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Freelance Packet Core Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Network Systems Engineer

Reston, VA ยท On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

Working with OpenBSD, FreeBSD, and Packet Filter (PF) * Configuring and managing Quagga and Free ... Familiarity with core mobile networking terms and technologies If you meet the qualifications ...

... core expectation to "be kind" -a teammate who collaborates openly, communicates respectfully ... Strong troubleshooting across routing, switching, TCP/IP, asymmetric paths, latency, packet loss ...

Sr Network Engineer

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$119K - $163K/yr

Qualifications Core Competencies: . Excellent communications skills interacting with technical and ... Must possess strong understanding of packet analysis tools and be proficient at reading network ...

Network Engineer Level 5

Arlington, VA ยท Remote

$160K - $200K/yr

Operations & Troubleshooting: Provide Tier 3/4 escalation support, conducting deep-packet ... Knowledge of 5G core networking or virtualized platforms (VMware, OpenStack). * Experience with ...

Showing results 21-40

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 cities in Virginia are hiring for Freelance Packet Core Engineer jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Freelance Packet Core Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Senior Telecom Software Engineer (TS/SCI clearance)

Herndon, VA โ€ข On-site

System One
Business Consulting Servicesย โ€ขย 5 - 10K employees

$125K - $165K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Senior Telecom Software Engineer TS/SCI clearance Herndon, VA Responsibilities: • Conduct telecommunications network analysis, diagnostics, and performance remediation with expertise in protocols such as SS7, SIP, VoIP, TCP/IP, and Diameter across 2G, 3G, 4G VoLTE, and 5G networks. • Monitor and analyze telecommunications systems, interpret inbound data streams, and utilize packet capture tools like Wireshark and tcpdump to troubleshoot core network issues. • Provide technical support to the CONUS-based engineering team supporting OCONUS deployments, including analysis, findings, and remediation guidance. • Support Linux-based systems supporting telecommunications infrastructure by ensuring high availability, performance, and reliability, supporting environments on CentOS 7 transitioning to Rocky Linux. • Configure and manage system monitoring tools such as Nagios, Zabbix, or Grafana and automate system tasks using Ansible or Puppet. • Design, support, and troubleshoot software and software lifecycle issues, collaborating with development teams and supporting CI/CD pipelines using Jenkins, Jira, and Confluence. • Create installation guides and as-built documentation, and support Linux firewall and VPN configurations. Requirements: • BA, BS degree or equivalent experience in Computer Science, Telecommunications, or a related field. • 5+ years of experience in telecommunications network analysis, systems engineering, or related disciplines with senior-level expertise in telecom protocols and network operations. • Advanced proficiency with RHEL / Rocky Linux / CentOS 7 and experience supporting both environments through transition phases. • Strong understanding of mobile telecom network architectures, protocols (SS7, SIP, VoIP, TCP/IP, Diameter), and core network operations. • Experience using tools like Jenkins, Jira, Confluence, and Ansible for supporting software and hardware troubleshooting. • Proven ability to diagnose root causes of network and system performance issues and implement effective solutions. • Excellent communication skills for technical presentations and collaborations with distributed teams. System One, and its subsidiaries including Joulé and Mountain Ltd., are leaders in delivering outsourced services and workforce solutions across North America. We help clients get work done more efficiently and economically, without compromising quality. System One not only serves as a valued partner for our clients, but we offer eligible employees health and welfare benefits coverage options including medical, dental, vision, spending accounts, life insurance, voluntary plans, as well as participation in a 401(k) plan. System One is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, family care or medical leave status, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. #M1 #LI-VH1 Ref: #851-Rockville-S1


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About System One

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

System One helps employers get work done more efficiently and economically without compromising quality. Over our 35+ year history, we've helped connect thousands of talented people with innovative companies. The excitement of a perfect fit motivates us every single day.

Industry

Business consulting services and recruiting and staffing services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Pittsburgh, PA, US