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- Tasks: Join our Future Networks team to design and test cutting-edge Open RAN technologies.
- Company: Digital Catapult is a leading innovation centre driving the UK's digital economy.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hybrid working, generous holidays, and a performance bonus.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of Open RAN innovation while working in an inclusive and vibrant culture.
- Qualifications: Expertise in wireless systems, testing methodologies, and proficiency in RF equipment required.
- Other info: We celebrate diversity and guarantee interviews for disabled applicants meeting criteria.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 84000 £ per year.
Digital Catapult is seeking a highly skilled and forward-thinking Senior Technologist to join our pioneering Future Networks team. In this key role, you will be responsible for the design, development, and deployment of Open RAN Radio Unit (RU) conformance and certification testing capabilities within our Open Network Labs, positioning Digital Catapult at the forefront of Open RAN innovation in the UK. In this hands-on technical role, you will ensure that Open RAN RUs meet 3GPP and O-RAN specifications and industry certification programs such as those from the O-RAN Alliance. Your expertise in wireless systems, testing methodologies, and Open RAN architecture will be critical in building robust, standards-compliant testing infrastructure.
Responsibilities
- Manage and perform conformance and interoperability testing of Open RAN Radio Units (RUs), Distributed Units (DUs) according to O-RAN WG4, 3GPP standards, and certification requirements.
- Design, develop, and maintain automated test setups and cases for functional, protocol, and performance validation.
- Collaborate with O-RAN Alliance working groups and certification labs to align test procedures and participate in validation events.
- Analyze test results using RF test equipment and protocol analysis tools.
- Generate test plans, validation reports, and technical documentation for stakeholders and certification bodies.
- Stay updated on industry developments and advise on RU testing roadmap and tooling.
- Validate Open Fronthaul interfaces, including Control, User, Synchronization, and Management planes, ensuring compliance with O-RAN specifications.
- Extensive experience in conformance and certification testing of Open RAN Radio Units in line with OTIC procedures and standards.
- Deep understanding of 3GPP 38.141 series, O-RAN specifications, and conformance testing procedures.
- Develop and execute test plans aligned with O-RAN ALLIANCE and OTIC lab processes.
- Proficient in RF test and measurement equipment such as signal generators, spectrum/network analysers (e.g., Rohde & Schwarz, Keysight, Anritsu), and Open RAN testing platforms (e.g., Keysight Open RAN Studio).
- Experience with test automation and scripting using Python, Bash, or similar languages.
Application deadline: Friday 11th July
Commitment to Diversity
We value diversity and aim to build an organization reflective of UK society. We welcome applications from neurodivergent candidates, minority groups, and those with varying levels of experience who demonstrate the requisite skills. As part of the Disability Confident Scheme, we guarantee interviews for disabled applicants meeting minimum criteria. Please discuss any adjustments needed for the interview process.
Why Join Us
- Top 100 UK workplaces, recognized in tech and large organizations
- Performance bonus of 5%
- Disability Confident Level 1 employer
- Generous holiday package: 25 days plus bank holidays and additional days between Christmas and New Year
- Double-matched pension up to 10%
- Benefits scheme including health plans, private medical insurance, holiday purchase, and more
- Additional perks: E-Vehicle Scheme, Cycle2Work, Tech Scheme, gym discounts, and others
- Life insurance at 4x salary
- Access to EAP & Financial Wellbeing advice
- Enhanced parental leave
- Hybrid working model with flexible onsite requirements
- Investment in learning and development
- Regular social events and office snacks
Our culture promotes inclusivity, employee feedback, and engagement through various affinity groups and initiatives. We celebrate diversity and foster a vibrant community through events, sports, and volunteering activities.
Senior Technologist - Future Networks employer: Digital Catapult Group
Contact Detail:
Digital Catapult Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Technologist - Future Networks
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest developments in Open RAN technology and standards. This will not only help you understand the role better but also allow you to engage in informed discussions during interviews, showcasing your passion and knowledge in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the Open RAN community, especially those involved with the O-RAN Alliance. Attend relevant conferences or webinars to connect with industry experts, which can provide insights and potentially lead to referrals for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your hands-on experience with RF test equipment and automation tools. If you have personal projects or previous work that involved using tools like spectrum analysers or scripting in Python, be ready to discuss these in detail to highlight your practical skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest certification requirements and testing methodologies related to Open RAN. Being able to speak knowledgeably about current trends and challenges in the industry will set you apart as a candidate who is proactive and well-informed.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Technologist - Future Networks
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Senior Technologist position. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and required skills, particularly around Open RAN and conformance testing.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in wireless systems, testing methodologies, and any specific projects related to Open RAN. Use keywords from the job description to ensure your CV aligns with what Digital Catapult is looking for.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for Open RAN technology and your expertise in the field. Mention specific achievements or projects that demonstrate your ability to meet the requirements outlined in the job description.
Highlight Continuous Learning: In your application, emphasise your commitment to staying updated on industry developments. Mention any relevant courses, certifications, or workshops you've attended that relate to Open RAN and conformance testing.
How to prepare for a job interview at Digital Catapult Group
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your experience with Open RAN technologies and 3GPP standards. Highlight specific projects where you've managed conformance testing or developed automated test setups, as this will demonstrate your hands-on skills and understanding of the role.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Industry Standards
Make sure you have a solid grasp of O-RAN specifications and the relevant certification processes. Being able to articulate how these standards impact testing methodologies will show that you're not just technically proficient but also aligned with industry expectations.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in real-world scenarios. Think about challenges you've faced in previous roles related to RF testing or protocol analysis, and be ready to explain how you overcame them.
✨Demonstrate Collaborative Skills
Since the role involves working with various teams and external bodies like the O-RAN Alliance, be ready to discuss your experience in collaborative environments. Share examples of how you've successfully worked with others to achieve common goals in testing and validation.
