At a Glance
- Tasks: Test and validate cutting-edge 5G RAN technologies in a dynamic lab environment.
- Company: Join a leading tech firm at the forefront of 5G innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative team culture with exciting career advancement opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of the 5G revolution and make a real impact on future connectivity.
- Qualifications: Strong knowledge of LTE/5G RAN and hands-on testing experience required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Location: 3 days a week on site, Bristol.
Role Overview
We are seeking a highly experienced Senior RAN Test Engineer with strong expertise in LTE and 5G Radio Access Networks. This role focuses on RAN integration, system validation, performance testing, and troubleshooting across lab environments. The successful candidate will have strong protocol-level knowledge and practical experience with modern RAN architectures.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, execute, and maintain test cases for RAN integration, system, and regression testing across LTE and 5G (NSA and SA).
- Perform functional, performance, interoperability, and stability testing of RAN components including eNB, gNB, RU, DU, and CU.
- Analyse UE and RAN logs across Layer 1, Layer 2, and Layer 3 and perform detailed Root Cause Analysis.
- Validate mobility scenarios including handovers, carrier aggregation, dual connectivity, beam management, and load balancing.
- Support lab testing, including KPI benchmarking and performance optimisation.
- Work closely with RAN engineering teams, vendors, and field teams to troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues.
- Document test results, produce test reports, and track defects using tools such as JIRA or HP ALM.
Essential Technical Skills
- Strong understanding of LTE and 5G RAN architecture, including eNB, gNB, CU/DU/RU split, and Open RAN concepts.
- Essential hands‑on experience with either Small Cell deployments or Satellite Backhaul (LEO, MEO, or GEO).
- In‑depth knowledge of RAN protocols including RRC, RLC, MAC, PHY, SCTP, S1AP, X2, Xn, and F1 interfaces.
- Experience with vRAN, OpenRAN, Massive MIMO, beamforming, and timing synchronisation technologies such as GPS, PTP, and SyncE.
- Hands‑on experience with RAN test and analysis tools such as Wireshark, QXDM, XCAL, Viavi, TEMS, Ixia, or equivalent.
- Strong understanding of 3GPP standards and RAN KPIs including throughput, latency, SINR, BLER, CQI, and RF performance metrics.
Additional Expectations
- Experience defining RAN test strategies, acceptance criteria, and validation plans.
- Exposure to test automation and scripting, preferably using Python, for log analysis or KPI reporting.
- Experience working in multi‑vendor and OpenRAN environments.
RAN Test Engineer (5G RAN) employer: Qualitest
Contact Detail:
Qualitest Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land RAN Test Engineer (5G RAN)
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with folks in the industry! Attend meetups, webinars, or even local tech events. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that RAN Test Engineer gig.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, don’t hold back! Talk about your hands-on experience with LTE and 5G, and share specific examples of how you've tackled challenges in RAN testing. We want to see your expertise shine!
✨Prepare for Technical Interviews
Brush up on your protocol-level knowledge and be ready to discuss RAN architectures in detail. Practice explaining complex concepts like handovers and carrier aggregation clearly. We want to see you confident and knowledgeable!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out our website for the latest job openings! Applying directly through us not only shows your interest but also gives you a better chance to stand out. Let’s get you that Senior RAN Test Engineer role!
We think you need these skills to ace RAN Test Engineer (5G RAN)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the RAN Test Engineer role. Highlight your experience with LTE and 5G, and don’t forget to mention any hands-on work with RAN components. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Projects: Include specific projects or tasks you've worked on that relate to RAN integration and testing. This gives us a clear picture of your practical experience and how you tackle real-world challenges in the field.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use bullet points for key achievements and avoid jargon unless it's relevant. We appreciate straightforward communication that gets to the heart of your experience.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Qualitest
✨Know Your RAN Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of LTE and 5G RAN architectures. Be ready to discuss specific components like eNB, gNB, and the CU/DU/RU split. The more you can demonstrate your understanding of these systems, the better you'll impress the interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Testing Skills
Prepare to talk about your hands-on experience with RAN testing tools like Wireshark or QXDM. Have examples ready where you've developed test cases or performed root cause analysis. This will show that you not only know the theory but can apply it practically.
✨Be Ready for Technical Challenges
Expect some technical questions or scenarios during the interview. They might ask you to troubleshoot a hypothetical issue or analyse logs. Practise explaining your thought process clearly, as this will highlight your problem-solving skills and technical expertise.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Industry Standards
Make sure you're up to speed with 3GPP standards and RAN KPIs. Being able to discuss metrics like throughput, latency, and SINR will show that you’re not just familiar with the technology but also understand how to measure its performance effectively.