Embedded 5G/4G Cellular RF Software/Firmware Engineer at Apple in San Diego

Job description

• Posted:
• Sep 16, 2026
• 200684137-3543
• Do you have a passion for invention and self-challenge? Do you thrive on pushing the limits of what’s considered feasible. As part of a world class modem team, you’ll craft sophisticated groundbreaking embedded firmware that deliver more performance in our products than ever before. You’ll work across fields to transform improved hardware elements into a single, integrated design. Join us, and you’ll help us innovate new cellular technologies that continually outperform the previous iterations! By collaborating with other product development groups across Apple, you’ll push the industry boundaries of what wireless systems can do and improve the product experience for our customers across the world. Do you want to have an impact on every single Apple product?
• As a Wireless Firmware Engineer on the physical layer development team, you will be at the center of the embedded 5G/4G/multimode cellular firmware effort within a silicon design group responsible for designing and productizing state-of-the-art cellular SoCs.
• This position requires someone comfortable with all aspects of embedded software design and development, that thrives in a dynamic cross-functional organization, is not afraid to debate ideas openly, and is flexible enough to pivot on constantly evolving requirements.

Responsibilities

• Specify, design, and develop the physical layer embedded software architecture of a state-of-the-art mobile wireless communications system.
• Design, develop and optimize the cellular modem processing algorithms pertaining to Baseband and RF components in a cellular system.
• Work with Baseband & RF systems and hardware designers to define hardware architecture and software computing requirements.
• Work with cross functional teams to manage dependencies while driving the key Radio features.

Requirements

• Minimum requirement of a bachelors degree
• Knowledge of mobile communications in 4G/5G 3GPP protocols and physical layer & radio aspects
• Solid understanding of Digital signal processing and RF fundamentals.
• Solid understanding of software engineering principles, and core computer science fundamentals.
• Excellent command of C and C++, and working experience with compilers, build and source code control tools.
• Working knowledge of CPU architecture, HW/SW interfaces and memory management.
• Proficiency with debugging in embedded software systems. Familiarity with JTAG and ETM Trace tools.
• Knowledge of Communication theory, Wireless standards, Radio architecture and Interfaces

Skills

Required

• Not afraid to debate ideas openly
• C
• C++
• Compilers
• Build tools
• Source code control tools
• CPU architecture
• HW/SW interfaces
• Memory management
• Debugging in embedded software systems
• JTAG
• ETM Trace tools

Benefits

• At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $122,700 and $214,300, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.
• Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple’s discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You’ll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses — including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits
• Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.