RF​/Optimization Engineer; LTE​/5G | NextGen | Rolling Meadows, IL; Hybrid

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Job Title:

RF Performance / Optimization Engineer (LTE / 5G) | Next Gen | Rolling Meadows, IL (Hybrid)
🏢 Recruiting Company:
Next Gen
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Job Location:

Rolling Meadows, Illinois (Hybrid)
💼 Job Type: Contract
📧 Application Method:

The RF Performance / Optimization Engineer will play a pivotal role in enhancing LTE and 5G network performance across a major U.S. operator environment. This role is crucial for identifying performance bottlenecks, tuning RAN parameters, driving feature rollouts, and improving end‑to‑end network quality through data-driven analysis.

In this role, you will be responsible for monitoring hourly/daily KPIs, optimizing LTE and 5G e, conducting drive test evaluations, and troubleshooting hardware and RAN‑related issues. You will collaborate with engineering teams to integrate new nodes, deploy features, and support customer‑impact events. The role requires strong analytical capabilities with hands‑on experience using vendor tools from Ericsson, Nokia, or Samsung, supported by post‑processing expertise and advanced data analysis using SQL/Python/R.

• ✓ Monitor and optimize LTE and 5G  using hourly and daily KPIs.
• ✓ Perform end‑to‑end RAN troubleshooting including hardware, alarms, and parameter issues.
• ✓ Conduct drive test analysis, geo‑based performance analytics, and coverage optimization.
• ✓ Lead new feature rollouts, integrations, and RAN performance improvement initiatives.
• ✓ Support customer‑affecting incidents, degradations, and performance evaluations.
• ✓ Collaborate with cross‑functional engineering teams for capacity and KPI enhancements.
• ✓ Prepare technical reports, dashboards, and documentation for leadership and project teams.

• ✓ Minimum 5+ years of LTE / 5G RAN performance engineering experience.
• ✓ Strong understanding of 3
  
  GPP standards for LTE, 5G NSA, and 5G SA.
• ✓ Deep knowledge of RAN architecture and signaling protocols: RRC, S1AP, X2AP, NGAP.
• ✓ Hands‑on experience with Ericsson / Nokia / Samsung tools and optimization platforms.
• ✓ Strong drive test, post‑processing, and KPI analysis background.
• ✓ Ability to work with SQL / Python / R for advanced data analytics.
• ✓ Excellent verbal communication, reporting, and documentation skills.

• ✓ Master’s degree in Telecommunications, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
• ✓ Experience with vRAN / Open RAN performance analysis.
• ✓ Understanding of EPC / 5GC architecture and procedures.
• ✓ Relevant industry certifications (e.g., OEM certifications, RAN optimization certs).

Showcase real examples of KPI improvements, feature rollouts, or complex RAN troubleshooting cases you’ve handled—quantifiable performance gains help your profile stand out immediately for high‑demand RF optimization projects.