave and paid public holidays in line with Gambian labor law.
- Company‑provided mobile device and data allowance.
- Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.
Training
- Continuous professional development through internal workshops and external certifications.
- Access to industry conferences, webinars, and technical forums.
- Mentorship program pairing junior engineers with senior network architects.
Working Environment
Africell offers a collaborative, inclusive workplace where innovation is encouraged. The role is based in Fajara with occasional field visits to network sites across the country. Flexible working hours and a supportive team culture enable a healthy work‑life balance.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience through the online application portal on the Africell careers page. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an initial interview.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Africell Gambia is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, race, religion, age, disability, or sexual orientation. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination.
