Job Title: Network Platform Architect – Wireless (Contract)
Location: Remote (Portugal-based)
Contract Duration: 6 Months (with potential extension)
Overview
We are seeking an experienced Network Platform Architect (Wireless) to join our team on a 6-month remote contract based in Portugal. This role is ideal for a highly skilled professional with deep expertise in wireless technologies, including 5G and next-generation Wi-Fi, who can design, architect, and lead the delivery of scalable, secure, and high-performance network platforms.
You will play a key role in shaping the wireless strategy, ensuring seamless integration between cellular and enterprise networks, and driving innovation across modern connectivity solutions.
Key Responsibilities
* Define and own the wireless technology roadmap, including 5G Standalone (SA) and Wi-Fi 6E/7 evolution.
* Design high-level and low-level architectures (HLD/LLD) for complex wireless environments.
* Ensure interoperability across 4G/5G, DAS, Small Cells, and enterprise WLAN infrastructures.
* Lead RF planning, modelling, and optimisation for high-density and challenging environments (e.g., campuses, warehouses, industrial sites).
* Oversee deployment and integration of Open RAN (O-RAN) and virtualized RAN (vRAN) solutions.
* Implement secure wireless connectivity for enterprise users and IoT ecosystems.
* Collaborate with cross-functional teams including cloud, security, and infrastructure engineering.
* Provide technical leadership and mentorship to engineering teams.
* Engage with stakeholders, vendors, and clients to align technical solutions with business objectives.
* Drive automation initiatives for network deployment, monitoring, and lifecycle management.
* Ensure compliance with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and best practices.
Experience & Technical Expertise
* Minimum 6+ years of experience in wireless networking, with strong exposure to 4G/5G RAN design and deployment (gNB).
* Deep knowledge of:
* 5G NR, 3GPP standards, Open RAN, vRAN
* Wi-Fi 6E/7 (802.11ax/be) and emerging technologies such as Wi-Fi HaLow (802.11ah)
* Proven experience in RF design, site surveys, and spectrum analysis using tools such as Ekahau, iBwave, or AirMagnet.
* Strong understanding of Layer 2/3 networking:
* BGP, OSPF, VLANs, QoS, IPv6
* Expertise in wireless security frameworks:
* WPA3, 802.1X, RADIUS/AAA
* Experience with:
* Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS), Small Cells, microwave links
* Cloud-managed wireless platforms (e.g., Cisco Meraki, Juniper Mist)
* Hands-on experience with automation and scripting:
* Python, Ansible, or similar tools
Additional Skills (Highly Relevant / Nice to Have)
* Experience with private 5G network deployments in enterprise or industrial settings.
* Familiarity with edge computing and MEC (Multi-access Edge Computing) architectures.
* Knowledge of network observability tools and performance monitoring (e.g., telemetry, SNMP, streaming analytics).
* Exposure to SDN/NFV architectures and intent-based networking.
* Understanding of regulatory and spectrum considerations in Europe.
* Experience integrating IoT platforms and device lifecycle management.
* Background in high availability and disaster recovery design for wireless networks.
* Familiarity with DevOps practices and CI/CD pipelines for network infrastructure.
* Experience working in multi-vendor environments.
Required Qualifications
* Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in:
* Telecommunications, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field
* Relevant certifications such as:
* CWNE / CWNA / CWSP (CWNP track)
* CCIE Wireless / Cisco Wireless Specialist
* Aruba Certified Edge Expert
* 5G or IoT certifications (e.g., Wi-Fi HaLow, private 5G training)
Key Competencies
* Strategic thinking and architecture design expertise
* Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills (RF and network-level)
* Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities
* Proven leadership in delivering complex wireless projects
* Ability to work independently in a remote, distributed environment