Location: LondonCountry: UKRate: Negotiable
Role Overview
The 5G Architect is responsible for designing, implementing, and optimising end-to-end 5G network architecture, with a strong focus on 5G Standalone (SA) deployments. The role ensures high performance, scalability, ultra‑low latency, and alignment with business, security, and UK regulatory requirements.
This position supports telecom operators, vendors, and enterprise/private 5G deployments, driving the transition from Legacy 4G LTE and Non-Standalone (NSA) architectures to fully cloud‑native 5G SA networks.
Key Responsibilities
* Design and lead end-to-end 5G Standalone (SA) architecture (RAN, 5G Core, Transport, Edge, OSS/BSS integration)
* Define and execute network evolution strategy from 4G LTE and 5G NSA to 5G SA
* Architect and deploy cloud‑native 5GC using microservices‑based architecture
* Design and implement Service‑Based Architecture (SBA) in 5G Core
* Lead deployment of key 5G Core functions (AMF, SMF, UPF, NRF, PCF, NSSF, AUSF, UDM)
* Design and optimise network slicing for enterprise, IoT, URLLC, and eMBB use cases
* Implement Multi‑Access Edge Computing (MEC) for low‑latency applications
* Lead automation initiatives using CI/CD, Infrastructure as Code (IaC), and Zero‑Touch Provisioning
* Drive network virtualization (NFV) and SDN transformation programs
* Ensure compliance with 3GPP (Release 15/16/17) and UK regulatory/security standards
* Support private 5G SA deployments for Industry 4.0, smart cities, healthcare, and campus networks
* Collaborate with vendors (e.g., Ericsson, Nokia, Huawei, Samsung) on SA roadmap and integration
* Provide technical governance, architecture documentation, and design authority oversight
5G Standalone (SA) Focus Areas
* 1. 5G Core Service‑Based Architecture (SBA)
o API‑driven architecture using HTTP/2 and RESTful services
o Cloud‑native deployment on Kubernetes
o Horizontal scaling and high availability
* 2. Network Slicing & Enterprise Enablement
o End‑to‑end slice orchestration (RAN + Core + Transport)
o Dedicated UPF deployment for enterprise/private networks
o SLA‑based QoS enforcement
o Support for URLLC, mMTC, and eMBB services
* 3. Cloud‑Native & Edge Integration
o Containerised network functions (CNFs)
o Edge UPF deployment for low latency
o Integration with public/private cloud platforms
o CI/CD and DevOps practices
* 4. Security & Regulatory Compliance
o SEPP implementation for inter-PLMN security
o Enhanced subscriber data protection (UDM/AUSF)
o Lawful interception compliance
o UK telecom security requirements alignment
Required Skills & Experience
* 8+ years telecom experience, with 3+ years in 5G architecture
* Proven experience in 5G Standalone (SA) design and deployment
* Strong knowledge of:
o 5G Core functions (AMF, SMF, UPF, NRF, PCF, NSSF, AUSF, UDM)
o Service‑Based Architecture (SBA)
o Open RAN and traditional RAN
o Network slicing and MEC
o NFV, SDN, MANO frameworks
o Solid understanding of 3GPP standards (Release 15+)
o Experience with telecom vendors and system integration
o Experience migrating from EPC to 5GC
Preferred Qualifications
* Degree in Telecommunications, Electronics, Computer Science, or related field
* Certifications (preferred):
o Telecom vendor certifications (Ericsson/Nokia)
o Experience in private 5G SA enterprise deployments
Soft Skills
* Strong technical leadership and architectural governance
* Excellent stakeholder communication (technical and executive level)
* Ability to translate business requirements into 5G SA technical solutions
* Strategic thinking with hands-on delivery capability
#J-18808-Ljbffr