5G SA O-RAN Test Bed Co-Op (Engineering Co-Op)

STR•Woburn, MA

6d•Onsite

About The Position

This is a full-time, in-person Engineering Co-Op at STR’s Woburn, Massachusetts office, ideally starting in January 2027. The co-op will work alongside experienced engineers and software developers on technical projects related to national security, gaining practical engineering experience and mentorship in open-source software, Linux-based networking, and wireless communications. As part of the intelligence team, the co-op will help establish and maintain a 5G Standalone (SA) Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN) test bed using open-source software, including the Linux Foundation’s O-CU/DU and complementary components. The role involves configuring network and RAN components, integrating core-network systems, automating test-bed deployments, and troubleshooting interoperability challenges. Work takes place in a collaborative engineering environment focused on emerging 5G technologies and open-source wireless systems. STR specializes in advanced research and development for defense, intelligence, and national security. The company describes its culture as collaborative and learning-oriented, and is an equal opportunity employer. U.S. citizenship is required due to the nature of STR’s work and clearance requirements; positions also require employees to obtain national security clearances and satisfy export-control and other applicable legal requirements.

Requirements

Currently pursuing a degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, telecommunications, or a related technical discipline.
Basic understanding of networking concepts and protocols.
Comfortable working in a Linux-based development environment.
Some experience with Python or shell scripting.
Interest in 5G wireless communications, Open Radio Access Networks (O-RAN), and open-source software.
Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and willingness to learn.
Ability to work collaboratively with software developers and engineering teams.
U.S. citizenship is required due to the nature of STR’s work and clearance requirements.

Responsibilities

Assist the team in establishing and maintaining a 5G Standalone (SA) O-RAN test bed using open-source software.
Install, configure, and maintain Linux-based networking and Radio Access Network (RAN) components.
Collaborate with the software development team to integrate core-network and O-RAN components.
Develop scripts and automation tools to support repeatable test-bed setup and configuration.
Troubleshoot networking, integration, and interoperability issues across system components.
Document system configurations, test procedures, troubleshooting processes, and experimental results.
Participate in hands-on lab experimentation and learn about emerging 5G technologies and open-source wireless systems.