* About the Role
* This Role Speaks to You If... You've always been curious about how things work—especially when it comes to telecoms systems like 5G, fibre broadband, or Open RAN. Maybe you know IP/TCP/HTTP but here you will work with SCTP/ NGAP / 5G SBI in carrier grade implementations that no one else has this level of access to
Whether you've worked in the field professionally or you've been diving into open-source projects in your spare time, you're someone who enjoys breaking things down, testing their limits, and uncovering security flaws others might miss.
You're not just interested in tech
—you're passionate about it. You love the challenge of understanding complex systems, and you're driven by the thrill of building, testing, and sometimes even breaking things (ethically, of course) to make them better.
Successful Applicants must be able to commute to the UKTL offices in Solihull, Birmingham at least twice a week
We strive to offer a great work life balance - if you are looking for full time, part time or flexible options, we will try to make this work where possible. This will be dependent on the kind of role you do and part of the business you work in.
About You- What You Bring to the Table
- A solid understanding of some network protocols as well as how to build software —whether it's with low-level assembly, interpreted languages, or anything in between.
- Experience developing or working with software or hardware prototypes—you know how to turn ideas into working proof-of-concepts.
- The ability to write clear, professional reports that explain your work to peers.
- A good grasp of hardware/software development lifecycles and how they impact security.
- Familiarity with Linux systems and the self-assurance to pick up any programming language when given the right resources.
- Bonus points if you've dabbled in reverse engineering tools like IDA Pro or Ghidra.
What You'll Get To Work On
* You'll have the chance to get hands-on with cutting-edge carrier-grade Telecoms equipment like:
* 4G/5G equipment that underpins connectivity that enables modern life.
* Future fibre broadband installations
* OpenRAN tech
This is your opportunity to work at the intersection of telecoms, security, and innovation—where your curiosity and technical skills will be put to the test in meaningful, real-world ways.
Please note: Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as practical.
We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in this specific area means that nationality, residency and security requirements are more tightly defined than others. To work in this role, you will need to have a DV clearance with no restrictions, or you must have the ability to obtain a DV clearance.
UKTL is building leading edge Telecoms testing facilities to keep our telecommunications networks safe, accelerate the roll-out of new technologies, and grow our world leading telecoms sector to maintain resiliency and security.
About Us- About UK Telecoms Lab (UKTL)
Read more about UKTL
here
Successful candidates will join a state-of-the-art facility and be supporting the team conducting testing and research on the latest technologies and innovations in the industry. You will work alongside our infrastructure and Cybersecurity professionals to ensure that the UK's world class Telecoms infrastructure grows in a resilient and secure manner underpinning growth in other industry sectors.
As a trusted and independent national capability, UKTL interacts with standards bodies, Academia, and Government Departments as well as Communications Service Providers and equipment vendors.
* The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK. Find out more about what it is like working here - The measure of us - Overview
NPL and DSIT have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme.
At NPL, we believe our success is a result of the diversity and talent of our people. We strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity, as part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we ensure we're creating an environment where all our colleagues feel supported and welcome. More about this on our Diversity & Inclusion page.
We offer a wealth of above industry standard benefits, such as enhanced pension scheme, flexible working, and more that can be found here rewards, benefits and recognition. Our values are at the heart of what we do, and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success. To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we're always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please contact us.