Crain Lab Cellular Network Engineer

The Cellular Network Research Engineer will provide full-time, on-site support for the advanced cellular network research and development operations of the CRAIN (Communications Research and Innovation Network) laboratory at the Institute for Telecommunication Sciences (ITS). The primary responsibilities include testing, configuring, and optimizing new and prototype cellular network equipment, software, and features to support policy development and future industry deployments.

Key Responsibilities

• Configure, test, and troubleshoot IT equipment including servers, routers, switches, and specialized cellular network testing gear
• Cellular Network Prototyping, Experimentation, Integration, Testing
• Cellular Network Optimization, Configuration, Support, and Maintenance
• Cellular Systems Prototyping, Integration, and Administration
• Systems Documentation
• Changing and modifying cellular network configurations to meet project requirements
• Determining network impacts of new equipment and testing activities
• Configuring VMware virtual networking environments to support the cellular network
• Performing maintenance on cellular network equipment such as patching and updates
• Hands-on deployment and optimization of development, prototype, and new telecommunications equipment under test into the laboratory environment
• Diagnosing/troubleshooting cellular network issues
• Setup and configuration of virtual machines, including but not limited to automated configuration
• Perform upgrades of virtual machines and software while simultaneously providing a revertible backup version
• Tap, capture, and analyze IP traffic between VM interfaces instantiated in the same hardware
• Set and monitor network and hardware threshold alarms for a load tested network
• Documenting system configurations and changes
• Monitor network health and coordinate with stakeholders on changes or maintenance
• Contribute to research papers and technical documentation

Required Qualifications

• CCNA – Cisco Certified Network Associate, or equivalent certification and/or documented experience
• LFCS – Linux Foundation Certified Systems Administrator, or equivalent certification and/or documented experience
• 4+ years of network engineering experience in a work and lab environment
• Experience with Cisco switches, routers, and software defined networking
• Knowledge of VMware Nutanix, RHEV, AWS/Azure networking virtual networks, ESXi, and vCenter
• Experience with cloud computing, Datacenter, AWS/Azure or GCP networking
• Experience working with modern configuration management tools (Puppet, Ansible)

• Experience with telecom equipment from one or more of the following manufacturers:

• Nokia

• Ericsson

• Samsung

• Experience with network monitoring and performance tools

• Working and proven knowledge of programming or scripting skills (Perl, Python, Ruby)

Preferred Qualifications

• CCNP – Cisco Certified Network Professional
• RHCSA - Red Hat Certified Systems Administrator
• Firewall certification (Palo Alto/ Cisco)
• .Experience with firewall configurations, troubleshooting and CLI experience.
• Experience with server administration (Windows/Linux)
• Prior experience on 5G cellular network or 5G core network functions are desirable.

Soft Skills

• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities
• Attention to detail and ability to document system configurations and changes
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Adaptability to changing requirements and technologies

Company Information

Cherokee Nation Defense Solutions CNDS provides support, services, and solutions to federal and commercial customers. The company takes a personalized approach to solving our clients' toughest challenges, helping you make the most of your skills. CNDS is part of Cherokee Federal – a team of tribally owned federal contracting companies. For more information, visit cherokee-federal.com.

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