Apple

Embedded 5G/4G Cellular Physical Layer Data Path Signal Processing Firmware Engineer

Apple$130K — $180K *
Telecommunications & Hardware
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • B.S. in Engineering or Computer Science with 10+ years of relevant experience.
  • Proven experience implementing digital signal processing algorithms on specialized hardware.
  • Deep understanding of software engineering principles and computer science fundamentals.
  • Proficient in C and C++, along with tools for build and source code control.
  • Experience with silicon prototyping and emulation systems, particularly in mobile communications.
  • Strong grasp of 3GPP cellular standards and memory constrained Real-Time Operating Systems.
  • Familiar with scripting languages like Python for automation tasks.

Responsibilities

  • Implement cellular physical layer algorithms on digital/vector signal processors.
  • Interface firmware with specialized cellular ASIC hardware under constraints.
  • Work alongside systems engineers to enhance signal processing algorithms.
  • Design and structure firmware architecture for optimal power and performance.
  • Analyze, refine, and validate fixed-point firmware against algorithmic references.
  • Contribute to the development and verification of pre-silicon emulation systems.
  • Evaluate innovative tools for firmware testing and verification processes.

Benefits

  • Opportunity to work at the forefront of 4G/5G/6G technology developments.
  • Collaborative environment that encourages open discussion and idea sharing.
  • Engagement in projects with a significant impact on cellular technology.
  • Access to cutting-edge tools and technology in firmware development.
  • Potential to work with advanced machine learning concepts and generative AI.
Full Job Description
As a Wireless Embedded Physical Layer Data Path Signal Processing Firmware Engineer on this team, you will be at the center of the embedded 4G/5G/6G multimode cellular firmware effort within a silicon design group responsible for crafting and productizing powerful cellular SoCs. This position requires someone comfortable with all aspects of embedded software development, has experience writing firmware, which is tightly coupled to hardware, is not afraid to debate ideas openly, and is flexible enough to shift on constantly evolving requirements.

Implement cellular physical layer algorithms on digital/vector signal processors with tight time, latency, memory and energy budgets by interfacing to specialized cellular ASIC hardware. If you have strong hardware programming understanding, you will implement firmware which implements 3GPP channels and procedures such as: PDCCH, PDSCH, PBCH PUCCH, PUSCH, PRACH UL/DL HARQ. If you have linear algebra and signal processing understanding, you may implement some of the following: • Channel Estimation • Channel State Feedback • Interference Cancellation • Cell Search and Measurement • Beam Measurement Work with systems engineers to refine signal processing algorithms for efficient firmware/hardware execution • Specify, design, and implement the firmware architecture for superior power, performance, and cost. • Analyze, refine and implement fixed-point firmware and validate bit-exactness to the algorithmic reference • Assist in the development on pre-silicon emulation systems/virtual platforms and use them for verification. • Evaluate and implement groundbreaking tools for build, formal verification and test. • Define methodologies and standard processes

BS and a minimum of 10 years relevant industry experience. Experience either with implementing digital signal processing algorithms using special purpose digital/vector signal processing HW -OR- wireless physical layer channels by interfacing to special purpose hardware. Deep understanding of software engineering principles, and core computer science fundamentals. Fundamental facility with C and C++, compilers, build and source code control tools. Experience with silicon prototyping, emulation systems, and virtual platforms. Solid understanding of computer architecture with particular emphasis on the HW/SW interfaces of high-speed communication subsystems. Some scripting experience (Python) for developing automation tooling.

Understanding of 3GPP cellular standards (4G/5G physical layer aspects). Familiarity with digital/wireless communications. Significant experience with memory constrained Real Time Operating Systems (RTOS) and concurrent programming. Familiarity with machine learning (ML) concepts and generative AI.

About Apple

Apple is a corporation that designs, manufactures, and markets mobile communication and media devices, personal computers, portable digital music players, and sells a variety of related software, services, peripherals, networking solutions, and third-party digital content and applications. Apple provides many products and services, including iPhone; iPad; iPod; Mac; Apple TV; a portfolio of consumer and professional software applications; the iOS and OS X operating systems; iCloud; and accessories, service, and support offerings. It sells its products worldwide through its retail stores, online stores, direct sales force and third-party cellular network carriers, wholesalers, retailers, and value-added resellers to the consumer and also sells third-party iPhone, iPad, Mac and iPod compatible products, including application software and accessories through its online and retail stores. Introduced in 1984, the Macintosh was the first widely sold personal computer with a graphical user interface (GUI). That feature and others such as an improved floppy drive design and a low-cost hard drive that made data retrieval faster helped Apple cultivate a reputation for innovation. Apple was named as the most admired company in the United States in 2008 and in the world from 2008 to 2012 by the Fortune magazine. The company was founded by Steven Paul Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Gerald Wayne on April 1, 1976, and is headquartered in Cupertino, California.

Apple Careers

Join Apple, a place where extraordinary people gather to do their best work. Our ever-expanding global team is at the forefront of innovation and leadership in the tech industry. At Apple, we're not just building products—we're crafting the kind of wonder that revolutionizes entire industries. It's the diversity of our people and their ideas that inspires the innovation that runs through everything we do, from amazing technology to industry-leading environmental efforts. Work You’ll Do Embark on a journey with Apple’s market-leading team to help some of the world’s most influential companies navigate their path to digital mastery with cutting-edge technology and services. Transform industries and touch lives with your unique ideas at Apple. Here, you’ll lead through a unique position at the intersection of technology, creativity, and robust industry expertise. Collaborate with a global team of professionals who are at the top of their game in technology and design. Apple isn’t just a company, it’s a community of innovators and passionate thinkers. Introducing the Apple Innovation and Leadership Initiative We are building a market-leading team to drive our efforts in delivering groundbreaking solutions and services. At Apple, job opportunities are abundant, offering you the chance to explore diverse roles from engineering to marketing, all designed to empower your career growth. Do Innovative Work Join the largest group of creative and technical experts in the world—professionals dedicated to redefining what’s possible through technology and innovation. Deliver targeted solutions through a depth and breadth of expertise that’s unmatched, driving forward our commitment to excellence and leadership in every project we undertake. Be Part of a Great Team Engage in a wide range of projects utilizing Apple’s technology and resources. Harness the unparalleled capabilities, global scale, and joint solution development that only Apple can offer. Future-Proof Your Career Advance your career with limitless opportunities at Apple. Go as far as your ambition takes you with unmatched training, development, and certification support. Explore Discover how Apple is leading the way in tech innovation: [With iOS] Businesses can streamline operations and enhance customer interactions... READ MORE Smart home technology integration that sets the standard for convenience and security... READ MORE The Apple Experience Our combined service capabilities, global scale, and joint solution development help clients overcome challenges and lead transformation in their industries. Clients worldwide look to Apple for new strategies and solutions that drive growth and innovation in the digital era. Stay Connected Join Our Team Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We look for passionate, curious, creative, and solution-driven team players. Whether you’re seeking a professional role, an internship, or a leadership position, Apple offers a variety of employment opportunities. SEARCH APPLE JOBS Keep Up to Date Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. READ CAREERS BLOG Job Alert Emails Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. See what exciting and rewarding opportunities await at Apple, a company committed to diversity, innovation, and leadership. Explore job opportunities, employment benefits, and the culture of growth and innovation at Apple. Prepare your resume, hone your interview skills, and ready yourself for a career at one of the most prestigious companies in the world. Join us in pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
Learn more about Apple
Size
154,000 employees
Market Cap
$2,074.3 billion
Industry
Net Income
$63.9 billion
Founded
1976
5 Year Trend
+11.5%
Revenue
$294.1 billion
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