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Freelance Packet Core Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Role - Packet Core Engineer Location - Plano, TX (Day 1 Onsite) Job Summary: As a Packet Core Engineer, you will play a key role in troubleshooting Core Network functions across 5GC and EPC domains.

Packet Core Engineer Introduction: As a Packet Core Engineer, you will be responsible for managing and supporting various core network elements such as EPC, 5 and related functions. You will work ...

Role - Packet Core Engineer Location - Plano, TX (Day 1 Onsite) Job Summary: As a Packet Core Engineer, you will play a key role in troubleshooting Core Network functions across 5GC and EPC domains.

5G Packet Core Engineer Location - Plano, TX (Day 1 Onsite) Full Time/Contract Job Summary: As a Packet Core Engineer, you will play a key role in troubleshooting Core Network functions across 5GC ...

IMS Core Engineer

Memphis, TN

$73K - $98K/yr

Customer Support Engineer / IMS CORE - MEMPHIS, TN _ 100% onsite Duration: 12 Months, Extendable ... REQUIREMENTS (must have): • Experience in 4G and 5G packet core operation and architecture ...

Experience with Evolved Packet Core- EPC protocols (Gx, Diameter etc.) and call flows . 3GPP Evolved Packet Core (EPC) Policy Control and enforcement architecture. Experience in Wireless networking ...

Packet core * Working on multiple mobility platforms (4G LTE, 5G, FirstNet, etc.) * Less focused on IT work like setting up firewalls and routers, but more on managing customer traffic on these ...

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

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Freelance Packet Core Engineer information

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$14

$47

$132

How much do freelance packet core engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance packet core engineer in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Freelance Packet Core Engineer vs Network Operations Center (NOC) Technician?

AspectFreelance Packet Core EngineerNetwork Operations Center (NOC) Technician
CredentialsNetworking certifications (e.g., CCNA, CCNP), LTE/5G knowledgeNetworking certifications, basic troubleshooting skills
Work EnvironmentRemote, project-based, client-specificOn-site or remote, monitoring network systems
Industry UsageTelecom, mobile network providers, freelance platformsTelecom, ISPs, enterprise networks

Freelance Packet Core Engineers focus on designing, implementing, and optimizing core network components for telecom providers, often working remotely on specific projects. NOC Technicians monitor and troubleshoot network issues in real-time, typically within a fixed environment. While both roles require networking knowledge and certifications, the freelance Packet Core Engineer emphasizes project-based work on core network infrastructure, whereas NOC Technicians focus on ongoing network maintenance and support.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Packet Core Engineer, you need expertise in mobile core network technologies (such as EPC, 4G/5G, and IP networking), typically backed by a degree in telecommunications or computer science. Proficiency with tools like Wireshark, EPC nodes (MME, SGW, PGW), and certifications from vendors like Cisco or Nokia are highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and self-management skills set standout engineers apart in client-driven environments. These skills ensure reliable network performance, efficient troubleshooting, and successful project delivery in a rapidly evolving telecom landscape.

What is a Freelance Packet Core Engineer?

A Freelance Packet Core Engineer is a telecommunications specialist who works independently (not as a full-time employee) to design, implement, and maintain packet core networks within mobile communication systems such as 4G LTE and 5G. Their role involves configuring core network elements like SGW, PGW, and MME, troubleshooting network issues, ensuring data security, and optimizing network performance. They often work with mobile operators or vendors on a project basis, providing expertise for network deployments, upgrades, or migrations. Freelance Packet Core Engineers need to have strong knowledge of networking protocols, mobile core architectures, and relevant industry standards.

What are the most common challenges faced by Freelance Packet Core Engineers when working with multiple clients?

Freelance Packet Core Engineers often face challenges such as quickly adapting to varying network architectures, managing different client expectations, and ensuring seamless integration with diverse legacy and next-generation systems. Each client may use distinct equipment and have unique security policies, requiring the engineer to rapidly familiarize themselves with new platforms and protocols. Effective communication and time management are also crucial, as freelancers often juggle several projects simultaneously while maintaining high standards of performance and documentation.
More about Freelance Packet Core Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Packet Core Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Packet Core Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Packet Core Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Packet Core Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Packet Core Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Packet Core Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Freelance Packet Core Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 40% In-person, and 60% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,230 per year, or $47.7 per hour.
Packet Core Engineer

Packet Core Engineer

Diverse Lynx

Plano, TX • On-site

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Role - Packet Core Engineer
Location - Plano, TX (Day 1 Onsite)
Job Summary:
As a Packet Core Engineer, you will play a key role in troubleshooting Core Network functions across 5GC and EPC domains. This role requires hands on expertise in deep protocol level troubleshooting, large scale Packet Core deployments, and cross functional 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 5GC and 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 call flow issues across Control Plane and User Plane domains.
Perform deep debugging using trace tools, logs, KPIs, and protocol analyzers.
Own escalations, including end to end RCA, mitigation, and long term fixes.
Validate interworking between EPC, 5GC, IMS/Messaging, Transport, and RAN.
Define automation call flows for provisioning, upgrades, scaling, and fault recovery.
Document designs, test plans, and knowledge base 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).
Hands-on expertise with Packet Core nodes (5GC + EPC) and protocols such GTPV2, GTP C/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 cross functional 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.
Diverse Lynx LLC is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive due consideration for employment without any discrimination. All applicants will be evaluated solely on the basis of their ability, competence and their proven capability to perform the functions outlined in the corresponding role. We promote and support a diverse workforce across all levels in the company.

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About Diverse Lynx

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Diverse Lynx, based in Princeton, NJ, US, is a reputable company in the Information Technology sector. The firm, as reflected through its website diverselynx.com, specializes in delivering comprehensive IT solutions. These solutions range from IT consulting to robust digital transformation strategies, IT staffing, and full-time placements services. The company was established in 2008, and it prides itself on providing simplified, efficient technology solutions designed to meet the unique needs of each client.

Industry

It services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Princeton, NJ, US

Year founded

2002

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