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5G Packet Core Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lancesoft

Customer Support Engineer - CORE

Memphis, TN · On-site

$60 - $64/hr

REQUIREMENTS (must have): • Experience in 4G and 5G packet core operation and architecture, preferably solutions. • Experience in SDM operation and architecture, preferably solutions. • ...

Glow Networks

IMS Core Engineer

Memphis, TN · On-site

$73K - $98K/yr

REQUIREMENTS (must have): • Experience in 4G and 5G packet core operation and architecture, preferably Nokia solutions. • Experience in SDM operation and architecture, preferably Nokia solutions ...

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5G Packet Core information

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How much do 5g packet core jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for 5g packet core in the United States is $59.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50.48 and $67.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by engineers working in 5G Packet Core roles?

Engineers in 5G Packet Core roles often encounter challenges such as integrating new 5G technologies with legacy systems, ensuring network reliability under high data traffic, and staying updated with rapidly evolving industry standards. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, including radio access network (RAN) and cloud infrastructure specialists, is essential to address interoperability and performance issues. Additionally, troubleshooting complex end-to-end network problems and implementing security measures are frequent aspects of the role, requiring both technical expertise and strong problem-solving skills.

What is the downside of 5G?

For a 5G Packet Core engineer, the main downsides of 5G include increased network complexity and the need for advanced skills in virtualization, software-defined networking, and security. Additionally, deployment costs are higher due to the need for dense infrastructure and upgraded hardware, which can impact project timelines and budgets.

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

Aspect5G Packet CoreNetwork Engineer
Required CredentialsNetworking certifications (e.g., CCNA, CCNP), knowledge of 5G architectureNetworking certifications, routing and switching expertise
Work EnvironmentTelecommunications companies, network service providers, data centersIT departments, telecom firms, enterprise networks
Industry UsageDesigning and managing 5G core networksMaintaining and troubleshooting network infrastructure

While both roles involve networking expertise, a 5G Packet Core specialist focuses on designing and managing 5G-specific core network components, whereas a Network Engineer handles broader network infrastructure across various technologies. The 5G Packet Core role requires specialized knowledge of 5G architecture, making it more focused on next-generation mobile networks.

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

To thrive as a 5G Packet Core Engineer, you need a solid understanding of mobile network architecture, IP networking, and telecom protocols, usually supported by a degree in telecommunications or a related field. Familiarity with network functions virtualization (NFV), cloud platforms, and hands-on experience with core network elements like AMF, SMF, and UPF, as well as certifications such as CCNA or vendor-specific credentials, are typically required. Strong analytical skills, effective problem-solving, and clear communication are vital soft skills for addressing complex network issues and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure the reliable deployment, optimization, and maintenance of high-performance 5G networks essential for service quality and innovation.

What exactly does 5G do?

5G is the fifth generation of wireless technology that provides faster data speeds, lower latency, and increased network capacity compared to previous generations. For a 5G Packet Core specialist, this involves designing, deploying, and managing the core network infrastructure that enables high-speed, reliable mobile connectivity and supports advanced services like IoT and real-time applications.

What is the 5G means?

5G in the context of a 5G Packet Core refers to the fifth generation of mobile network technology, which provides faster data speeds, lower latency, and improved connectivity for mobile devices and IoT applications. Professionals working in this field design, deploy, and maintain the core network infrastructure that supports 5G services, often requiring knowledge of network protocols, virtualization, and security. Understanding 5G technology is essential for roles involved in network architecture, engineering, and deployment.

Why is 5G called 5G?

5G is called so because it is the fifth generation of wireless technology, succeeding 4G. It offers faster speeds, lower latency, and greater capacity, enabling advanced applications like IoT and enhanced mobile broadband. Professionals working in 5G Packet Core need to understand these technological improvements and related network standards.

What is a 5G Packet Core?

A 5G Packet Core is the central part of a 5G mobile network that manages and routes data traffic between user devices and external networks such as the internet. It is responsible for key functions like mobility management, session management, authentication, and ensuring seamless connectivity as users move. The 5G Packet Core uses a cloud-native architecture, which allows for greater scalability, flexibility, and efficiency compared to previous generations. By decoupling hardware and software, it enables operators to deliver faster speeds, lower latency, and support for a massive number of connected devices.
Infographic showing various 5G Packet Core job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 28% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,638 per year, or $59.9 per hour.

Packet Core Engineer

Tech Mahindra (Americas) Inc.

Plano, TX • On-site

Other

Posted 28 days ago

Tech Mahindra rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

138th of 204 rated it services

Job description

As a Packet Core Engineer, you will play a key role in troubleshooting Core Network functions across 5and EPC domains. This role requires handson expertise in deep protocollevel troubleshooting, largescale Packet Core deployments, and crossfunctional coordination with Engineering, Operations, and Platform Teams. Experience in Messaging platform is an added advantage.

This role is ideal for someone with a unique blend of technical expertise, operational excellence, leadership skill set, and strong prioritization, facilitation, and communication skills.

In this role, you will:

  • Understand best practices for virtualized and cloud-native Core applications for mobile networks
  •  Work on 5and EPC Packet Core nodes such as AMF/MME, UPF/SGW, SMF/PGW, PCF/PCRF, UDM/HSS, DNS, and related functions.
  • Support IMS/Messaging platforms (SIP, SMSC, MMSC, RCS, VoLTE/VoNR)
  • Analyze, troubleshoot, and resolve callflow issues across Control Plane and User Plane domains.
  • Perform deep debugging using trace tools, logs, KPIs, and protocol analyzers.
  • Own escalations, including endtoend RCA, mitigation, and longterm fixes.
  • Validate interworking between EPC, 5 IMS/Messaging, Transport, and RAN.
  • Define automation call flows for provisioning, upgrades, scaling, and fault recovery.
  • Document designs, test plans, and knowledgebase material for new function introductions.

Skills, Experience and Requirements
 

As a successful 5G Core Engineer, you will have:

  • Degree in Electrical, Electronics, Computer Science, or Telecommunications Engineering (Master''s or PHD will be favorable)
  • 8–12 years of telecom experience in 5G Core and 4G EPC domains (Experience in NOKIA and Oracle products preferred).
  • Handson expertise with Packet Core nodes (5+ EPC) and protocols such GTPV2, GTPC/U, PFCP, NAS, Diameter, HTTP/2, SIP.
  • Strong troubleshooting skills in production environments.
  • Experience with virtualized/cloud infrastructures: AWS Cloud, Kubernetes, CNFs/VNFs.
  • Familiarity with orchestration, observability, and FCAPS systems.
  • Experience performing integration, debugging, testing, and optimization.
  • Strong communication, analytical thinking, and crossfunctional collaboration abilities.
  • Experience with Messaging/IMS (SIP, SMSC, MMSC, VoLTE/VoNR, RCS) is preferred.
  • Excellent interpersonal and leadership skills
  • Curious-minded person striving for continuous learning and innovation
  • Outstanding verbal and written communication skills

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