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5G Core Network Architect Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Staff Cloud Engineer

Plano, TX ยท On-site

$180K/yr

Validate and define the best cloud solution architecture for the Dish Wireless 5G ORAN Network ... Automate the deployment of 5G CORE components. Enforce security best practices across 5G ...

Work with Solution Architects to turn solutions designed for wholesale customers into High Level ... 5G SA voice evolution and roaming capabilities. Measurement: Performance will be measured using a ...

Work with Solution Architects to turn solutions designed for wholesale customers into High Level ... 5G SA voice evolution and roaming capabilities. Measurement: Performance will be measured using a ...

Senior Software Engineer - 5G Devices

Germantown, MD ยท Hybrid

$123K - $163K/yr

Note - This position focuses on device/UE software architecture and is distinct from RAN (gNodeB/base station) or 5G Core network roles. Candidates should have device-side, client-side, or CPE ...

Analyze and optimize call flows across EPC and 5G Core. Work with network protocols including GTP, Diameter, SCTP, TCP/IP, and HTTP/2. Develop and integrate solutions aligned with 3GPP standards. Use ...

Network Architect

Tulsa, OK ยท On-site

$59.25 - $79.25/hr

JOB SUMMARY Targa Resources is looking for a Network Architect to join the Network Shared Services team with the focus on designing and implementing core network solutions. This role provides the ...

Network Architect

Brentwood, TN ยท Hybrid

$61.25 - $82/hr

Solid understanding of core network services including DNS, DHCP, NTP, and IPAM platforms (e.g., BlueCat). * Familiarity with Internet edge architecture, including BGP multihoming, DDoS mitigation ...

Network Architect

Tulsa, OK ยท Hybrid

$59 - $79.25/hr

Solid understanding of core network services including DNS, DHCP, NTP, and IPAM platforms (e.g., BlueCat). * Familiarity with Internet edge architecture, including BGP multihoming, DDoS mitigation ...

Network Architect

Tulsa, OK

$59.25 - $79.25/hr

JOB SUMMARY Targa Resources is looking for a Network Architect to join the Network Shared Services team with the focus on designing and implementing core network solutions. This role provides the ...

Network Architect

Tulsa, OK ยท On-site

$59 - $79.25/hr

Solid understanding of core network services including DNS, DHCP, NTP, and IPAM platforms (e.g., BlueCat). * Familiarity with Internet edge architecture, including BGP multihoming, DDoS mitigation ...

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5G Core Network Architect information

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How much do 5g core network architect jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for 5g core network architect in the United States is $71.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62.26 and $83.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical collaboration points between a 5G Core Network Architect and other technical teams within a telecom organization?

As a 5G Core Network Architect, you'll regularly collaborate with various technical teams such as radio access network (RAN) engineers, security specialists, software developers, and operations teams. These interactions are crucial for ensuring seamless integration of the core network with other components, aligning security protocols, and troubleshooting deployment issues. Effective communication and cross-functional teamwork are key, as you'll often participate in joint planning sessions, design reviews, and incident response meetings. This collaborative environment fosters knowledge sharing and helps deliver robust and scalable 5G solutions.

What is the difference between 5G Core Network Architect vs 5G Network Engineer?

Aspect5G Core Network Architect5G Network Engineer
Primary FocusDesigning and planning 5G core network architectureImplementing and maintaining 5G network infrastructure
Required SkillsNetwork architecture, protocol design, system integrationNetwork deployment, troubleshooting, hardware configuration
CertificationsCCNP, Cisco Certified Specialist, vendor-specific certificationsCCNA, Cisco Certified Network Associate, vendor certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, R&D, planning teamsField deployment, network operation centers

The 5G Core Network Architect focuses on designing the overall 5G core network infrastructure, ensuring scalability and security. In contrast, the 5G Network Engineer handles the deployment, configuration, and maintenance of the network hardware and software. Both roles require similar certifications and work within the telecommunications industry, but their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What is a 5G Core Network Architect?

