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Freelance Packet Core Engineer Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

Peraton

Software Research Engineer

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$135K - $216K/yr

Our core competencies include (but are not limited to): * Program analysis, including program ... Vector Packet Processor (VPP) platform * Data Plan Development Kit (DPDK) * ELK Stack ...

Peraton

Software Research Engineer

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$104K - $166K/yr

Our core competencies include (but are not limited to): * Program analysis, including program ... Vector Packet Processor (VPP) platform * Data Plan Development Kit (DPDK) * ELK Stack ...

Peraton

Software Research Engineer

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$211K/yr

Our core competencies include (but are not limited to): * Program analysis, including program ... Vector Packet Processor (VPP) platform * Data Plan Development Kit (DPDK) * ELK Stack ...

Peraton

Software Research Engineer

Silver Spring, MD

$211K/yr

Our core competencies include (but are not limited to): * Program analysis, including program ... Vector Packet Processor (VPP) platform * Data Plan Development Kit (DPDK) * ELK Stack ...

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Freelance Packet Core Engineer information

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 key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance packet core engineer?

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 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.

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 popular job titles related to Freelance Packet Core Engineer jobs in Maryland?

For Freelance Packet Core Engineer jobs in Maryland, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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What cities in Maryland are hiring for Freelance Packet Core Engineer jobs?

Cities in Maryland with the most Freelance Packet Core Engineer job openings:

Freelance Packet Core Engineer jobs near you

Core Network Engineer (Data Center)

Bethesda, MD • On-site

Amiseq Inc.
IT Services • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Amiseq Inc.external

Other

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Job Summary

We are currently seeking a highly skilled Core Network Engineer with deep expertise in Enterprise and Data Center Networking to support the design, implementation, optimization, and operational support of its mission-critical network infrastructure. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with Cisco Nexus, Spine-Leaf architectures, BGP, OSPF, VXLAN/EVPN, MPLS, and large-scale enterprise data center environments.

This role requires a hands-on engineer who can troubleshoot complex networking issues, support infrastructure modernization initiatives, and collaborate with Cloud, Security, Systems, and Application teams to ensure highly available, secure, and scalable network services.

Key Responsibilities
  • Design, deploy, and support enterprise core and data center network infrastructure.
  • Configure and troubleshoot Cisco Nexus, Catalyst, ASR, ISR, and/or Arista networking platforms.
  • Support Layer 2 and Layer 3 networking across multiple enterprise and data center locations.
  • Implement and maintain routing protocols including BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, and MPLS.
  • Design and support modern Spine-Leaf architectures using VXLAN/EVPN technologies.
  • Configure and maintain VLANs, VRFs, STP, VPC, MLAG, HSRP, VRRP, and ECMP.
  • Perform network capacity planning, hardware refreshes, migrations, and infrastructure upgrades.
  • Troubleshoot complex production issues involving routing, switching, latency, packet loss, and network performance.
  • Partner with Cloud, Security, Server, Storage, and Application teams to deliver resilient infrastructure solutions.
  • Support change management, maintenance windows, incident response, and root cause analysis.
  • Create and maintain network diagrams, standards, operational procedures, and technical documentation.
  • Participate in on-call production support as required.
Required Qualifications
  • 8+ years of hands-on experience as a Core Network Engineer in large enterprise environments.
  • Strong experience supporting enterprise Data Center Networking infrastructure.
  • Deep understanding of:
    • TCP/IP
    • Routing & Switching
    • BGP
    • OSPF
    • EIGRP
    • MPLS
    • VXLAN/EVPN
    • Spine-Leaf Architecture
    • VLANs
    • VRFs
    • STP/RSTP/MST
    • VPC/MLAG
    • HSRP/VRRP
    • Multicast
  • Experience with Cisco Nexus 9000/7000/5000 platforms.
  • Experience with Cisco Catalyst and Cisco ASR/ISR routers.
  • Strong understanding of enterprise network security fundamentals including ACLs, VPNs, segmentation, and firewall integration.
  • Experience with DNS, DHCP, NAT, QoS, and load balancing.
  • Experience using network monitoring and troubleshooting tools such as SolarWinds, Wireshark, ThousandEyes, or similar.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with Cisco ACI.
  • Cloud networking experience in AWS and/or Azure.
  • Network automation using Python, Ansible, or Terraform.
  • Experience supporting hybrid cloud connectivity.
  • CCNP Enterprise or CCIE certification preferred.
  • Experience in Financial Services, Insurance, or other large enterprise environments.

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