Modem Systems Engineer - 5G - Job Opportunity at Apple

Sunnyvale, United States
Full-time
Senior
Posted: March 14, 2025
On-site
USD 143,100-264,200 per year

Benefits

Comprehensive Medical Coverage with Industry-Leading Health Insurance
Premium Dental Insurance
Employee Stock Purchase Plan with Company Stock Discount
RSU Awards Program for Long-term Equity Participation
Competitive Retirement Benefits Package
Education Reimbursement for Career Development
Discretionary Performance Bonuses
Relocation Assistance Available

Key Responsibilities

Lead development of state-of-the-art MIMO algorithms for 5G physical layer communications
Drive cross-functional collaboration with hardware, firmware, and RF teams for algorithm implementation
Architect and optimize next-generation wireless communication systems
Manage performance analysis and optimization for modem platforms
Direct system modeling and RTL development validation

Requirements

Education

BS required, MSc or Ph.D. in Electrical/Computer Engineering or Computer Science preferred

Experience

3+ years required, 5+ years preferred with advanced degree

Required Skills

In-depth knowledge of wireless communication systems MIMO technology expertise (5G LTE) Algorithm development and optimization C/C++/MATLAB programming Physical layer wireless communications Baseband algorithm design Performance analysis and optimization Cross-functional collaboration
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Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Industry Trends

The 5G modem development space is experiencing unprecedented growth as companies race to develop proprietary solutions, particularly following Apple's acquisition of Intel's modem business and strategic move away from Qualcomm dependencies. Advanced MIMO systems are becoming critical differentiators in 5G performance, with increasing focus on power efficiency and integration capabilities. The convergence of AI/ML with traditional signal processing is creating new opportunities for innovative modem architectures.

Salary Evaluation

The offered salary range is competitive for Silicon Valley, reflecting the specialized nature of 5G modem expertise. Top performers with advanced degrees can expect upper quartile compensation above $220,000 plus equity.

Role Significance

Typical modem development teams at this level consist of 15-20 engineers, with cross-functional collaboration across hardware, firmware, and software teams of 50+ personnel.
This is a senior technical position with significant influence on Apple's wireless technology roadmap and strategic independence in modem development.

Key Projects

Development of Apple's proprietary 5G modem solution Next-generation MIMO algorithm optimization Power efficiency improvements for mobile devices Integration of modem systems with Apple Silicon

Success Factors

Deep technical expertise in wireless communications combined with practical implementation experience Ability to balance theoretical optimization with real-world constraints Strong cross-functional collaboration skills and system-level thinking Experience with power and area optimization for mobile devices

Market Demand

Extremely high demand with limited talent pool. The combination of RF expertise and system-level architecture skills makes this role particularly challenging to fill.

Important Skills

Critical Skills

MIMO systems expertise is fundamental for next-generation wireless performance Algorithm optimization skills directly impact device battery life and performance Cross-functional collaboration abilities are essential for successful implementation

Beneficial Skills

Machine learning knowledge for advanced signal processing System-on-chip integration experience Power optimization expertise Protocol stack knowledge

Unique Aspects

Opportunity to work on Apple's first in-house 5G modem development
Direct impact on future iPhone and iPad wireless capabilities
Access to cutting-edge research and development resources
Involvement in reshaping the mobile industry's approach to modem technology

Career Growth

2-3 years in role before advancement, with opportunities for technical or management track progression

Potential Next Roles

Principal Modem Architect Technical Lead for Wireless Systems System Architecture Manager Director of Wireless Technology

Company Overview

Apple

Apple's vertical integration strategy in modem development represents a major shift in the mobile industry, with billions invested in creating proprietary wireless solutions.

Industry leader in consumer electronics with strong financial resources and technical capabilities to revolutionize modem technology.
Silicon Valley location provides access to top talent and proximity to key technology partners.
Fast-paced, innovation-driven environment with high emphasis on product excellence and security.
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