Senior 5G Core Network Engineer (Remote)

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

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Home office allowance

Health insurance

Paid time off

Bonuses & equity

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior 5G Core Network Engineer for a fully remote position. You will design, deploy, and optimize cloud-native 5G core networks, working with AMF/SMF/UPF and service-based interfaces.

You are experienced with Docker, Kubernetes, Python/Go, and network automation. This remote role offers global collaboration and growth opportunities within the telecoms landscape.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's in CS/EE/Telecommunications or related field.
• 7+ years in mobile core network engineering with emphasis on 5G core.
• Strong knowledge of 3GPP 5G core functions and cloud-native design.

Responsibilities

• Design, deploy and manage 5G core network elements using cloud-native principles.
• Configure AMF/SMF/UPF/NRF and other core functions in containerized environments.
• Develop automation scripts for deployment and maintenance of the 5G core.
• Ensure security, reliability, and performance of the 5G core network.
• Lead remote team and mentor junior engineers on best practices.

Skills

5G core

cloud-native

Docker

Kubernetes

network automation

Python

Go

Ansible

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/EE/Telecommunications

Master's degree in CS/EE/Telecommunications

Tools

VMware

Helm

Virtualization

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a vanguard in the telecoms sector, is seeking an accomplished Senior 5G Core Network Engineer for a fully remote opportunity. This role is paramount in the design, implementation, and optimization of the next-generation 5G core network infrastructure. You will leverage your expertise in cloud-native architectures, service-based interfaces, and virtualization technologies to build and maintain a highly available and scalable 5G core. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of 5G core network functions (AMF, SMF, UPF, NRF, etc.), containerization (Docker, Kubernetes), and network automation. You will collaborate with a global, remote team of engineers to drive innovation and ensure the seamless delivery of advanced mobile services. This is an exceptional chance to contribute to the forefront of mobile technology from anywhere, working with a company that champions remote work, innovation, and continuous professional growth within the dynamic telecoms landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, deploy, and manage 5G core network elements and functions based on cloud-native principles.
• Implement and configure key 5G core network functions (e.g., AMF, SMF, UPF, NRF, PCF) using containerized environments.
• Develop and maintain network automation scripts and tools for deployment, configuration, and management of the 5G core.
• Ensure the security, reliability, and performance of the 5G core network infrastructure.
• Troubleshoot complex network issues, perform root cause analysis, and implement effective solutions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including RAN, transport, and IT, to ensure seamless end-to-end service delivery.
• Participate in capacity planning and performance tuning of the 5G core network.
• Stay updated with the latest 5G standards, technologies, and industry best practices.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers within the remote team.
• Contribute to the development of operational procedures and best practices for 5G core network management.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in mobile core network engineering, with a significant focus on 5G core technologies.
• In-depth knowledge of 5G core network architecture, standards (3GPP), and key functions.
• Hands-on experience with cloud-native technologies, containerization (Docker, Kubernetes), and microservices architecture.
• Proficiency in network automation using scripting languages (e.g., Python, Go) and tools (e.g., Ansible, Helm).
• Experience with virtualization platforms (e.g., VMware) and network function virtualization (NFV).
• Strong understanding of IP networking, protocols, and security concepts.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills for a remote working environment.
• Experience with major telecom vendors (e.g., Ericsson, Nokia, Huawei) in 5G core deployment is a plus.

Benefits

• A highly competitive annual salary up to ZAR.
• Allowance for home office setup and expenses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Flexible working hours and generous paid time off.
• Annual performance-based bonuses and potential equity.
• Extensive opportunities for professional development, training, and attending industry conferences.
• A stimulating, innovative, and fully remote work environment.