Graduate Trainee (Field Engineering)
Location: Lagos and other states across Nigeria (with field travel across sites)
Department: Network Operations / Field Engineering
Reports to: Project Manager / Project Implementation Specialist
Employment Type: Full-time, Graduate Trainee Programme (Probationary)
About Vinetrust Networks & Engineering Ltd
- Vinetrust Networks & Engineering Ltd delivers end-to-end telecom infrastructure services across Nigeria, from
microwave and RAN installation to fiber optic deployment, core network integration, and managed field
operations. The Graduate Trainee Programme is built to convert fresh engineering graduates into field-ready
network engineers through hands-on exposure, structured mentorship, and a strong safety-first culture.
Role Summary - The Graduate Trainee (Field Engineering) supports senior engineers across microwave, RAN, core network,
billing system, optical transport, and fiber deployment activities, while developing the break-and-fix discipline,
field mobility, and EHS mindset required for telecom operations in Lagos and environs. This is a structured 6 –
12-month development track leading to a substantive Network Engineer role.
Key Responsibilities
Field Deployment Support - Assist with installation and commissioning of microwave radios (point-to-point links), RAN equipment
(BTS/NodeB/eNodeB/gNodeB), routers, switches, and core network elements. - Support fiber optic cable deployment: duct laying, splicing support, patching, and structured cabling.
- Assist with optical transport equipment (DWDM/SDH/OTN) installation and line-up checks.
Break-and-Fix Operations - Respond to site callouts for faults, link degradation, and service-affecting outages under senior engineer
supervision. - Perform first-level fault isolation: power, transmission, hardware, or configuration issues.
- Support swap-out of faulty modules/cards and escalate complex faults per Vinetrust’s SLA matrix.
Site Mobility & Logistics - Drive or co-drive to client and cell sites across Lagos and other surrounding states; ensure tools, spares, and test equipment are transported safely.
- Plan routes factoring Lagos traffic patterns to meet maintenance windows and SLA timelines.
- Maintain vehicle log, fuel records, and pre-trip safety checks.
Network Monitoring & Testing - Monitor alarms and link KPIs via NMS platforms; escalate per defined thresholds.
- Conduct fiber testing (OTDR traces, light level/power budget checks), LAN/cable testing, and post-install
validation. - Support billing system checks verifying provisioning, CDR flow, and service activation post-deployment.
Documentation & Reporting - Complete site survey forms, installation reports, RFI/RFC documentation, as-built diagrams, and inventory
logs. - Update change logs and handover notes for shift/project continuity.
Customer Interface - Represent Vinetrust professionally on client sites; handle basic client queries and escalate technical concerns
appropriately.
EHS Compliance - Comply strictly with Vinetrust’s Environmental, Health & Safety policy: PPE usage (hard hat, harness, gloves,
safety boots), working-at-height protocols, generator/fuel handling, and electrical safety. - Conduct Job Safety Analysis (JSA)/Permit-to-Work checks before task execution.
- Report hazards, near-misses, and incidents immediately per Vinetrust HSE procedure.
Learning & Development - Attend internal technical training, OEM certification workshops, and mentorship sessions.
- Progress through a structured competency checklist toward full Network Engineer certification.
Required Skills & Competencies - Networking Fundamentals: TCP/IP, VLANs, routing/switching basics, wireless/RF concepts.
- Telecom Exposure (advantage, not mandatory): Basic understanding of RAN architecture, microwave link
principles, or optical transmission concepts. - Tools: CLI navigation, ping/traceroute/basic diagnostics, cable testers, OTDR familiarity a plus.
- Analytical & Troubleshooting Mindset: Structured fault-finding approach.
- Communication: Clear verbal/written reporting for technical and client audiences.
- Physical Readiness: Comfortable working at heights (towers/rooftops), outdoor site conditions, and extended
field hours. - Teamwork & Adaptability: Works well under supervision, adapts to changing site priorities and break-and-fix
urgency.
Education & Requirements - B.Sc./B.Eng./HND in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Telecommunications, Computer Engineering, or
related field. - Minimum Second-Class Lower / Lower Credit (or per Vinetrust’s standard).
- Valid Nigerian driver’s license (not mandatory but would be a plus for field mobility across Lagos and other
states). - NYSC completed or discharge certificate (where applicable but not mandatory considering some candidates are
just done with school). - CCNA, CCST Networking, fiber optic (FOA/CFOT), or telecom-related certifications are an added advantage.
Performance Expectations (Probation) - Demonstrate initiative, punctuality, and readiness for field callouts, including out-of-hours break-and-fix
response. - Maintain 100% PPE compliance and zero safety violations.
- Accurate, timely documentation for every site visit.
- Steady progression on the technical competency checklist (microwave, RAN, fiber, core, optical).
- Positive client feedback and effective support to assigned senior engineer.
What Vinetrust Offers - Structured mentorship under experienced field and core network engineers.
- Exposure across the full telecom stack: microwave, RAN, core, optical transport, fiber, and billing systems.
- Pathway to certification support (OEM and vendor-specific training).
- Career progression into Network Engineer / Field Engineer roles post-programme.
Send your CV and other relevant certificates/certifications to: career@vinetrust.net
Note: - A background check will be conducted on shortlisted/selected candidates as part of the recruitment process
- By applying for this role, candidates consent and agree to Vinetrust Networks & Engineering Ltd carrying out a
background check as part of the screening process