A 5G Core Network Architect is an expert responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing the implementation of the core network infrastructure for 5G mobile networks. They ensure the network meets performance, security, and reliability standards while supporting new 5G features such as network slicing and ultra-low latency. Their role involves collaborating with engineering teams, selecting appropriate technologies, and ensuring seamless integration with existing networks. 5G Core Network Architects play a crucial role in enabling advanced mobile services and supporting the rapid evolution of telecommunications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 5G Core Network Architect, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 5G Core Network Architect, you need deep expertise in mobile networking, IP protocols, cloud-native architectures, and a relevant degree in telecommunications or computer science. Familiarity with virtualization platforms (e.g., VMware, OpenStack), orchestration tools (Kubernetes), and certifications like Cisco CCNP or Nokia NRSII are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills set apart top performers in this role. These competencies ensure robust, scalable 5G core networks that meet evolving business and technical demands.
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What cities are hiring for 5G Core Network Architect jobs? Cities with the most 5G Core Network Architect job openings:
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What job categories do people searching 5G Core Network Architect jobs look for? The top searched job categories for 5G Core Network Architect jobs are:
Senior Software Engineer - 5G Devices

Senior Software Engineer - 5G Devices

Viasat, Inc.

Carlsbad, CA โ€ข On-site

$127K - $167K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago


Viasat rating

3.4

Company rating: 3.4 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

75th of 76 rated telecommunications companies


Job description

About us
One team. Global challenges. Infinite opportunities. At Viasat, we're on a mission to deliver connections with the capacity to change the world. For more than 35 years, Viasat has helped shape how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the globe communicate. We're looking for people who think big, act fearlessly, and create an inclusive environment that drives positive impact to join our team.
What you'll do
The Viasat Access Edge Terminal Software team is responsible for the design, development, delivery and support of software running on embedded satellite terminal products (Ka-band, L-band, 5G) that are used in aviation, maritime, residential and other sectors.
We are seeking an 5G Devices Senior Software Engineer to design and develop modular software platforms for user equipment (UE) and customer premises equipment (CPE). This role focuses on device-side software architecture, integrating industry-leading 5G chipsets with custom satellite and networking capabilities to create hybrid connectivity solutions for various markets including automotive, aviation, and maritime.
Note - This position focuses on device/UE software architecture and is distinct from RAN (gNodeB/base station) or 5G Core network roles. Candidates should have device-side, client-side, or CPE development experience rather than network infrastructure expertise.
The day-to-day
Modular Software Architecture & Design
  • Design and implement modular software architectures with reusable building blocks, for devices that operate on NTN with Viasat's satellites
  • Develop software abstraction layers (HAL) and middleware that decouple application logic from modem hardware implementations
  • Create flexible, configurable software frameworks that support multiple device variants (many devices could have capabilities in addition to 5G, based on the target market), form factors, and deployment scenarios
  • Define clear interfaces and APIs between software modules to enable independent development, testing, and evolution of components
  • Balance architectural flexibility with performance requirements in resource-constrained embedded environments

5G Chipset Integration & Device Driver Development
  • Integrate 5G modem solutions from industry-leading vendors (Qualcomm, MediaTek, Intel) into device platforms and develop reference designs
  • Develop and maintain device drivers within the Linux kernel that support modem interfaces used in 5G technology (PCIe, USB, SDIO, UART)
  • Implement low-level software to control modem initialization, configuration, power management, and runtime behavior
  • Work with vendor Board Support Packages (BSP) and customize them for Viasat's specific hardware and use case requirements
  • Resolve challenging hardware-software integration faults
  • Optimize performance for latency, throughput, power consumption, and system stability

Reference Design Development
  • Design and maintain reference software architectures that serve as templates for partner-developed devices
  • Create comprehensive SDK packages including libraries, sample code, documentation, and build tools for OEM/ODM partners
  • Develop "golden reference" implementations demonstrating guidelines for building 5G NTN enabled devices compatible with Viasat's network
  • Provide technical guidance and support to external device manufacturers using reference designs
  • Ensure reference architectures are well-documented, maintainable, and follow industry standards (3GPP, GSMA)
  • Balance reference design completeness with flexibility to accommodate diverse partner and market requirements

