Specialist : Core Data Operations Support x2 at Vodacom

Role purpose:

The purpose of the role is to provide support on all Packet core elements within Vodacom SA. To evaluate system architecture and recommend system improvements; and perform systems and configuration integration. Predominant focus will be on the planning, implementation and support of Vodacom’s Packet Core Network, including products for SGSN, GGSN, EPC(MME, SGW and PGW), eDirectory, BIND/DNS, RADIUS, PCRF and Sentinel Log Manager, Various protocols (TCP, UDP, RADIUS, LDAP, DIAMETER, DNS, HTTP, CUPS, VoLTE, NFV etc.) and routers/switches. Evaluate and implement system software releases upgrades for all Packet Core elements. Engage with engineering, regional operations and NMG network performance teams to understand and address network concerns. Adhere to Vodacom health and safety absolute rules. Pre-empting operational issues before service is impacted, by studying and analysing daily and weekly performance reports. Internal and external audits, e.g. SOX. Take lead in handling major faults and escalations (office/after hours); including guidance in providing solutions in quick time. Interaction with other departments, like Service Development, OSS IN, CDN, ANOC, Transmission and Our Vendor Partners. Analyse and implement Vendor recommendations to improve Network performance and prevent fraud. 

Your responsibilities will include:

Linux System Administration – Red Hat, Ubuntu and SLES.
Radius and DNS Administration.
Cisco Packet Core Administration (StarOS).
Analysing and Decision Making.
Problem solving and logical thinking.
Delivering Results and exceeding Customer Expectations.
Provide high level support and uptime.
Maintain systems & systems availability.
Change Management Procedures. 
Ensure system security.
Managed system performance and capacity.
Wireshark traces and interpretation of results.
Interpersonal skills and team work. 
Being able to work under pressure.
Reporting/analytical skills.
 

The ideal candidate for this role will have:

Matric or Grade 12 is essential.
A bachelor’s degree or 3-year diploma in Information Technology or Electrical Engineering.
Cisco Certification (Advantageous).
Linux Certification (Advantageous).
Knowledge of the Microsoft Office suite i.e. MS Word, MS Excel, MS Teams, One Drive and MS Power Point (Essential).
3 Years’ in Telecommunications or Information Technology industry.
3 Years’ Experience on Linux/Unix based systems (Essential).
3 Years’ Experience on Cisco Switches and Routers (Essential).
3 Years’ Experience on Directory Services (Novell eDirectory) & LDAP (Advantageous).
3 Years’ Experience on Free Radius (Advantageous).
3 Years’ Experience on DNS (BIND) (Advantageous).
3 Years’ Experience on GSM, UMTS, VoLTE and LTE knowledge (Essential).
3 Years’ Experience on Diameter protocol.

Closing date for Applications: 24 November 2021