Our client, a global consulting firm, is partnering with a major mining player in South Africa to drive a crucial operational technology transformation. As part of this broader initiative to enhance digital infrastructure and optimize connectivity across mining operations, the firm seeks a seasoned Network/Telecom Expert to spearhead advanced network solutions that improve productivity, safety, and resilience in demanding environments.

This opportunity is central to a multi-year modernization project, with the consultant playing a vital role in designing, implementing, and optimizing integrated IT/OT networks. The expert will enable the mining player to unlock better data flows, real-time monitoring, and robust communications—directly impacting operational efficiency and future growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Evaluate, design, and optimize IT/OT infrastructures for mining environments, focusing on end-to-end connectivity across sites.
• Architect and deploy mesh networks, LTE, and Wi-Fi systems tailored for harsh and expansive mining conditions.
• Lead capacity-planning exercises and troubleshoot bottlenecks to ensure high network reliability and performance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams from both client and mining organizations, advising on best practices for network security, scalability, and integration.
• Influence strategic decisions around technology adoption and network transformation to support automation and digital initiatives.
• Provide hands-on leadership during the initial project phase, with the possibility to guide longer-term network evolution.

Your Background

• Over 10 years of deep expertise in network and telecom engineering, specifically in IT/OT environments within industrial or mining sectors.
• Proven track record in designing and deploying large-scale mesh, LTE, and Wi-Fi networks in challenging or remote operational settings.
• Strong capacity in capacity planning, network optimization, and troubleshooting complex connectivity issues.
• Bachelor's degree or higher in Information Technology, Telecommunications, Electronics, or adjacent fields.
• Experience interfacing with both business and technical stakeholders, driving solution adoption in high-impact projects.

The engagement is on a remote setup with an initial 1–1.5 month intensive phase and potential to extend for up to three years.