Senior Core Engineer

Overview

We are recruiting!

Our client in Lusaka is looking for a Senior Core Engineer to join their team for a job vacancy within the ISP Industry.

To apply or for more information follow the link below.

JOB DUTIES/ RESPONSIBILITIES

Advanced Troubleshooting and Support

• Lead the resolution of complex network issues involving Cisco IOS XE/XR platforms, MPLS, LDP, BGP, and OSPF, as well as Fortinet, Calix, Infinera, and Juniper systems.
• Provide expert-level support for core network operations and NOC-escalated customer problems.
• Mentor junior engineers in troubleshooting multi-protocol environments and DWDM systems.
• Network Design and Strategy
• Architect scalable, resilient core network infrastructure, leveraging Cisco routers (IOS XE/XR), MPLS, LDP, and advanced BGP for optimal routing and switching.
• Design and implement OSPF and MPLS-based solutions to support high-availability and traffic engineering requirements.
• Lead the integration of Fortinet security, Calix access, Infinera DWDM, and Juniper routing technologies, ensuring alignment with business goals and robust reporting frameworks.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define technical requirements for new products or deployments, emphasizing advanced routing protocols.
• Core network design and architecture to meet business requirements.
• Provide input to Virtual Team (Voice, Systems, Infrastructure, Sales) for new product development /technology deployment / new customer requirements.
• Implementation and Optimization
• Oversee the planning, installation, configuration, and testing of Cisco routers (IOS XE/XR), Juniper devices, Infinera DWDM systems, Fortinet firewalls, and Calix platforms.
• Optimize network performance using advanced BGP techniques (e.g., route reflectors, confederations, policy-based routing) and MPLS/LDP for efficient traffic management.
• Develop and enforce standards for network documentation and reporting, delivering detailed insights on BGP, OSPF, and MPLS performance metrics.

Operational Leadership

• Drive strategic improvements in routing and switching operations, incorporating automation tools and preventative maintenance systems for Cisco and Juniper environments.
• Lead capacity planning and forecasting for MPLS and DWDM networks, using advanced BGP analytics and reporting to anticipate demand.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, providing regular security and performance reports leveraging Fortinet and Cisco tools.
• Team Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing
• Act as a technical lead, providing expertise in Cisco IOS XE/XR, MPLS, LDP, BGP, OSPF, Fortinet, Calix, Infinera, and Juniper technologies.
• Deliver concise, actionable reports to stakeholders on network health, routing efficiency, and optimization strategies.
• Stay ahead of industry trends in advanced routing and switching, recommending innovative solutions to enhance network capabilities.

SKILLS, COMPETENCIES & ATTRIBUTES

Knowledge of:

• Expert-level mastery of Cisco routers running IOS XE and XR, with deep expertise in MPLS, LDP, BGP, and OSPF configuration and troubleshooting.
• Advanced understanding of BGP routing techniques (e.g., route filtering, peering, multi-homing) and switching protocols in large-scale networks.
• Proficiency with Fortinet products (e.g., FortiGate, Forti Manager) for security and reporting.
• Strong experience with Calix systems (e.g., E7 platforms) for access network management.
• In-depth knowledge of Infinera DWDM products and optical transport technologies.
• Expertise in Juniper devices (e.g., MX Series, SRX Series) for routing and switching.
• Familiarity with network management systems, reporting tools, and multi-vendor hardware/software integration.

Ability to:

• Design and maintain high-availability core networks using Cisco IOS XE/XR, MPLS, LDP, and advanced BGP/OSPF configurations.
• Optimize routing and switching performance with policy-driven BGP and MPLS traffic engineering.
• Provide authoritative technical support and mentorship across Cisco, Juniper, Fortinet, and DWDM platforms.
• Produce detailed, data-driven reports on network performance, routing efficiency, and security compliance.
• Microwave radio experience and spectrum planning.

Key Attributes:

• Exceptional attention to detail and analytical skills, particularly in BGP routing and network reporting.
• Strategic thinker with a proactive approach to network design and optimization.
• Strong leadership and communication skills for team collaboration and stakeholder engagement.
• Ability to thrive in high-pressure environments and manage complex, multi-protocol networks.
• Commitment to continuous learning across Cisco, Juniper, Fortinet, Calix, Infinera, and DWDM ecosystems.
• MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
• 5+ years of ICT experience in a service provider environment, with hands-on expertise in Cisco IOS XE/XR, MPLS, LDP, BGP, OSPF, and DWDM systems.
• Proven experience with Fortinet products, Calix platforms, Infinera DWDM solutions, and Juniper devices in operational settings.
• Demonstrated ability to implement and troubleshoot advanced BGP routing and switching in multi-vendor environments.
• Track record of producing detailed technical and operational reports for network management.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

• Tertiary qualification in IT, Computer Science, or a related field (highly preferred).
• CCNP or CCDP Certification with a focus on Routing and Switching (CCIE R&S or SP strongly preferred).
• Certifications in Fortinet (e.g., NSE 4 or higher), Juniper (e.g., JNCIP), or DWDM technologies are advantageous.
• Experience with reporting tools and network analytics platforms is a plus

The candidate must have a Valid Driver’s license and Passport.