Wireless Specialist

Heres perhaps a bit more description of what Im looking for that can help you focus your search.

1. Experience & Technical Expertise

• 5G and Cellular (4G/5G NR): At least 6 years of relevant experience in 4G/5G RAN (Radio Access Network), including design and deployment of 5G gNB. Expertise in Open RAN (O-RAN), virtualized RAN (vRAN), and 3GPP standards is now standard for senior roles.
• Advanced Wi-Fi & Emerging Tech: In-depth knowledge of Wi-Fi 6E/7 and IEEE 802.11ax/be standards. Experience with sub-GHz IoT technologies like Wi-Fi HaLoW (802.11ah) for long-range, low-power applications is becoming highly sought after.
• RF Design and Surveying: Proven capability in advanced RF design, site surveys, and spectrum analysis for large-scale, high-density environments using tools like Ekahau, iBwave, or AirMagnet.
• Networking Protocols & Security: Strong understanding of Layer 2/3 protocols (BGP, OSPF, VLANs, QoS, IPv6) and wireless security frameworks (WPA3, 802.1X, RADIUS/AAA).
• Radio Technologies: Experience with DAS (Distributed Antenna Systems), Small Cells, and microwave links.
• Cloud and Automation: Experience with cloud-managed wireless platforms (Cisco Meraki, Juniper Mist) and network automation tools (Python, Ansible).

2. Required Qualifications

• Education: A Bachelors or Master's degree in Telecommunications, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Certifications:
• CWNP (Certified Wireless Network Professional): CWNE (Expert) is the gold standard, followed by CWNA/CWSP.
• Vendor-Specific Expert Levels: CCIE Wireless (Cisco), Cisco Certified Specialist - Enterprise Wireless Design, or Aruba Certified Edge Expert.
• 5G/IoT: Certified Wi-Fi HaLoW Administrator (CWHA) or specific training in private 5G solutions.

3. Key Competencies and Soft Skills

• Strategic Planning: Ability to create high-level and detailed network architectures (HLD/LLD) that align with business goals.
• Analytical Problem Solving: Strong skills in troubleshooting complex RF interference and network-level issues.
• Stakeholder Management: Ability to communicate technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders, vendors, and clients.
• Project Leadership: Experience leading technical teams and driving end-to-end delivery of wireless projects.

4. Responsibilities

A Wireless Architect will be expected to:

• Define and own the wireless technology roadmap, including 5G Standalone (SA) and Wi-Fi 7 upgrades.
• Ensure interoperability between cellular (4G/5G/DAS) and enterprise WLAN (Wi-Fi) systems.
• Conduct RF analysis for challenging environments (e.g., warehouses, large campuses).
• Implement secure connectivity for IoT devices and traditional user devices.

The role often requires a mix of hands-on technical work and strategic design, occasionally visiting customer sites to ensure proper deployment and validating the design via site surveys.