Qualcomm

5G/6G Modem Software Engineer

Qualcomm$114K — $171K *
Telecommunications & Hardware
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
  • 1-2 years of academic or industry experience in C/C++ programming.
  • Foundational understanding of embedded systems and real-time operating systems.
  • Basic knowledge of wireless communication concepts.
  • Experience with debugging and performance profiling in embedded environments.

Responsibilities

  • Design and develop modem firmware/software for LTE, 5G-Advanced, and 6G prototyping.
  • Develop and maintain real-time software on proprietary RTOS with strict constraints.
  • Collaborate with systems and architecture teams for modem integration and optimization.
  • Analyze complex field issues and resolve interoperability problems using debugging tools.
  • Write and maintain tests and automation scripts to ensure software quality.
  • Participate in code reviews and technical documentation efforts.

Benefits

  • Competitive annual discretionary bonus program.
  • Opportunity for annual RSU grants.
  • Extensive benefits package designed to support work-life balance.
Full Job Description
Company:
Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.

Job Area:
Engineering Group, Engineering Group > Modem Technologies Software

General Summary:

As a member of the Modem SW team, you will design and develop modem software that powers 5G/6G NR connectivity across Qualcomm's Snapdragon chipset portfolio. You will work across protocol stack layers (L1/L2/L3) to implement 3GPP-compliant features, develop real-time scheduling and resource management algorithms, and use custom scripting languages to dynamically reconfigure the modem in response to real-time network conditions, device states, and AI-driven optimization signals. You will also architect next-generation frameworks that enable our OEM and operator partners to deliver differentiated 5G experiences. Your work will directly influence how billions of devices connect, communicate, and leverage on-device intelligence.

We are looking for engineers with a strong foundation in C/C++ software design and real-time embedded systems, deep understanding of wireless communication principles, a sharp problem-solving mindset, and a passion for shaping the future of wireless connectivity and AI-powered communications.

Minimum Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field.

Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, debug, and optimize modem firmware/software for LTE, 5G-Advanced protocol stack layers and early 6G research prototyping
  • Develop and maintain real-time embedded software on proprietary RTOS (QuRT) with strict latency and throughput constraints
  • Collaborate with systems, architecture, and hardware teams on modem bring-up, integration, and performance optimization
  • Analyze and resolve complex field issues, interoperability problems, and network-specific behaviors using protocol logs, trace tools, and debuggers
  • Write and maintain unit tests, integration tests, and automation scripts to ensure software quality
  • Participate in code reviews, design discussions and technical documentation


Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Electronics/Communication Engineering, or a related field
  • 1-2 years of academic or industry experience in C/C++ programming
  • Foundational understanding of embedded systems, real-time operating systems, and data structures & algorithms
  • Basic knowledge of wireless communication concepts (OFDM, MIMO, channel coding) or digital signal processing fundamentals


Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Electronics/Communication, or Wireless Communications
  • 2+ years of industry experience in embedded software development for wireless/telecom systems
  • Experience with Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) such as QuRT, FreeRTOS, ThreadX, or Zephyr
  • Strong software design and object-oriented design/implementation skills (design patterns, SOLID principles)
  • Working knowledge of 3GPP 5G NR / LTE specifications (TS 38.xxx / TS 36.xxx series)
  • Experience with modem protocol stack development, state machines, or wireless protocol implementation
  • Familiarity with AI/ML fundamentals and interest in applying machine learning to modem optimization (e.g., adaptive scheduling, predictive resource management, beam prediction, link adaptation)
  • Understanding of scripting or domain-specific languages for system configuration and modem parametrization
  • Experience with debugging and performance profiling in embedded environments (JTAG, Trace32/Lauterbach, QXDM, log analysis tools)
  • Familiarity with version control systems (Git/Perforce), CI/CD pipelines, and Agile development practices
  • Knowledge of multi-threading, concurrency, inter-process communication, and memory management in resource-constrained environments
  • Experience with simulation/emulation environments or lab equipment


Pay range and Other Compensation & Benefits:
$114,500.00 - $171,700.00

The above pay scale reflects the broad, minimum to maximum, pay scale for this job code for the location for which it has been posted. Even more importantly, please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Qualcomm. We also offer a competitive annual discretionary bonus program and opportunity for annual RSU grants (employees on sales-incentive plans are not eligible for our annual bonus). In addition, our highly competitive benefits package is designed to support your success at work, at home, and at play. Your recruiter will be happy to discuss all that Qualcomm has to offer - and you can review more details about our US benefits at this link.

If you would like more information about this role, please contact Qualcomm Careers.

About Qualcomm

Qualcomm Ventures is the investment arm of Qualcomm Incorporated. Founded in 2000, Qualcomm Ventures is a corporate venture capital fund with over 150 active portfolio companies and more than 20 exits over a billion dollars, including 99 Taxis, Cruise Automation, Fitbit, Invensense, NQ Mobile, Waze, and more. As a global investor, Qualcomm Ventures helps connect entrepreneurs to the resources, relationships, and deep industry expertise they need to succeed in the mobile technology ecosystem.

Qualcomm Careers

Joining Qualcomm offers more than just a job opportunity; it's a gateway to a career infused with innovation, leadership, and growth. As a pivotal leader in the world of wireless technology, Qualcomm stands at the forefront of digital communication advancements. Our team of professionals is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what's possible, making this an ideal time to become part of our global community.

Work You’ll Do

At Qualcomm, you will collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the industry, engaging in work that transforms the way the world connects, computes, and communicates. Our diverse team is driven by a shared passion for creating path-breaking wireless technologies that empower mobile ecosystems worldwide.

Innovate and Grow

Embrace the opportunity to innovate alongside leaders in the field and contribute to projects that have a global impact. Qualcomm is committed to fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement, ensuring that every team member has the opportunity to make a significant impact.

Professional Growth and Development

Qualcomm is dedicated to the professional growth of its employees, offering unparalleled benefits, diverse career paths, and extensive training programs that encourage professional and personal development. Whether you're looking for leadership roles or specialized technical positions, Qualcomm provides the resources and support to help you drive your career forward.

Diversity and Inclusion

We believe that a diverse workforce fuels our innovation and reflects our commitment to making a positive impact. Qualcomm’s inclusive culture and diversity training programs are designed to promote an environment where all employees can thrive.

Internship Programs

Start your career with Qualcomm through our dynamic internship programs. These opportunities allow you to apply your skills in real-world scenarios, providing a robust foundation for future employment. Internships at Qualcomm are characterized by meaningful projects and the chance to network with industry leaders.

Join Our Team

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Prepare for Your Interview

Ready to join our team? Prepare your resume to highlight your relevant experience and skills. Our interview process is designed to understand your capabilities and how they align with our goals at Qualcomm. We look for passionate, curious, and innovative team players who are ready to take the next step in their careers.

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Career Opportunities Await

At Qualcomm, your career is what you make of it. With support for your ambitions and a network of global professionals, the opportunities to advance and excel are nearly limitless. Join us and be part of a team that’s leading the world in next-generation technology.

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Learn more about Qualcomm
Size
45,000 employees
Market Cap
$122.5 billion
Industry
Net Income
$6.7 billion
Founded
1985
5 Year Trend
+14.7%
Revenue
$26.6 billion
NASDAQ

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