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- Tasks: Manage and optimise cutting-edge IMS and 5G core networks for top UK telecoms.
- Company: First Point Group, a leader in telecom recruitment with a remote-first culture.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, fully remote work, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and shape the future of next-gen network technology.
- Qualifications: Experience with IMS Core and 5G networks, plus strong troubleshooting skills.
- Other info: Ideal for tech-savvy individuals looking to make an impact in telecom.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
First Point Group is recruiting for a Core Network Engineer (Ericsson/Nokia) with specific previous experience working on Virgin Media / VMO2 and/or BT/EE networks and projects. The successful candidate will have extensive experience within operational support, optimisation, and evolution of a next-generation IMS and 5G core network. This is a fully remote role based on a daily rate contract. Please note - sponsorship cannot be provided, so candidates must live in the UK with valid rights to work.
Responsibilities
- Perform daily configuration, operation, and maintenance (O&M) of IMS Core network nodes to ensure continuous service availability.
- Monitor network KPIs and proactively provide performance improvement recommendations across internal and external IMS Core platforms.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams using automation and analytics tools to improve operational efficiency.
- Execute parameter configuration changes on the 5G Standalone Core platform, including cloud-native core environments and subscriber data platforms.
- Manage performance monitoring and alerting for 5G SA Core networks using modern observability tools (metrics, logging, and alert management).
- Conduct service validation, acceptance testing, and end-to-end functional testing for IMS and 5G SA services.
- Audit core network nodes and services to ensure maximum availability, resilience, and compliance with operational standards.
- Lead capacity planning activities for Core network elements, ensuring scalability and alignment with traffic growth and service demand.
- Handle end-to-end KPI and KQI analysis across Core and interdependent network domains.
- Diagnose and resolve complex IMS Core network issues related to configuration, software, hardware, products, and services.
- Support the integration, commissioning, and acceptance of new Core network nodes and services, including project and vendor coordination.
- Provide L2/L3 operational support and escalation handling for Core network incidents, including roaming-related issues.
- Perform pre- and post-implementation analysis of IMS Core KPIs following network changes and optimisation activities.
- Manage product and software lifecycle activities across all Core network nodes, including upgrades, patches, and decommissioning.
Key Skills & Experience
- Strong hands-on experience with IMS Core and 5G Core network environments.
- Proven expertise in Core network operations, performance management, and troubleshooting.
- Experience working with cloud-native Core architectures and automation-driven operations.
- Solid understanding of KPIs, KQIs, and end-to-end service assurance.
- Ability to manage complex incidents and collaborate across engineering, operations, and vendor teams.
- Experience supporting live production networks in a high-availability environment.
Core Network Engineer in Portsmouth employer: First Point Group
Contact Detail:
First Point Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Core Network Engineer in Portsmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network with industry professionals! Join forums, LinkedIn groups, or local meetups related to Core Network Engineering. Engaging with others in the field can lead to job opportunities that aren't advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your skills through projects! If you’ve worked on any relevant projects, create a portfolio or a GitHub repository. This gives potential employers a tangible way to see what you can do.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common technical questions and scenarios specific to IMS and 5G networks. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or using online platforms to get comfortable.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply directly through our website! It’s often the quickest way to get noticed. Tailor your application to highlight your experience with Virgin Media/VMO2 or BT/EE networks, as this will make you stand out.
We think you need these skills to ace Core Network Engineer in Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience with IMS and 5G Core networks, especially if you've worked with Virgin Media or BT/EE. We want to see how your skills match the job description, so don’t be shy about showcasing relevant projects!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the Core Network Engineer role. Share specific examples of your operational support and performance management experience to grab our attention.
Show Off Your Technical Skills: We’re looking for someone with strong hands-on experience in Core network operations. Make sure to mention any tools or technologies you’ve used, like cloud-native architectures or observability tools, to demonstrate your expertise.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of all the amazing candidates. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at First Point Group
✨Know Your Core Network Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of IMS and 5G core networks, especially if you've worked with Ericsson or Nokia systems. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've been involved in, particularly those related to Virgin Media or BT/EE networks.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of complex network issues you've diagnosed and resolved. Highlight your experience with performance management and how you've used KPIs and KQIs to improve network operations. This will demonstrate your hands-on expertise.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Automation Tools
Since the role involves using automation and analytics tools, be prepared to talk about any relevant tools you've used in the past. Discuss how you've leveraged these tools to enhance operational efficiency and manage cloud-native core environments.
✨Collaboration is Key
This position requires working with cross-functional teams, so be ready to share experiences where you've successfully collaborated with engineering, operations, and vendor teams. Emphasise your communication skills and how they’ve helped in managing incidents and projects.
