PS Core Planning Engineer at Airtel

Job Description

• To act as the representative for business, technical and other functional requirements in Packet Core solutions to support Mobile Data services. The function will define the optimal topology of the packet core network to meet premium service level agreements and industry architecture for next generation Packet switched networks; 
• To evaluate network design and define best criteria and guidelines with partners for capacity management and dimensioning of the PS core network; 
• To ensure delivery of PS projects to agreed SLAs whilst exploring the most efficient ways to realize new business requirements placed upon the 2G/3G/4G Mobile Core Network which includes but not limited to voice and data

Responsibilities

PS Core Planning and Architecture  

• Analyze business requirements and processes before converting ideas into technical solution; where required, research into new technology/features in Telecommunication industry with regards to Mobile Data services.
• Liaise with partner teams, Airtel HQ and other departments to assure optimal data network architecture adapted to local traffic profile, implementation and deployment of key networks systems through the full delivery life cycle from initial design to full operational handover. 
• Ensure projects are aligned with the Annual Operating Program (AOP) specifications
• Ensure all nodes within the Packet core network are functioning as per the business and network requirements.
• Provide a pathway towards evolving PS Core network in line with 3GPP Roadmap

Detailed and Effective Documentation

• Ensure that the project-related documentation reflects a fit-for-purpose design and complies with the contractual vendor requirements.
• Coordinate and review Vendordocumentation in the form of SD,  HLD and LLD designs prepared to include technical functionality, platform design and platform integration with relevant network elements. 
• Prepare and update network designs to reflect most recent changes in Network architecture/capacity

Capacity planning and Optimization

• Perform adequate dimensioning of all Packet Core Nodes and add-on solutions - in accordance with network growth and business projections. 
• Continuously monitor network traffic, licenses, trends and various parameters to ensure the Network elements are operating as expected. Where required, take corrective action with input from Operations and performance teams. 
• Effective understanding of Operational and Business support systems (OSS/BSS) for performance reporting, Key performance indicator (KPI) monitoring and tuning for effective end to end planning of data services.
• Periodical audit and optimization of Product-related configurations on the Deep Packet inspection (DPI) node to avoid data fraud and over/undercharging of data services
• Periodically revise and optimize signaling traffic towards charging system and other peer nodes

Expand & Evolve Core Network

• Understand the business requirements and impact on data network infrastructure.
• Responsible for planning all expansion of nodes well in advance.
• Plan evolution of PS core network to best industry practices

Vendor/Partner Management 

• Ensuring that Internal Operations and Vendor Team deliver projects to the high quality expected first time right. 
• Hold recurrent 

New Initiatives

• Explore new initiatives which meet business requirements by developing and delivering cost-effective solutions
• Technology assessments and POC trials (RFI/RFP/RFQ). Verification of solutions before roll-out

Employee Engagement

• Provide consultation services to relevant business units including Liaising with Marketing and IT for better understanding of proposed services.
• Hold necessary Kick off meetings with stakeholders where/when required.
• Always maintain high Team Harmony and Engagement with both internal and external teams and stakeholders

DIMENSIONS 

Financial Dimensions 

Budget: CAPEX- As per AOP CAPEX, OPEX– As per AOP(all of Network budget)

Other Dimensions 

• No. of direct reports: 
• No. of Interfacing Departments: 4 (NET/IT, Marketing, SCM, Airtel Africa HQ)

Qualifications

Educational Qualifications  

• Bachelor/Masters of Telecommunication/Electronic Engineering degree/Computer Science

Relevant Experience & Functional / Technical Skills 

• Minimum of 5 – 7 years’ work experience in large Mobile Network Operator within the PS core domain 
• Multivendor experience HUAWEI, ERICSSON platforms preferrable
• Hands-on Experience with Ericsson PS core nodes will be an added advantage.
• Good Experience with Project deployment of key network systems from initial design to full operational handover
• A thorough understanding of Network KPIs and their use
• Comprehensive understanding of Mobile Packet Core technologies from a design, optimization, and evolutional perspective.
• Strong Analytical and Presentation skills
• Knowledge of 3GPP/GSMA standards
• Detailed knowledge of Diameter Routing and Data Analytics platform 
• Understanding of NFV and Cloud Native Solutions

Other requirements 

• Personal Integrity and good interpersonal relationship
• Personal tenacity to succeed
• Must have excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Highly organized and good at implementation 
• Time management skills with commitment to project timelines.
• Self-motivational skills
• Good analytical and problem solving skills.
• Good practical skills in troubleshooting and fault resolution for supporting operations teams as an escalation point
• Professionalism in delivering daily services
• Innovative and Entrepreneurial in managing challenging situations