NETWORK INTEGRATION ENGINEER (CORE AND RAN)

Location: London

Employment Type: Full-Time

Department: Network Engineering

Role Overview:

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Network Systems Integration Engineer with a strong focus on integrating Core and Radio Access Network (RAN) components, including Traditional RAN, ORAN systems, and associated Core Network elements. This role involves installing and integrating operating systems, virtual machines, and Kubernetes clusters, as well as creating cell site configuration files and databuild from network designs. The ideal candidate will have practical experience with RAN and Core Network integration processes, configuring and deploying network elements, and ensuring seamless interoperability between them. Additionally, the candidate will contribute to innovations in the automation of integration actions, participate in Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment/Continuous Testing (CI/CD/CT) pipelines, manage network configurations, and help maintain data integrity across networks. They will also be involved in End-to-End testing of all associated network interfaces and support continual service improvement initiatives for system integration.

Key Responsibilities:

• Network Integration:

o Assist in the integration of network components, including Core, Traditional RAN, ORAN systems, RIC, and SMO.

o Install and integrate operating systems, virtual machines, and Kubernetes clusters to support network infrastructure.

o Configure and integrate network switches, firewalls, and VMs for servers, ensuring seamless operation within the network.

o Develop and manage cell site configuration files and databuild based on network design specifications.

• System Commissioning and Connectivity:

o Participate in site commissioning activities, ensuring proper setup and functionality of all network components.

o Test and validate all network interfaces, ensuring robust and reliable communication across the network.

o Conduct End-to-End testing of all associated network interfaces to ensure complete system functionality and performance.

• Performance Assessment and Optimization:

o Support system performance assessments, identifying areas for optimization to enhance network efficiency.

o Derive and implement algorithms for the automation of optimization functions within the network.

o Contribute to the development of performance monitoring tools and processes, ensuring high network reliability.

• Automation and CI/CD/CT Participation:

o Contribute to innovations in the automation of integration actions, streamlining processes and enhancing efficiency.

o Consult on and participate in the development and maintenance of CI/CD/CT pipelines to support continuous integration, deployment, and testing of network solutions.

• Configuration Management and Data Integrity:

o Manage network configuration settings and ensure they are consistently applied across all network elements.

o Participate in the development and implementation of solutions for maintaining data integrity within network operations, ensuring accuracy and reliability.

• Continual Service Improvement:

o Support continual service improvement initiatives for system integration, ensuring that processes and systems evolve to meet changing needs and improve overall service quality.

• Technical Documentation:

o Create and maintain detailed technical documentation related to network integration tasks, performance assessments, automation processes, and system configurations.

o Ensure that documentation is accurate, comprehensive, and supports operational and strategic objectives.

• Collaboration and Communication:

o Work closely with internal teams, including network operations, engineering, and documentation teams, as well as external stakeholders such as customers, partners, and suppliers.

o Communicate effectively across teams to ensure alignment with business objectives and successful project execution.

Core Competencies:

The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot complex network integration challenges. Excellent communication skills, particularly in writing and presenting technical information, are essential. Attention to detail, adaptability in a fast-paced environment, and a customer-focused mindset are critical, along with proficiency in network integration, system commissioning, automation, and optimization.

Business Acumen:

A solid understanding of project support and coordination is vital, with the ability to contribute to cost optimization strategies and market analysis. The candidate should have experience in managing stakeholder relationships and aligning integration efforts with a project’s strategic goals. Supporting revenue generation through effective integration and performance optimisation is a key focus of this role.

Technical Knowledge:

The ideal candidate should possess practical experience in integrating Radio Access Network (RAN) and Core Network components, including:

• RAN Integration:

o Knowledge of RAN architecture and components, including understanding how to configure, deploy, and optimize RAN elements like CU (Centralized Unit), DU (Distributed Unit), and RU (Radio Unit).

o Familiarity with ORAN architecture and integration processes, including understanding ORAN parameter objects.

• Core Network Integration:

o Experience with Core Network elements, including the installation and configuration of EPC (Evolved Packet Core), 5GC (5G Core), and their interaction with the RAN.

o Understanding of network functions virtualization (NFV) and software-defined networking (SDN) principles as they apply to Core Network integration.

• Automation and CI/CD/CT Processes:

o Experience contributing to automation in network integration processes, with knowledge of CI/CD/CT pipelines.

o Ability to innovate and streamline integration actions, enhancing overall efficiency and reliability.

• Interoperability and Testing:

o Experience in ensuring seamless interoperability between RAN and Core Network components, with a focus on testing various interfaces and ensuring proper communication protocols are followed.

o Familiarity with tools and techniques for testing network performance and diagnosing issues in a multi-vendor environment.

o Proficiency in conducting End-to-End tests to validate the functionality and performance of all network interfaces.

• Configuration Management and Data Integrity:

o Experience in managing network configurations and ensuring data integrity across all network operations.

• Site Commissioning:

o Experience in site commissioning, including the ability to manage the end-to-end process of bringing network sites online and ensuring their operational readiness.

Education and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Telecommunications, Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in network integration (Telecoms/IT) with a focus on Core and RAN technologies (ORAN/ Traditional RAN)

Why Join Us?

• Innovation: Be at the cutting edge of network integration, contributing to the development of advanced 5G and RAN solutions.
• Collaboration: Engage with a diverse team of experts to deliver impactful network integration projects.
• Growth: Expand your career in a fast-paced, technology-driven environment with opportunities for professional development and advancement.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit their CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience and qualifications. Please apply via [Company’s Career Portal/Email Address].

Deadline for Applications: 2nd September 2024