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Layer 3 Communications Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nokia

5G gNB Layer 2 and Layer 3 Developer

Coppell, TX · On-site

$105K - $195K/yr

Join our Strategy and Technology Space Communication Solutions team as a 5G gNB Layer 2 and Layer 3 (L2/L3) Developer and play a pivotal role in advancing 5G technology! Collaborate closely with ...

Nokia

5G gNB Layer 2 and Layer 3 Developer

Coppell, TX · Hybrid

$50.50 - $65.25/hr

Join our Strategy and Technology Space Communication Solutions team as a 5G gNB Layer 2 and Layer 3 (L2/L3) Developer and play a pivotal role in advancing 5G technology! Collaborate closely with ...

Nokia

5G NR UE Layer 2 and Layer 3 Developer

Plano, TX · On-site

$105K - $195K/yr

... * 3 years of experience in developing and optimizing Layer 2 and Layer 3 protocols for 4G/5G UE ... Effective communication and teamwork abilities. * Ability to work independently and manage tasks ...

Iberdrola

Lead Telecom Network Architect

Vestal, NY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Acquisition, analysis, documentation, implementation, scheduling, and support of layer 1 to layer 3 communications hardware, software, and their facilities. * Design advanced MPLS networks for both ...

Iberdrola

Lead Telecom Network Architect

Rochester, NY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Acquisition, analysis, documentation, implementation, scheduling, and support of layer 1 to layer 3 communications hardware, software, and their facilities. * Design advanced MPLS networks for both ...

KCI Telecommunications

Network Engineer III

... communication is essential. What You'll Do * Access and navigate network devices to perform ... Apply engineered Layer 3/Layer 4 routing architecture across enterprise routing and switching ...

JCS Solutions LLC

Network Engineer

MD · On-site

$105K - $114K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Support enterprise Layer 2 and Layer 3 network environments. * Coordinate with vendors to resolve ... Strong analytical, troubleshooting, communication, and customer service skills. How you will wow us:

TriOptus LLC

Network/Data Engineer - Senior

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$100K - $137K/yr

Responsible for the management of the interoperability between Cisco and Juniper Layer 3 Platform ... Support Systems, and Data Communications Network Technology platforms. * Advanced WAN ...

JCS Solutions LLC

Network Engineer

Andrews, MD · On-site

$105K - $114K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Support enterprise Layer 2 and Layer 3 network environments. * Coordinate with vendors to resolve ... Strong analytical, troubleshooting, communication, and customer service skills. How you will wow us:

TriOptus LLC

Network/Data Engineer - Senior

Delray Beach, FL · On-site

$97K - $133K/yr

... and communications projects involving TCP/IP and related protocol connectivity for networks ... Juniper Layer 3 Platform, through the use of alarm and ticket systems, individual designed ...

TriOptus LLC

Network/Data Engineer - Senior

Lake Mary, FL · On-site

$90K - $124K/yr

... and communications projects involving TCP/IP and related protocol connectivity for networks ... Juniper Layer 3 Platform, through the use of alarm and ticket systems, individual designed ...

Infojini Inc

Network Analyst

Clearwater, FL · On-site

... 3 and Layer 2 configuration and management Disaster Recovery - Networking Bandwidth monitoring and capacity planning Extensive knowledge of Internet Protocols, communication protocols, data and ...

PB consulting

OK · On-site

Perform VLAN configuration, Layer 3 routing, IP addressing, and subnetting. * Manage network provisioning, circuit coordination, and carrier communication. * Monitor network performance using network ...

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Layer 3 Communications information

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$26K

$31.5K

How much do layer 3 communications jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for layer 3 communications in the United States is $31,873.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28,500.00 and $29,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in Layer 3 Communications roles, and how can candidates prepare to address them?

Professionals in Layer 3 Communications roles often encounter challenges such as managing complex routing protocols, ensuring network security, and troubleshooting issues across large-scale enterprise networks. Candidates can prepare for these challenges by gaining hands-on experience with routers and switches, staying current with evolving protocols like OSPF and BGP, and developing strong analytical skills for diagnosing connectivity problems. Effective communication and collaboration with other IT teams are also crucial, as Layer 3 specialists frequently coordinate with network engineers, security analysts, and support staff to maintain seamless operations.

