Core Support Specialist - Test at Cell C

Purpose of the Job: 

• To co-ordinate and manage all high-level support activities on the Core network equipment by providing 2nd line support and maintenance for Cell C’s core network equipment, by applying expert knowledge and system management capabilities, ensuring maximum availability of the Core network to the customer. 
• Experience with network or signaling protocols such as SS7, TCP/IP, SIP, Diameter, GTP C/U
• A deep understanding of the environment architecture, call flows for both Circuit Switched (CS) and Packet Switched (PS) scenarios.
• A deep understanding of IMS (Wifi Calling, VoLTE),
• Understanding of Cloud Technologies and NFV infrastructure,
• Understanding of the architecture of Fusionsphere, FusionStage (Quantum, Nova, etc.) plugins and related agents and interfaces
• Understanding of 3GPP and ETSI NFV standards, concepts, and implementation.
• Understanding of different mobile network interfaces
• Provide technical systems engineering support to assist with RAN integration, BSS integration.
• Perform on demand analysis of specific core network issues (performance degradation, customer complaints, etc.)

Key Performance Objectives
Configuration Management

• Ensure proper execution of Core Network software updates and upgrades.
• Implement and control procedures and tests for the acceptance of new Core Network equipment and software.
• Execute / assist with PATs and FATs.
• Assist with the installation and connection of new equipment, to ensure Operations standards are met.
• Ensure data integrity of all Core Network related databases and software configurations.
• Review planned work for accuracy and completeness before implementation

Preventive Maintenance

• Implement and maintain strategies and procedures for Core Network hardware and software maintenance and support.
• Ensure the integrity and use of the Core Network System Support Plans.
• Organize and execute regular system and database audits.
• Organize and execute maintenance activities in cooperation with the SSOC.
• Manage the quality of work, progress and the working methods applied of internal and external parties according to SLA’s and other contracts

Corrective Maintenance and Fault Management

• Organize and execute Core Network element backups.
• React to Core Network faults within stipulated time frames.
• Resolve Core Network faults within stipulated time frames.
• Escalate unresolved Core Network faults to TAC2 within stipulated time frames.
• Follow up and manage fault resolution of escalated faults to suppliers according to SLA time lines.
• Ensure the integrity of fault reports for the purpose of SLA reconciliation.

Performance Management

• Escalate overdue faults according to escalation procedures.
• Core Networks spare log execution. Obtain replacement and return faulty units
• Reach performance targets within specified time frames.
• Involvement in Core Network performance improvement project.

Reporting Data and Documentation Management

• Compile weekly, monthly and quarterly Core Network reports according to defined templates
• Ensure consistency, accuracy and integrity of all Core Network related data and documentation

Qualifications

• University Degree in Engineering or B-Tech Degree with extensive experience

Experience

• 3 years’ experience in Core Network support.
• Extensive knowledge of Supplier’s Core Network equipment.
• A complete understanding of the configuration, operation and maintenance of Core Network equipment