Core Network Engineer, 3GPP Wireless

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Core Network Engineer, 3GPP Wireless based in United States.

This is a senior telecommunications engineering role focused on building and operating advanced 4G LTE and 5G wireless core networks.

You will translate network architectures into robust, scalable deployments and lead integration across RAN, transport, OSS/BSS, and third-party systems.

The role combines hands-on configuration, automation, testing, troubleshooting, and performance optimization across virtualized and cloud-native environments.

You will work with technologies spanning EPC, 5G Standalone Core, Kubernetes, OpenShift, OpenStack, VMware, and major cloud platforms.

Your expertise will help deliver reliable connectivity while maintaining strong security, interoperability, and 3GPP compliance.

The environment is highly collaborative and technically demanding, with opportunities to support emerging technologies such as satellite connectivity and Direct-to-Device networks.

This role is ideal for an experienced core-network specialist who enjoys solving complex problems and turning sophisticated architectures into operational systems.

Accountabilities

• Engineer, configure, integrate, test, and deploy 4G LTE EPC and 5G Standalone Core network elements, including MME, SGW, DRA, AMF, UPF, SMF, and SEPP.
• Translate high-level network architectures into detailed engineering plans, configurations, implementation procedures, and deployment activities.
• Configure and troubleshoot core network interfaces and protocols, including S1-AP, NAS, GTP-C/U, Diameter, HTTP/2, SCTP, PFCP, and 5G service-based interfaces.
• Deploy and manage virtualized and cloud-native network functions across Kubernetes, OpenShift, OpenStack, and VMware environments.
• Develop automation frameworks and operational tooling using Python, Ansible, Terraform, and Bash to improve deployment efficiency and consistency.
• Lead integration between wireless core elements and adjacent domains, including RAN, transport, OSS/BSS, and external platforms.
• Design and execute FAT, SIT, UAT, functional, performance, regression, interoperability, and stress-testing programs.
• Investigate complex technical issues, perform root-cause analysis, coordinate corrective actions, and provide expert support during operational incidents.
• Monitor network KPIs and performance indicators to identify bottlenecks, optimize services, and improve network reliability.
• Support proof-of-concepts, field trials, new technology evaluations, and emerging wireless initiatives.
• Collaborate with vendors, architects, engineering teams, and operations groups to resolve issues and deliver integrated solutions.
• Maintain engineering documentation, including configuration guides, MOPs, test plans, test reports, as-built diagrams, and operational procedures.
• Ensure deployments align with 3GPP standards, security requirements, network-hardening practices, and internal operational guidelines.
• Drive continuous improvements across network deployment, integration, automation, testing, and operational processes.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Telecommunications, or a related technical discipline.
• 10+ years of hands-on telecommunications experience, with significant expertise in engineering, integration, configuration, and testing of 3GPP wireless core networks.
• Proven experience supporting large-scale 4G LTE EPC and/or 5G Standalone Core deployments.
• Extensive experience with core network solutions from major telecommunications vendors such as Ericsson, Nokia, Samsung, or Mavenir.
• Advanced understanding of 3GPP standards for 4G LTE Releases 8-15 and 5G Releases 15-18, including architectures, signaling procedures, and call flows.
• Strong expertise in core network protocols and interfaces, including S1-AP, NAS, GTP-C/U, Diameter, HTTP/2, SCTP, and PFCP.
• Hands-on experience deploying VNF and CNF network functions across Kubernetes, OpenShift, OpenStack, and VMware.
• Experience with wireless roaming, Diameter signaling, and inter-PLMN connectivity.
• Strong knowledge of IP networking, routing protocols such as BGP and OSPF, and Quality of Service mechanisms.
• Proficiency with Python, Ansible, Terraform, and Bash for network automation and operational scripting.
• Familiarity with AWS, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform, and cloud-native networking concepts.
• Experience with network troubleshooting and performance-analysis tools such as Wireshark, protocol analyzers, and monitoring platforms.
• Strong understanding of network security principles, infrastructure hardening, and secure deployment practices.
• Experience with Direct-to-Device, Non-Terrestrial Networks, satellite connectivity, or other emerging wireless technologies is highly desirable.
• Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving abilities, combined with exceptional attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Self-motivated, proactive, accountable, and comfortable working independently while managing multiple priorities.
• Ability to take initiatives from concept through implementation in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
• Ability to work in office and laboratory environments, use a computer for extended periods, lift up to 25 lbs., and travel occasionally for field trials, proof-of-concepts, or integration activities.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation and an opportunity to work on advanced 3GPP wireless and next-generation connectivity technologies.
• Remote work opportunity within the United States, with flexibility depending on operational and business requirements.
• Exposure to cutting-edge 4G, 5G, cloud-native, satellite, and Direct-to-Device networking technologies.
• Opportunities to contribute to large-scale connectivity initiatives and emerging wireless architectures.
• Collaborative environment involving network architects, engineers, vendors, and cross-functional technical teams.
• Opportunities to support proof-of-concepts, field trials, technology evaluations, and innovative network deployments.
• Equal employment opportunity and consideration based on qualifications, competence, and professional merit.
• Reasonable accommodations are available for qualified individuals who need assistance during the application or employment process.