5G Networking 2025: Remote Network Engineer Salary & Career Growth Guide

#5g #kubernetes #networkingcareer

Originally published on Life Around Tech Blog | This is a cross-post

I used to think 5G was just faster internet. But after 6 months working on a telecom infrastructure project, I realized 5G is completely reshaping remote network engineering and salaries. Companies are building cloud-native networks with service-based architecture, network slicing, and edge computing. They desperately need remote engineers who understand this—we're talking $100K-$150K+ salaries.

Why This Matters for Remote Network Engineers

5G isn't the future anymore. It's here. There's a massive skills gap right now. Companies are desperate for engineers who understand both traditional networking AND cloud-native architecture. If you're remote and willing to learn these skills, you're looking at $100K+ salary within 12-18 months.

Real Salary Data: Entry to Senior Level

Entry-Level (0-2 years): $75K-$110K US | $50K-$80K remote from India
Mid-Level (2-5 years): $110K-$150K US | $75K-$120K remote from India

Senior (5+ years): $150K-$200K+ US | $120K-$180K remote from India

Why the range? Cloud-native skills are the salary multiplier. Basic Linux + Python = $85K-$110K. Add Kubernetes = +$20K-$30K. Add O-RAN expertise = +$20K-$40K more.

Companies Actively Hiring Remote 5G Engineers

Top Tier: Nokia, Ericsson, Cisco, AWS, Microsoft Azure ($120K-$180K+)
Strong Opportunities: Orange, Deutsche Telekom, T-Mobile, DISH Wireless ($100K-$150K)

Growth Stage: Telecom startups, cloud-native companies ($85K-$120K)

Your 6-12 Month Roadmap

Months 1-2: Learn Linux kernel networking, Docker, and Kubernetes
Months 2-3: Get CKA and AWS Solutions Architect certifications
Months 3-4: Build a 5G core network simulation project on Kubernetes

Months 4-6: Apply to roles at Nokia, Ericsson, DISH