Senior Technologist - Future Networks

Digital Catapult is seeking a highly skilled and forward-thinking Senior Technologist to join our pioneering Future Networks team. In this key role, you will be responsible the design, development, and deployment of Open RAN Radio Unit (RU) conformance and certification testing capabilities within our Open Network Labs, positioning Digital Catapult at the forefront of Open RAN innovation in the UK. 

In this hands-on technical role, you will be responsible for ensuring that Open RAN RUs meet 3GPP and O-RAN specifications and comply with industry certification programs such as those from the O-RAN Alliance. Your expertise in wireless systems, testing methodologies, and Open RAN architecture will be critical in building robust, standards-compliant testing infrastructure. 

WHAT YOU'LL DO (Duties) 

• Manage and perform conformance and interoperability testing of Open RAN Radio Units (RUs), Distributed Units (DUs) in accordance with O-RAN WG4 specifications, 3GPP standards, and industry certification requirements. 

• Design, develop, and maintain automated test setups and test cases for functional, protocol, and performance validation of RUs. 

• Interface with O-RAN Alliance working groups and certification labs (OTICs) to align on evolving test procedures and participate in plug fests or validation events. 

• Examine test results using RF test equipment (e.g., spectrum analysers, signal generators) and protocol analysis tools. 

• Generate test plans, validation reports, and technical documentation for internal stakeholders and external stakeholders and certification bodies. 

• Keep abreast of latest industry developments and provide strategic input on RU testing roadmap and tooling. 
  
  

• Expertise in validating Open Fronthaul interfaces, including comprehensive testing of Control (C), User (U), Synchronization (S), and Management (M) planes, ensuring compliance with O-RAN interface specifications. 

• Extensive experience in conformance and certification testing of Open RAN Radio Units (O-RUs) in alignment with OTIC lab procedures and standards. 

• Deep understanding of 3GPP 38.141 series, O-RAN specifications (especially WG4 conformance test specifications), and conruformance test procedures. 

• Hands-on experience developing and executing test plans aligned with O-RAN ALLIANCE and OTIC lab processes. 

• Proficient in using RF test and measurement equipment such as: Signal generators, spectrum/network analysers (e.g., Rohde & Schwarz, Keysight, Anritsu). O-RAN RU conformance testing platforms and tools supporting Open Fronthaul interface validation (e.g., Keysight Open RAN Studio, R&S VSE with O-RU analysis options, or equivalent). 

• Experience in test automation and scripting, preferably using: Python, Bash, or other scripting languages. 

Deadline for Applications: Friday 11th July

Commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion 

We recognise and value the advantages and opportunities that come with having people from diverse backgrounds working with us and it is our ambition to build an organisation which is representative and reflective of UK society.  

We welcome applications from neurodivergent candidates, candidates from minority and underrepresented groups and from candidates with more or less experience, provided the requisite skills can be demonstrated. 

As members of the Disability Confident Scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy. Please do speak with us about adjustments that could support you through our interview process. 

Digital Catapult is an equal opportunities employer. 

• We are in the UK's Top 100 Best Workplaces and placed in the UK's Best Workplaces in Tech and Large Organisations.
• 5% performance related bonus
• Digital Catapult is a Disability Confident Committed Level 1 Employer.
• Excellent holiday package: 25 days annual leave, Bank Holidays and 3 days between Christmas and New Year:
• Double-matched pension up to 10% of your salary;
• 4% of your salary to use towards selecting benefits that work for you, including health cash plan, Private Medical Insurance; buying holiday, topping up your pension;
• E-Vehicle Scheme; Cycle2Work; Tech Scheme; Gym Discounts; Give As you Earn; PerkPal;
• Life insurance 4x salary;
• Free to access EAP & Financial Wellbeing advice;
• Enhanced maternity and paternity leave;
• Hybrid working - with great offices to work from 2 days per week with some roles needing to be onsite more regularly to ensure the successful delivery of our work;
• Investment in your ongoing learning and development with us;
• Company social events throughout the year and free office snacks!

We have a vibrant and engaging culture where all voices are heard and a variety of employee led affinity groups who champion initiatives and provide opportunities for feedback to be shared.

We use moments in the year to educate everyone at Digital Catapult on different aspects of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion and to raise awareness.

We also enjoy socialising and having fun together through a variety of company-wide events held throughout the year including our football team, running and climbing groups and volunteering activities.