Lead 5G Core Network Engineer - Remote

Placements24; Benoni; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Retirement plan

Performance bonuses

Remote work

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead 5G Core Network Engineer to architect, deploy, and optimize our client's 5G core network in a remote-first setting. You will drive cloud-native implementations, design modern network services, and ensure high availability across nationwide connectivity while mentoring junior engineers.

The role requires deep expertise in 5G core technologies, APIs, and virtualization, with strong scripting for automation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Telecommunications Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical discipline.
• 7+ years in mobile core network engineering, with 3+ years in 5G core technologies.
• Deep knowledge of 5G core architecture, protocols and interfaces.
• Hands-on with cloud-native tech, containers, Docker, Kubernetes.
• Proficient in network troubleshooting with Wireshark and tcpdump.
• Experience with virtualization (VMware, KVM) and NFV.
• Experience with Python or Ansible for automation.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and remote-work communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, integration, and optimization of 5G core network elements (AMF, SMF, UPF, NRF).
• Develop deployment strategies for 5G core functions in cloud-native environments.
• Troubleshoot complex network issues to ensure high availability.
• Collaborate with RAN, transport, and IT teams for end-to-end integrity.
• Define monitoring metrics and implement real-time analysis tools.
• Develop automation scripts for network provisioning and management.
• Stay updated on 5G standards and industry best practices.
• Provide mentorship to junior engineers.
• Document network configurations, procedures, and architectures.
• Participate in vendor evaluations for 5G core components.

Skills

5G core knowledge

HTTP/2

RESTful APIs

GTP-U

Cloud-native

Docker

Kubernetes

CI/CD

Wireshark

tcpdump

VMware

KVM

Python/Ansible

Education

Bachelor's degree in Telecommunications Engineering, Computer Science, or related field

Tools

Docker

Kubernetes

CI/CD tooling

Wireshark

tcpdump

VMware

KVM

Python

Ansible

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a trailblazer in the telecommunications industry, is actively seeking a highly motivated and experienced Lead 5G Core Network Engineer to join their innovative, fully remote workforce. This is a critical role responsible for the architecture, deployment, and operational excellence of our client's cutting-edge 5G core network infrastructure. You will be at the forefront of developing and implementing next-generation mobile network services, ensuring seamless connectivity and unparalleled performance for users nationwide. The position requires a deep technical understanding of 5G core technologies, cloud-native principles, and a proven track record of leading complex network projects. If you are passionate about shaping the future of mobile communication and thrive in a remote-first setting, this opportunity in Benoni, Gauteng, ZA is for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, integration, and optimization of 5G core network elements (AMF, SMF, UPF, NRF, etc.).
• Develop deployment strategies and plans for 5G core network functions in cloud-native environments (e.g., Kubernetes, OpenStack).
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex network issues, ensuring high availability and performance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including RAN, transport, and IT, to ensure end-to-end network integrity.
• Define network monitoring and performance metrics, and implement tools for real-time analysis.
• Contribute to the development of automation scripts and tools for network provisioning and management.
• Stay updated on the latest 5G standards, technologies, and industry best practices.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers within the team.
• Develop and maintain detailed documentation for network configurations, procedures, and architectures.
• Participate in vendor evaluations and selection processes for 5G core network components.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Telecommunications Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in mobile core network engineering, with at least 3 years focused on 5G core technologies.
• In-depth knowledge of 5G core architecture, protocols (e.g., HTTP/2, RESTful APIs, GTP-U), and interfaces.
• Hands-on experience with cloud-native technologies, containerization (Docker, Kubernetes), and CI/CD pipelines.
• Proficiency in network troubleshooting tools and techniques (Wireshark, tcpdump).
• Understanding of virtualization platforms (VMware, KVM) and network function virtualization (NFV).
• Experience with scripting languages such as Python or Ansible for network automation.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills, particularly in a remote setting.
• Familiarity with RAN and transport network integration is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a compelling compensation package and a flexible work environment. As a fully remote position, this role offers the freedom to work from anywhere within Benoni, Gauteng, ZA , and beyond, promoting a healthy work-life balance. You will receive a competitive salary, comprehensive medical and dental insurance, a retirement savings plan, performance-based bonuses, and opportunities for continuous learning and professional development through industry certifications and advanced training. Our client fosters a collaborative and innovative culture, empowering its employees to make a significant impact. Join a team that is shaping the future of connectivity.