System Integration & Validation
  • Collaborate with hardware engineering teams to define device architecture and hardware-software interfaces
  • Develop test frameworks and validation suites for 5G device software components
  • Conduct performance analysis, profiling, and optimization of end-to-end device software stack
  • Support field trials and customer deployments, slving issues and implementing fixes

Multi-Functional Leadership
  • Partner with chipset vendor Field Application Engineers (FAEs) to leverage vendor expertise and resolve technical issues
  • Collaborate with product management to translate business requirements into technical architectures
  • Work with application teams to ensure software building blocks meet upper-layer software needs
  • Mentor software engineers on 5G device technologies, driver development, and embedded systems best practices
  • Contribute to technical roadmaps and technology evaluation for future 5G device platforms

What you'll need
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related technical field
  • 8+ years of experience in embedded software development for wireless communication devices
  • 5+ years of hands-on experience with 5G/LTE modem integration or device-side cellular protocol implementations
  • Proven track record of architecting and delivering commercial 5G UE or CPE products
  • Deep understanding of 5G NR device architecture, including RF, baseband, and application processor subsystems
  • Hands-on experience integrating 5G modem chipsets from vendors like Qualcomm, MediaTek, Intel, or Samsung
  • Knowledge of 3GPP UE protocol stacks (NAS, SDAP, RRC, PDCP, RLC, MAC, PHY layers from device perspective)
  • Familiarity with 5G NR physical layer procedures, MIMO techniques, carrier aggregation.
  • Understanding of regulatory requirements (FCC, CE, carrier certifications) for 5G devices
  • Expert-level proficiency in C/C++ for embedded systems and system-level programming
  • Strong experience with Linux kernel development, including device driver implementation and kernel module debugging
  • Solid understanding of hardware interfaces: PCIe, USB, SDIO, SPI, I2C, GPIO
  • Experience with Android BSP development or embedded Linux distributions (Yocto, Buildroot)
  • Proven expertise in writing Linux kernel device drivers (character devices, network drivers, platform drivers)
  • Experience with kernel synchronization primitives, memory management, DMA, and interrupt handling
  • Ability to debug kernel-level issues using tools like ftrace, perf, crash dumps, and JTAG debuggers
  • Knowledge of device tree, ACPI, and platform-specific hardware initialization
  • Demonstrated ability to design modular, maintainable software architectures for complex embedded systems
  • Experience creating SDKs, reference designs, or platform software used by external partners
  • Strong documentation skills for technical specifications, architecture documents, and API references
  • Understanding of software design patterns, abstraction techniques, and interface design principles
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with ability to debug complex hardware-software interactions
  • Excellent communication skills to collaborate with chipset vendors, partners, and internal stakeholders
  • Experience with Agile/Scrum development methodologies
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, cross-functional team environment
  • US Citizenship or permanent residence required

What will help you on the job
  • Experience with satellite-terrestrial convergence or hybrid connectivity systems
  • Expertise in optimizing software for resource-constrained hardware
  • Experience with 5G IoT devices (NB-IoT, LTE-M) or industrial 5G applications
  • Background in wireless protocol testing and certification processes
  • Contributions to open-source projects related to wireless communications or embedded Linux
  • Knowledge of secure boot, trusted execution environments (TEE), and embedded security practices

Salary range
$165,000.00 - $260,500.00 / annually.For specific work locations within San Jose, the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, the base pay range for this role is $205,000.00- $307,000.00/ annually
At Viasat, we consider many factors when it comes to compensation, including the scope of the position as well as your background and experience. Base pay may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Additional cash or stock incentives may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Learn more about Viasat's comprehensive benefit offerings that are focused on your holistic health and wellness at https://careers.viasat.com/benefits.
EEO Statement
Viasat is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, seeking to create a welcoming and diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, genetics, age, or veteran status or any other applicable legally protected status or characteristic. If you would like to request an accommodation on the basis of disability for completing this on-line application, please click here.

ViaSat logo

About ViaSat

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Viasat, we're on a mission to deliver connections with the capacity to change the world. For more than 35 years, Viasat has helped shape how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the globe communicate.

Industry

Telecommunications

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Carlsbad, CA, US

Year founded

1986