Core Network Engineer

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