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5G Modem Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Support Verizon/Sprint/ATT/T-Mobile modem test for Lab/Field/IOT certification. * Participate in new 5G feature validation in the lab environment with equipment such as Network Emulators (KeySight ...

Description - Model, design, and simulate state-of-the-art RF for 4G/5G/6G modem wireless communication systems. - Implement system models and perform detailed performance investigations to allow ...

Description - Model, design, and simulate state-of-the-art RF for 4G/5G/6G modem wireless communication systems. - Implement system models and perform detailed performance investigations to allow ...

Description - Model, design, and simulate state-of-the-art RF for 4G/5G/6G modem wireless communication systems. - Implement system models and perform detailed performance investigations to allow ...

Description - Model, design, and simulate state-of-the-art RF for 4G/5G/6G modem wireless communication systems. - Implement system models and perform detailed performance investigations to allow ...

Description - Model, design, and simulate state-of-the-art RF for 4G/5G/6G modem wireless communication systems. - Implement system models and perform detailed performance investigations to allow ...

Description - Model, design, and simulate state-of-the-art RF for 4G/5G/6G modem wireless communication systems. - Implement system models and perform detailed performance investigations to allow ...

Develop test framework for testing 5G modem with iSIM on secure processors. Lead design and development of multiple features, responsible for planning, scheduling, and assigning tasks to other team ...

Showing results 41-60

5G Modem information

See California salary details

$12

$50

$82

How much do 5g modem jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for 5g modem in California is $50.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.84 and $60.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by engineers working on 5G modem development, and how do teams typically address them?

Engineers working on 5G modem development often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility with rapidly evolving standards, optimizing power consumption, and handling complex signal processing tasks. Teams typically address these issues through close cross-functional collaboration with hardware, firmware, and software specialists, as well as by engaging in regular testing and validation cycles. Agile methodologies and continuous learning are also commonly used to keep up with technological advancements and ensure robust, compliant modem solutions.

What is a 5G modem job?

5G modem jobs involve designing, developing, testing, and optimizing the hardware and software that allow mobile devices to connect to 5G wireless networks. Professionals in this field work on tasks such as improving data transmission speeds, reducing latency, and ensuring compatibility with global standards. These roles often require expertise in wireless communication protocols, embedded systems, and signal processing. 5G modem engineers play a crucial role in enabling the next generation of high-speed mobile connectivity.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 5G modem engineer?

To thrive as a 5G Modem Engineer, you need a strong background in wireless communication principles, digital signal processing, and embedded systems, typically supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with tools like MATLAB, C/C++, FPGA platforms, and knowledge of 3GPP standards are essential, along with relevant certifications such as Certified Wireless Network Professional (CWNP). Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help engineers collaborate on complex projects and troubleshoot issues efficiently. These skills are crucial for developing reliable, high-performance 5G modem solutions that meet industry standards and support next-generation connectivity.

What is the difference between 5G Modem vs Network Engineer?

Aspect5G ModemNetwork Engineer
Required CredentialsTechnical knowledge of networking hardware, certifications like CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNANetworking certifications, such as Cisco CCNP, CCNA, or CompTIA Network+
Work EnvironmentHardware setup, testing, and troubleshooting in labs or field installationsDesigning, implementing, and managing network infrastructure in various organizations
Industry UsageTelecommunications, consumer electronics, IoT devicesIT, telecommunications, enterprise networks

While a 5G Modem focuses on hardware and connectivity for mobile devices, a Network Engineer designs and manages entire network systems. Both roles require networking knowledge and certifications but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to 5G Modem jobs in California? For 5G Modem jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for 5G Modem jobs? Cities in California with the most 5G Modem job openings:
Infographic showing various 5G Modem job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,365 per year, or $50.2 per hour.

Modem Power Software Senior Engineer

Qualcomm

San Diego, CA • On-site

$122K - $183K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Qualcomm rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

51st of 242 rated software companies


Job description

Company:
Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.
Job Area:
Engineering Group, Engineering Group > Modem Software Engineering
General Summary:
We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Engineer to join our Modem Power Software team. In this role, you will design, develop, and optimize advanced power management software for next-generation mobile platforms, including emerging 6th Generation (6G) modem technologies, helping drive industry-leading efficiency and performance.
What You'll Work On
  • Design and enhance embedded software components that manage power and performance in cellular modem systems
  • Improve system efficiency through innovative power optimization techniques and algorithms
  • Analyze and resolve complex system issues using logs, traces, and debugging tools
  • Collaborate closely with hardware, firmware, and system teams to deliver optimized end-to-end solutions

What We're Looking For
We are looking for engineers passionate about low-power design and the evolution of wireless technologies, including the transition from 5G to 6th Generation (6G) modems. If you are excited about pushing the boundaries of modem performance and exploring the use of AI to improve system efficiency, you will thrive in this role.
Minimum Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field and 2+ years of Software Engineering, Embedded Software, or related work experience.
OR
Master's degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field and 1+ year of Software Engineering, Embedded Software, or related work experience.
OR
PhD in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Embedded Software Development: Strong experience in Embedded C/C++ and solid understanding of real-time operating systems
  • AI Tools and Productivity: Familiarity with using AI-assisted tools (e.g., code assistants, scripting, or automation frameworks) to improve development efficiency
  • Debugging & Optimization: Experience with low-level debugging, system analysis, and power/performance optimization
  • RF Domain Knowledge: Exposure to or understanding of radio frequency (RF) systems, wireless communication fundamentals, or modem-RF interactions is a plus
  • 3 years relevant experience after Bachelor's or 2 years of experience after Master's

Qualcomm is an equal opportunity employer. If you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation during the application/hiring process, rest assured that Qualcomm is committed to providing an accessible process. You may e-mail disability-accomodations@qualcomm.com or call Qualcomm's toll-free number found here. Upon request, Qualcomm will provide reasonable accommodations to support individuals with disabilities to be able participate in the hiring process. Qualcomm is also committed to making our workplace accessible for individuals with disabilities. (Keep in mind that this email address is used to provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. We will not respond here to requests for updates on applications or resume inquiries).
To all Staffing and Recruiting Agencies: Our Careers Site is only for individuals seeking a job at Qualcomm. Staffing and recruiting agencies and individuals being represented by an agency are not authorized to use this site or to submit profiles, applications or resumes, and any such submissions will be considered unsolicited. Qualcomm does not accept unsolicited resumes or applications from agencies. Please do not forward resumes to our jobs alias, Qualcomm employees or any other company location. Qualcomm is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes/applications.
EEO Employer: Qualcomm is an equal opportunity employer; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or any other protected classification.
Qualcomm expects its employees to abide by all applicable policies and procedures, including but not limited to security and other requirements regarding protection of Company confidential information and other confidential and/or proprietary information, to the extent those requirements are permissible under applicable law.
Pay range and Other Compensation & Benefits:
$122,500.00 - $183,700.00
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.

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About Qualcomm

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Qualcomm is enabling a world where everyone and everything can be intelligently connected. You interact with products and technologies made possible by Qualcomm every day, including 5G-enabled smartphones that double as pro-level cameras and gaming devices, smarter vehicles and cities, and the technology behind the smart, connected factories that manufactured your latest purchase. Our powerful connectivity solutions keep you connected—even in remote areas. Qualcomm 5G and AI innovations are the power behind the connected intelligent edge. You’ll find our technologies behind and inside the innovations that deliver significant value across multiple industries and to billions of people every day.

Industry

Technology, communication and media

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1985