Principal RAN Systems Engineer
AST SpaceMobile · Lanham, MD · Yesterday
On-siteInformation TechnologyFull-time
Position Overview
We are seeking a highly experienced and technically driven Principal RAN Systems Engineer to lead the operationalization of advanced LTE and 5G capabilities within a complex, next-generation telecommunications environment. This role bridges research & development and production operations, translating system innovations into scalable, service-ready deployments while ensuring performance, reliability, and operational excellence across integrated network systems.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead end-to-end readiness and deployment of RAN features and configurations across production environments
- Define and maintain standardized configuration baselines to ensure consistent network performance and scalability
- Develop high-level design (HLD) documentation outlining system architecture, interfaces, and deployment strategies
- Drive feature enablement from development through staged production deployment, including monitoring and rollback planning
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align system integration across network, hardware, and software components
- Serve as a senior escalation point for complex technical issues, leading root cause analysis and resolution efforts
- Manage the lifecycle of critical system defects, including validation, regression testing, and production verification
- Create and maintain operational documentation, including deployment procedures and troubleshooting guides
- Support system validation, testing strategies, and performance optimization initiatives
- Act as a technical liaison with internal teams, vendors, and external partners to support system integration and feature delivery
- Contribute to continuous improvement by translating operational learnings into preventive and corrective processes
Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Communications Engineering, or a related technical field
Experience:
- A minimum of 10+ years of experience in systems engineering, RAN performance, or network architecture
- Extensive experience with LTE and/or 5G technologies in production or integration environments
- Proven experience developing system designs, configurations, and technical documentation
- Strong background in troubleshooting complex system and network issues with a focus on root cause analysis
- Experience working across multidisciplinary teams to deliver large-scale technical solutions
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with non-terrestrial or hybrid network architectures
- Background in RF systems, antenna technologies, or advanced wireless communication concepts
- Familiarity with modern network architectures such as O-RAN or similar frameworks
- Experience with interoperability across multi-vendor environments
- Knowledge of system-level modeling, performance analysis, and optimization techniques
- Experience supporting global deployments or working with external partners/operators
Soft Skills
- Strong leadership and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence cross-functional teams
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including technical documentation
- Proven ability to collaborate effectively across engineering and operational teams
- Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities
- Ability to manage multiple complex priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Meticulous attention to detail to ensure the accuracy of system configurations and deliverables
- Ownership mindset with the ability to navigate ambiguity and drive outcomes
Technology Stack
- RAN technologies (LTE, 5G NR, baseband systems, scheduling frameworks)
- Networking and interface protocols (Ethernet/IP, synchronization protocols, distributed systems)
- Modeling and analysis tools (e.g., MATLAB, Python, data analysis libraries)
- Logging, telemetry, and performance monitoring systems
- Issue tracking and documentation tools (e.g., Jira, Confluence or similar platforms)
- Standard productivity tools (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite)
Physical Requirements
- Ability to work in a standard office or technical lab environment
- Ability to sit and work at a computer for extended periods
- Ability to participate in technical troubleshooting sessions and system testing activities
- Occasional travel may be required based on project or operational needs