Job Information
Actalent Software Engineer in Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland
Job Title: 5G Communications Architect
Job Description
We are seeking a skilled 5G Communications Architect with expertise in 5G RAN and radio development. This position involves developing a militarized derivative of the 5G waveform, focusing on adapting the 5G OpenAirInterface (OAI) stack to support military objectives by employing advanced techniques on top of the 5G architecture.
Responsibilities
Architect an end-to-end 5G communications system based on the OpenAirInterface (OAI) open-source software stack.
Act as a 5G subject matter expert on a SBIR project, delivering requirements documents, and integration and test plans.
Adapt and extend the 5G OpenAirInterface stack to optimize military LPI/LPD requirements through the implementation of DSSS and FHSS.
Develop and validate system-level approaches for enhancing 5G for tactical communications.
Support integration and testing of communication systems in lab and field settings.
Interface with hardware and software teams to drive system-level performance.
Author technical documentation, system specifications, and SBIR deliverables.
Essential Skills
Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Computer Engineering, or related field.
10+ years of development and integration experience in 5G RAN/Radio with deep knowledge of 5G and/or ORAN systems.
Understanding of 3GPP specifications (Rel-15 to Rel-18).
Experience in writing systems requirement specifications.
Experience with Terrestrial and Non-Terrestrial (NTN) communications systems.
Proficiency in C/C++ and telecommunications systems.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Master’s degree in Communications, Computer Science/Engineering, or Wireless Systems.
Experience with 5G core deployment using containerized or virtualized environments (Docker, Kubernetes).
Practical knowledge of DSSS and FHSS for secure, resilient wireless communications.
Hands-on experience with the 5G OpenAirInterface stack.
Experience in MATLAB or similar simulation tools.
Experience supporting DoD SBIR projects or similar government-funded R&D efforts.
U.S. Citizenship and eligibility for DoD security clearance.
Work Environment
This role offers flexibility to work fully remote or hybrid, depending on the candidate's location. The position supports a Military 5G Waveform program for Space Force, as part of a 24-month funded SBIR award. Work alongside a team of DSP Engineers who are also fully remote, with a supportive environment offering full benefits, including 2-4+ weeks of vacation and 11 paid holidays.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $80.00 - $96.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully remote position.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Mar 9, 2026.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com (%20actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com) for other accommodation options.