What is the difference between Layer 3 Communications vs Network Engineer?

AspectLayer 3 CommunicationsNetwork Engineer
CertificationsCCNA, CCNP, Cisco certificationsCCNA, CCNP, Cisco certifications, CompTIA Network+
Work EnvironmentTelecommunications companies, ISPs, enterprise networksIT departments, service providers, corporate networks
ResponsibilitiesManaging routing, switching, and network infrastructure at Layer 3Designing, implementing, and maintaining network systems

Layer 3 Communications professionals focus on routing, switching, and network infrastructure at the network layer, often within telecom and ISP environments. Network Engineers have a broader scope, including designing and troubleshooting entire networks, often requiring similar certifications. Both roles require networking knowledge, but Layer 3 Communications specialists typically work more on the infrastructure side within telecom contexts, while Network Engineers may work across various industries and network types.

What is Layer 3 communications?

Layer 3 communications refer to the processes that occur at the network layer (Layer 3) of the OSI model. This layer is responsible for routing data between devices across different networks, using logical addressing such as IP addresses. Routers and layer 3 switches operate at this level, determining the best path for data packets to travel. Layer 3 communications ensure that information can be sent and received between networks, regardless of their underlying physical structures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Layer 3 Communications engineer?

To thrive as a Layer 3 Communications Engineer, you need a strong understanding of networking protocols (especially TCP/IP), routing, switching, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with network hardware, routers, firewalls, and certifications like Cisco CCNP or equivalent are commonly required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you diagnose issues and work with cross-functional teams. These competencies ensure the design, implementation, and maintenance of reliable and secure network infrastructures essential for organizational connectivity.
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What cities are hiring for Layer 3 Communications jobs?

Cities with the most Layer 3 Communications job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Layer 3 Communications jobs?

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What job categories do people searching Layer 3 Communications jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Layer 3 Communications jobs are:

Layer 3 Communications jobs near you
Infographic showing various Layer 3 Communications job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,873 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

5G gNB Layer 2 and Layer 3 Developer

Nokia

Coppell, TX • On-site

$105K - $195K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Nokia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 98 rated telecommunications companies

Job description


Join our Strategy and Technology Space Communication Solutions team as a 5G gNB Layer 2 and Layer 3 (L2/L3) Developer and play a pivotal role in advancing 5G technology! Collaborate closely with systems engineers, testers, and hardware teams in a hybrid work environment, tackling challenges in 5G NR L2/L3 development. You'll contribute to a forward-thinking team that drives innovative technology solutions, shaping the future of mobile communication. Enjoy a flexible work arrangement, professional development opportunities, and the chance to work on groundbreaking projects that set new industry standards. Join us in creating lasting value in the world of telecommunications!
Responsibilities
  • Develop and optimize 5G NR Layer 2/Layer 3 functionalities including MAC, RLC, PDCP, RRC, and NGAP.
  • Implement advanced L2 scheduling algorithms, HARQ mechanisms, and efficient buffer management.
  • Collaborate on the development of UE and gNB L2/L3 stacks, ensuring robust protocol compliance and performance.
  • Optimize network performance by enhancing throughput, reducing latency, and improving handover processes.
  • Debug and troubleshoot protocol stack behaviors using logs and advanced tracing tools.
  • Integrate and test L2/L3 software with the physical layer (PHY) and core network (5GC) to ensure seamless operations.

Qualifications
You have:
  • 3+ years of experience in 5G NR or LTE RAN development (L2/L3)
  • Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field.
  • Strong programming skills in C, C++, and experience with multi-threaded and real-time systems.
  • Deep understanding of MAC, RLC, PDCP, RRC, NGAP protocols.
  • Experience with L2 scheduling, HARQ, QoS, and mobility management.
  • Familiarity with 3GPP (Rel-15 and later) specifications.
  • Strong debugging skills with tools like Wireshark, TShark, QXDM, or similar.
  • Experience in real-time OS (RTOS) or Linux kernel networking stack.

It would be nice if you also had:
  • Knowledge of DPDK, VPP, or other high-performance packet processing frameworks is a plus.
  • Experience in O-RAN, Open RAN, or vRAN architectures is a plus.

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