Lead 5G Network Architect

Placements24; United States; Remote; USD 180,000 - 250,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Remote work stipend

Health insurance

Generous remote work budget

Professional growth & certifications

Flexible hours for global teams

Access to cutting-edge 5G R&D

Company-provided equipment

Unlimited vacation

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead 5G Network Architect to shape the future of nationwide, remote-enabled 5G networks. You will design scalable architectures spanning core, RAN, and edge, guiding technology selection and roadmaps for secure, high-performance services.

The role requires a strong track record in 5G standards, NFV/SDN, Docker/Kubernetes, and multi-cloud deployments. You will mentor a team and collaborate across engineering, operations, and product teams to drive execution.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field; equivalent practical experience will be considered.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in telecommunications network design and architecture, with at least 5 years focused on 5G technologies.
• Demonstrated expertise in 5G Core (5GC), RAN (e.g., O-RAN, vRAN), and IP networking.
• In-depth knowledge of virtualization technologies (NFV/SDN) and containerization (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes).
• Experience with cloud-native architectures and multi-cloud environments.
• Strong understanding of network security principles and implementation in 5G systems.
• Proven ability to lead complex technical projects and mentor engineering teams.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and architecture of scalable, reliable 5G networks across core, RAN, and transport layers.
• Define 5G network strategies, roadmaps, and technology selection criteria.
• Develop frameworks for network slicing, edge computing, and IoT services.
• Evaluate and integrate new 5G technologies, standards, and vendor solutions.
• Collaborate with engineering, operations, and product management for lifecycle management.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of network architects and engineers.
• Analyze network performance metrics and identify optimization opportunities.
• Develop architectural documentation including high-level designs and specs.
• Conduct feasibility studies and PoC trials for emerging 5G capabilities.
• Ensure designs comply with security best practices and regulatory standards.

Skills

5G Core (5GC)

RAN (O-RAN/vRAN)

Network architecture

Leadership/mentoring

Cloud-native

NFV/SDN

Security in 5G

Multi-cloud

Communication skills

Education

Master's or PhD in EE/CS

Tools

Docker

Kubernetes

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in the telecommunications industry, is looking for an exceptional Lead 5G Network Architect to join their expanding, remote-first team. This critical role involves shaping the future of 5G technology, focusing on the design and strategic evolution of our client's 5G network infrastructure. You will be instrumental in developing innovative architectural blueprints that support advanced mobile services, IoT applications, and ultra-low latency communications. This is a fully remote position, offering unparalleled flexibility to talented professionals across the nation, with a specific need for expertise to guide development for operations that will serve areas like Rustenburg. We are seeking a visionary leader with extensive experience in mobile core networks, radio access networks (RAN), and edge computing. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of 5G standards, network slicing, and virtualization technologies, driving the deployment of high-performance, secure, and scalable 5G solutions. Your expertise will directly influence the company's technological roadmap and competitive edge in the evolving telecommunications landscape. This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact from anywhere.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and architecture of scalable, reliable, and high-performance 5G networks, encompassing core, RAN, and transport layers.
• Define 5G network strategies, roadmaps, and technology selection criteria to meet business objectives.
• Develop architectural frameworks for network slicing, edge computing, and advanced IoT services.
• Evaluate and integrate new 5G technologies, standards, and vendor solutions.
• Collaborate closely with engineering, operations, and product management teams to ensure successful implementation and lifecycle management.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of network architects and engineers.
• Analyze network performance metrics and identify areas for optimization and enhancement.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive architectural documentation, including high-level designs and detailed specifications.
• Conduct feasibility studies and proof-of-concept trials for emerging 5G capabilities.
• Ensure network designs comply with security best practices, regulatory requirements, and industry standards.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field; equivalent practical experience will be considered.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in telecommunications network design and architecture, with at least 5 years focused on 5G technologies.
• Demonstrated expertise in 5G Core (5GC), RAN (e.g., O-RAN, vRAN), and IP networking.
• In-depth knowledge of virtualization technologies (NFV/SDN) and containerization (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes).
• Experience with cloud-native architectures and multi-cloud environments.
• Strong understanding of network security principles and implementation in 5G systems.
• Proven ability to lead complex technical projects and mentor engineering teams.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in developing strategic technology roadmaps and business cases.
• Familiarity with global 5G standards and regulatory landscapes.
• This is a fully remote position, requiring self-discipline and strong remote collaboration skills.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary with potential for performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous remote work stipend for home office setup.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth, training, and certifications.
• Flexible working hours to accommodate global collaboration.
• Access to cutting-edge 5G research and development projects.
• Contributory retirement savings plan.
• Unlimited vacation policy.
• Company-provided high-performance laptop and mobile device.
• Regular virtual team-building events and social activities.