via Lensa
$150K - 200K a year
Designing, developing, and deploying enterprise-grade software applications and cloud-native solutions.
10+ years software engineering experience with expertise in .NET, cloud platforms, and front-end frameworks, but no 5G or radio systems experience.
Sr. Systems Architect - 5G RAN Location: Aberdeen Proving Ground (APG), MD Type: Hybrid (In-office as needed) Salary Range: $150,000 - $200,000 annually Target Recruiting Area: Mid-Atlantic Region About Fairwinds Technologies Fairwinds Technologies is a U.S.-based engineering firm specializing in Satellite Communications (SATCOM), RF Transmission Systems, Network Design, Systems Integration, and Digital Signal Processing (DSP). We support Command, Control, Communications, and Computer (C4) systems in austere military environments, delivering advanced communications, networking, and IT solutions to defense and civilian agencies worldwide. Position Overview We are seeking a 5G Communications Architect with hands on 5G RAN and/or radio development experience. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in ORAN gNB and Radio systems. This role will develop a militarized derivative of the 5G waveform with focus on adapting the 5G OpenAirInterface (OAI) stack to support military Low Probability of Intercept (LPI) and Low Probability of Detection (LPD) objectives by employing Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) and Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS) techniques on top of 5G architecture. This position reports to the Chief Technology & Strategy Office and involves close collaboration with customers and engineering teams to deliver innovative solutions for RF Tactical & Naval Military Solutions, as well as strategic border protection applications. Key Responsibilities • Architect an end-to-end 5G communications system based on OpenAirInterface (OAI) open-source SW stack. • Act as a 5G subject matter expert on a SBIR project. Deliver requirements documents, and integration and test plans. • Adapt and extend the 5G OpenAirInterface stack to optimize military LPI/LPD requirements, specifically 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. Required Qualifications • 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 and 5G waveforms. • Understand the ramifications of modifications in 5G L1 and L2 stacks, and how it affects system performance and functionality. • Experience in writing systems requirement specifications. • Experience with Terrestrial and Non-Terrestrial (NTN) communications systems. • Understanding of 3GPP specifications (Rel-15 to Rel-18). • U.S. Citizenship and eligible for DoD security clearance. Additional Preferred 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 as applied to secure, resilient wireless communications. • Hands-on experience with the 5G OpenAirInterface stack, including gNB, and UE integration. • Experience in L1 and L2 integration of 5G RAN or SATCOM communications systems. • Experience in MATLAB or similar simulation tools. • Experience supporting DoD SBIR projects or similar government-funded R&D efforts. Supervisory Responsibility None. Work Environment This position is primarily performed in a traditional office environment. Some remote/hybrid work is also possible. Physical Demands While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools or controls; use fingers and hands to type or write; reach with hands and arms; talk or hear. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Position Type/Expected Hours of Work This is a full-time, exempt position, working Monday through Friday; 40 hours per work week; occasional evening and weekend work may be required as job duties demand. Some flexibility in actual work hours may be offered. Travel Must be willing to travel 25-30% when required. Work Authorization/Security Clearance Must be eligible to work in the US and possess or obtain a Secret level clearance. Other Duties Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. AAP/EEO Statement Fairwinds Technologies, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer - M/F/Veteran/Disability/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity Why Join Us Opportunity to work on cutting-edge technologies and innovative projects, including DoD SBIR initiatives. Collaborative and inclusive work environment.
This job posting was last updated on 3/3/2026