Core Network Engineer, 3GPP Wireless

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 highly skilled and motivated Core Network Engineer with deep hands-on expertise in 3GPP wireless core networks (4G LTE and 5G NR). In this role, you will be responsible for the engineering, integration, configuration, and testing of our wireless core network elements and services. You will translate architectural designs into practical deployments, ensuring the network is robust, performant, secure, and compliant with 3GPP standards. This is a critical role that requires a strong problem-solving mindset and a meticulous approach to network implementation.

Key Responsibilities

• Engineer, implement, and deploy 3GPP core network elements, including 4G LTE EPC (MME, SGW, DRA) and 5G Standalone Core (AMF, UPF, SMF, SEPP).
• Work closely with Solutions Architects to translate high-level designs into detailed engineering plans and configurations.
• Configure core network elements, interfaces, and associated services, including S1-AP, NAS, GTP-C/U, Diameter, HTTP/2, SCTP, PFCP, and 5G service-based interfaces (N1-N15).
• Implement and manage virtualized (VNF) and cloud-native (CNF) network functions across OpenStack, VMware, Kubernetes, and OpenShift environments.
• Develop and implement automation frameworks and scripts using Python, Ansible, Terraform, and Bash to streamline deployment and operational activities.
• Lead integration efforts between core network elements and adjacent domains, including RAN, transport, OSS/BSS, and third-party plat