Solution Architect

Solution Architect – Mining Telecommunications (Private LTE Focus)

The Solution Architect within APD's Telecommunications team is responsible for leading the design, architecture, and strategic planning of advanced telecommunications systems, with a strong emphasis on private LTE networks, microwave backhaul, and integrated IP/MPLS solutions tailored for mission-critical mining operations.

This role drives the digital transformation of mining environments by architecting scalable, secure, and resilient networks that support automation, real-time data integration, and enhanced safety for energy providers and Tier 1 miners in the critical minerals sector across the APAC region, including projects in Western Australia's Pilbara region.

Key Responsibilities:

• Architectural Leadership: Develop high-level and detailed network architectures for private LTE deployments, ensuring alignment with mining operational goals such as sustaining high production rates, autonomous haulage systems (AHS), and integrated mine automation (IMA).
• Pre-Sales and Solution Shaping: Collaborate with sales and technical teams to provide expert insights during pre-sales, crafting bespoke solutions based on client requirements, regulatory compliance, and site-specific challenges like rugged terrain and environmental hazards.
• Strategic Planning: Oversee the integration of private LTE with existing infrastructure, including microwave links, IP/MPLS backhaul, and mining systems like SCADA, to deliver end-to-end connectivity that meets coverage, throughput, and latency targets for applications such as real-time telemetry and fleet management.

Essential Duties:

• Lead the analysis of client network requirements, incorporating factors like RF coverage studies, bandwidth demands, interference mitigation, and compliance with Western Australian mining regulations, including health, safety, and environmental standards.
• Design comprehensive private LTE architectures, including RAN, core network elements, microwave backhaul, and IP/MPLS integration, using tools like HTZ or Atoll for RF planning and ensuring compatibility with standards such as 3GPP and IEC 61850.
• Develop project scopes, design basis documents, and reconciliation strategies for upgrades or expansions, drawing from reference designs like LTE RDD and SDDL to support phased deployments and milestones such as AHS go-live.
• Guide the creation of test strategies, including Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), Field Integration Testing (FIT), and drive testing, simulating mining conditions to validate network performance metrics like signal strength, handover efficiency, and QoS.
• Coordinate with delivery teams on on-site implementations, providing oversight for hardware commissioning (e.g., eNodeBs, microwave radios, routers) and ensuring seamless handover with knowledge transfer and post-go-live support.
• Identify and mitigate risks in mining telecommunications projects, including supervision of high-risk activities, adherence to S26 statutory requirements, and integration with critical infrastructure like power grids and haul roads.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies, such as 5G integration, Segment Routing (SR-MPLS), SDN/NFV, and advancements in private LTE for mining, to future-proof solutions and drive innovation in projects like network optimisations and asset upgrades.
• Document architectures, topologies, RF studies, and project baselines, ensuring all designs comply with industry best practices and facilitate efficient resource allocation for fieldwork.

Additional Requirements:

• Extensive experience in mining telecommunications, with proven expertise in private LTE network design and deployment in environments like open-pit operations, including hands-on knowledge of Nokia, Cisco, or similar platforms (Nokia, HPE desirable).
• Strong understanding of microwave backhaul, IP/MPLS protocols (e.g., OSPF, BGP, RSVP-TE), and industrial protocols (e.g., Modbus, DNP3) for integration with mining systems such as AHS, SCADA, and IoT sensors.
• Familiarity with mining-specific challenges, including dust, vibration, extreme temperatures, electromagnetic interference, and regulatory frameworks like Western Australian mining laws and safety protocols.
• Proficiency in RF planning and optimisation tools (e.g., Atoll, Pathloss, TEMS) and network management platforms (e.g., Nokia NSP, Cisco DNA Centre) for comprehensive solution development.
• Ability to manage cross-functional collaborations, including with S26 supervisors, rigging crews, and external partners, while traveling frequently to remote mining sites for site surveys, design validations, and project oversight.
• Demonstrated track record in large-scale mining projects, such as network expansions for sustaining production targets or upgrades involving microwave links and LTE small cells.
• Collaboration and Reporting:
• The Solution Architect, an expert in private LTE and mining telecommunications, reports directly to the Principal Architect or senior leadership and works closely with telecommunications specialists, engineers, delivery teams, clients, and technology partners (e.g., Nokia, Cisco) to ensure holistic solution delivery. This role involves mentoring junior staff, coordinating with on-site supervisors for compliance and safety, and integrating feedback from field deployments to refine architectures.

Location:

• This role is based in Perth, Western Australia, with opportunities to work from both Osborne Park and St Georges Terrace offices and lab environments in the CBD. Frequent travel to remote mining sites across the APAC region will be required for project planning, assessments, and oversight.

Opportunity:

• Join a dynamic and innovative team dedicated to delivering cutting-edge telecommunications architectures that empower the digital transformation of the critical mineral industries. Lead mission-critical projects for Tier 1 miners and energy providers, enabling Industry 4.0 advancements, operational efficiency, safety enhancements, and sustainable practices across the APAC region.

APD is an equal opportunity employer that fosters a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion. We encourage and support our employees to bring their unique talents, backgrounds, and expertise to the table to create exceptional outcomes.

Applicants must be willing to undertake a pre-employment medical and provide proof of valid working rights in Australia.

Please note, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted