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Ran Performance Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

RAN Systems Engineer

Lanham, MD · On-site

$100K - $137K/yr

Position Overview We are seeking a RAN System Engineer to participate in definition, integration ... Own cell- and network-level performance modeling, including: * Spectral efficiency * Cell density ...

Position Overview We are seeking a RAN System Engineer to participate in definition, integration ... Own cell- and network-level performance modeling, including: * Spectral efficiency * Cell density ...

Position Overview The RAN Deployment Engineer is responsible for executing all deployment ... Execute acceptance tasks including functional testing, performance validation, and documentation ...

Position Overview The RAN Deployment Engineer is responsible for executing all deployment ... Execute acceptance tasks including functional testing, performance validation, and documentation ...

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Ran Performance Engineer information

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How much do ran performance engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for ran performance engineer in the United States is $60.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49.28 and $68.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Ran Performance Engineer do?

A RAN Performance Engineer is responsible for monitoring, analyzing, and optimizing the performance of Radio Access Networks (RAN) in mobile telecommunications. They ensure that the network delivers high-quality service by identifying and resolving issues related to coverage, capacity, and interference. Their job involves working with network data, conducting drive tests, and recommending improvements to enhance user experience. RAN Performance Engineers often collaborate with other teams to implement upgrades and maintain compliance with industry standards.

What are some typical challenges a Ran Performance Engineer faces when optimizing cellular network performance?

Ran Performance Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing network capacity with quality of service, especially during peak usage times. They must analyze large volumes of performance data to identify issues like dropped calls or slow data rates and implement timely solutions. Additionally, collaborating with cross-functional teams—including RF engineers and operations staff—is crucial for troubleshooting and deploying network upgrades. Staying updated on evolving technologies and vendor-specific tools also plays a key role in overcoming day-to-day technical challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Ran Performance Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a RAN (Radio Access Network) Performance Engineer, you need a strong background in telecommunications engineering, cellular network technologies (such as LTE, 5G), and data analysis, often supported by a relevant degree. Proficiency with network monitoring tools (like TEMS, Actix, or Nemo), drive test equipment, and performance management systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help in identifying and resolving network issues and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure optimal network performance, high service quality, and customer satisfaction in a rapidly evolving telecom environment.

What is the difference between Ran Performance Engineer vs Radio Network Performance Engineer?

AspectRan Performance EngineerRadio Network Performance Engineer
CertificationsTypically includes certifications like Nokia, Ericsson, or vendor-specific trainingSimilar certifications focused on radio network technologies
Work EnvironmentWorks primarily on RAN hardware, software, and network optimizationFocuses on radio access network performance, coverage, and quality
Industry UsageCommon in telecom operators, network vendors, and service providersUsed interchangeably in telecom industry, often with overlapping roles

Both roles focus on optimizing radio access network performance, but the Ran Performance Engineer emphasizes overall RAN systems, while the Radio Network Performance Engineer concentrates on radio-specific issues. They often share skills and certifications, making their roles closely related in the telecom industry.

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What states have the most Ran Performance Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Ran Performance Engineer jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Ran Performance Engineer jobs look for?

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Infographic showing various Ran Performance Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 49% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $125,019 per year, or $60.1 per hour.

RAN Systems Engineer

AST SpaceMobile

Lanham, MD • On-site

$100K - $137K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

AST SpaceMobile is building the first and only global cellular broadband network in space to operate directly with standard, unmodified mobile devices based on our extensive IP and patent portfolio and designed for both commercial and government applications. Our engineers and space scientists are on a mission to eliminate the connectivity gaps faced by today's five billion mobile subscribers and finally bring broadband to the billions who remain unconnected.
Position Overview
We are seeking a RAN System Engineer to participate in definition, integration, optimization, and product roadmap execution of LTE/5G radio systems across our global satellite-ground infrastructure-the first and only space-based cellular broadband network accessible directly by standard mobile phones.
This role sits at the intersection of beamforming, fronthaul design, scheduler behavior, and interference management, while also owning the translation of system capabilities into a coherent product roadmap and serving as a trusted technical interface to customers and partners.
The ideal candidate brings deep experience from a leading RAN vendor, a strong understanding of baseband design and scheduling pipelines, and the ability to bridge engineering realities with customer expectations in a fast-moving, non-traditional deployment environment.
Key Responsibilities
  • Ensure robust operation of terrestrial RAN features-such as scheduling, MIMO, mobility, and interference coordination-when deployed over AST's space-based infrastructure via standard CPRI/eCPRI interfaces.
  • Own cell- and network-level performance modeling, including:
    • Spectral efficiency
    • Cell density and reuse strategies
    • Beam transitions and UE tracking
    • Interference prediction and mitigation
    • Scaled ground GW operation
  • Drive feature provisioning end-to-end-from requirements definition and vendor engagement through integration, validation, and controlled enablement across the network-ensuring new capabilities are introduced reliably and without degrading existing performance.
  • Manage customer and partner expectations by translating complex system constraints and development timelines into clear, honest, and actionable communications; serve as the primary technical point of contact for feature-related inquiries from operators, partners, and key stakeholders.
  • Collaborate with system integration, DSP, RF, and core network teams to align baseband behavior with AST's product goals.
  • Define test strategies and validation plans that ensure system-wide performance across the satellite, ground, and RAN layers.
  • Serve as a key technical interface to RAN vendors and partners, participating in debugging, integration workshops, and roadmap alignment.
  • Lead end-to-end RAN performance optimization by analyzing and tuning eNB/gNB behavior to maximize cell throughput (TpT), coverage, reliability, and interference efficiency.

Qualifications
Education:
  • BSc or MSc in Electrical Engineering, Communications Engineering, or related field from a recognized institution.
  • Relevant certifications in cellular systems or wireless communications (e.g., 3GPP, LTE/5G) are a plus.

Experience:
  • A minimum of 5 years in cellular system engineering, RAN performance, or architecture roles (including vendor-side experience).
  • Proven experience in real cellular network deployment and optimization (lab and field).
  • Expertise in 3GPP specifications for 4G and 5G, with hands-on interpretation and application to system design.
  • Demonstrated experience owning or co-owning a technical product roadmap, including prioritization under uncertainty and communication of trade-offs to non-engineering stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with non-terrestrial networks (NTN) or space-ground hybrid architecture.
  • Hands-on background with beamforming systems, antenna arrays, and RF front-end constraints.
  • Familiarity with traffic modeling, scheduler design, and spectral efficiency optimization at scale.
  • Experience working with RAN vendors (e.g., integration, debugging, feature enablement).
  • Knowledge of fronthaul protocols (CPRI/eCPRI) and transport considerations in constrained or high-latency environments.
  • Background in predictive modeling, data science, or simulation frameworks for network planning.
  • Exposure to O-RAN architectures and vendor interoperability.
  • Experience interfacing directly with MNO customers or enterprise partners on capability delivery, timeline commitments, or technical pre-sales engagements.

Soft Skills
  • Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to lead cross-functional technical discussions (DSP, RF, Systems, Core).
  • Proven ability to collaborate effectively within distributed, multidisciplinary teams.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills; able to distill complex concepts for technical and executive audiences.
  • Meticulous attention to detail to ensure the accuracy of models, documentation, and deliverables.
  • Analytical problem solver with a bias toward measurable outcomes and system-wide impact.
  • Ownership mindset; comfortable navigating ambiguity in cutting-edge, non-traditional deployments.

Technology Stack
  • RAN & Baseband: eNB/gNB stacks, scheduler frameworks, MIMO/beamforming, HARQ, CQI/PMI/RI, mobility and ICIC/eICIC/CoMP.
  • Interfaces & Transport: CPRI/eCPRI, O-RAN interfaces, Ethernet/IP transport, timing/synchronization (PTP, GPS).
  • Modeling & Simulation: MATLAB, Python, NumPy/Pandas, simulation tools for link/system-level performance.
  • Data & Visualization: Jupyter, data pipelines for KPI analysis; familiarity with logging/telemetry systems.
  • Standards & Specs: 3GPP (LTE/NR), NTN-related specs, vendor roadmaps and interoperability frameworks.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to work in a standard office environment and use a computer for extended periods.
  • Ability to participate in lab testing environments with standard RF and baseband equipment.
  • Ability to lift up to 25lbs
  • May require occasional travel for integration workshops, vendor engagements, customer visits, or field validations.

This job description may not be inclusive to the duties and responsibilities listed. Additional tasks may be assigned to the employee from time to time or the scope of the job may change as needed by business demands.
AST SpaceMobile is an Equal Opportunity, at will Employer; employment is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.