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Cellular Protocol Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TRISTAR

Cellular Engineer

Crane, IN · On-site

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in cellular protocols, software engineering, and testing methodologies. Key Responsibilities * Support the design, development, integration, testing ...

TRISTAR

Cellular Engineer

Crane, IN · On-site

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in cellular protocols, software engineering, and testing methodologies. Key Responsibilities * Support the design, development, integration, testing ...

TRISTAR INC

Cellular Engineer

Crane, IN · On-site

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in cellular protocols, software engineering, and testing methodologies. Key Responsibilities * Support the design, development, integration, testing ...

SAIC

Cellular Engineer

Crane, IN · On-site

Develop and assess cellular protocol implementations across 3G, LTE, and 5G environments. * Perform software engineering activities including design, coding, integration, debugging, and maintenance ...

Saic

The selected candidate will analyze and develop cellular protocol implementations across 3G, LTE, and 5G environments. Additionally, this role involves performing software engineering using C, C ...

Precise Systems

Cellular Engineer

Crane, IN · On-site

We are seeking a Cellular Engineer, Journeyman to support our customer in Crane, Indiana. In this ... This position is ideal for an engineer who combines strong software and protocol knowledge with ...

Precise Systems

Cellular Engineer

Crane, IN · On-site

We are seeking a Cellular Engineer, Journeyman to support our customer in Crane, Indiana. In this ... This position is ideal for an engineer who combines strong software and protocol knowledge with ...

Socket.dev

Cellular Engineer

Crane, IN · On-site

The selected candidate will analyze and develop cellular protocol implementations across 3G, LTE, and 5G environments. Additionally, this role involves performing software engineering using C, C ...

SAIC

Cellular Engineer

Crane, IN · On-site

Develop and assess cellular protocol implementations across 3G, LTE, and 5G environments. * Perform software engineering activities including design, coding, integration, debugging, and maintenance ...

SAIC

Cellular Engineer

Crane, IN · On-site

Develop and assess cellular protocol implementations across 3G, LTE, and 5G environments. * Perform software engineering activities including design, coding, integration, debugging, and maintenance ...

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Cellular Protocol Software Engineer information

See salary details

$63.5K

$147.5K

$205.5K

How much do cellular protocol software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for cellular protocol software engineer in the United States is $147,524.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,000.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a cellular protocol software engineer do?

A Cellular Protocol Software Engineer designs, develops, and tests software that enables mobile devices and network equipment to communicate using cellular protocols such as 4G LTE, 5G NR, and earlier standards. They work on implementing and optimizing protocol stacks, ensuring compliance with industry standards, and troubleshooting connectivity issues. These engineers often collaborate with hardware teams and network operators to provide seamless and efficient wireless communication.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cellular protocol software engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cellular Protocol Software Engineer, you need a deep understanding of wireless communication protocols (such as LTE, 5G NR), strong software development skills in C/C++, and a degree in computer science, electrical engineering, or a related field. Experience with protocol stack development, debugging tools, and familiarity with standards like 3GPP are typically required, along with tools like Wireshark and protocol analyzers. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial for developing robust, standards-compliant software that ensures reliable mobile connectivity and seamless network interoperability.

What are some common challenges cellular protocol software engineers face when integrating new features into existing wireless communication stacks?

Cellular Protocol Software Engineers often encounter challenges related to ensuring backward compatibility and maintaining system stability when integrating new features into established wireless communication stacks. These stacks are complex and tightly coupled, so even minor changes can introduce unexpected interactions or bugs. Engineers must thoroughly test new features across various network conditions and device configurations while coordinating closely with hardware teams and cross-functional stakeholders to ensure smooth integration. Additionally, adhering to evolving industry standards and certification requirements can add further complexity to the process.

What is the difference between Cellular Protocol Software Engineer vs Wireless Network Software Engineer?

AspectCellular Protocol Software EngineerWireless Network Software Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related; knowledge of cellular standardsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related; expertise in wireless protocols
Work EnvironmentTelecom companies, mobile device manufacturers, R&D labsTelecom firms, network providers, hardware manufacturers
Industry UsagePrimarily in cellular networks (LTE, 5G)In Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and other wireless technologies

The Cellular Protocol Software Engineer focuses on developing and optimizing protocols specific to cellular networks like LTE and 5G, while the Wireless Network Software Engineer works on a broader range of wireless technologies such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Both roles require similar technical backgrounds but differ in their specific standards and applications.

What are popular job titles related to Cellular Protocol Software Engineer jobs?

For Cellular Protocol Software Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Cellular Protocol Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $147,524 per year, or $70.9 per hour.

Cellular Power Optimization Software Engineer, Wireless Technologies & Ecosystems

San Diego, CA • On-site

Apple
Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Appleexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Apple rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 684 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Apple's Cellular Software team is seeking highly motivated and disciplined engineers to collaborate on groundbreaking cellular technologies. The role entails identifying and optimizing cellular power and thermal performance to address everyday challenges faced by iPhone, iPad, Watch, and other wireless product users. Our team is dedicated to ensuring seamless connectivity for our users, regardless of their location. We take pride in not only developing proven software designs but also in disrupting traditional cellular ecosystem models. Our commitment to enhancing user experience is unwavering, and we provide members with the flexibility to work on various aspects of Cellular Protocol software, including SIM, NAS, AS, and iOS interfaces, to devise the most effective solutions for any given problem. If you share our passion for cellular technologies and aspire to work on groundbreaking innovations, we invite you to join our team. As a member, you will have the opportunity to significantly impact iPhone user experience globally.
Description
We are seeking a candidate who will be part of a team that is involved in power and thermal optimization efforts along with debugging and enabling critical power features. As an exceptional team member, you will be entrusted with the pivotal responsibility of achieving the power and thermal objectives for Apple cellular projects. Your ability to thrive in a dynamic and rapidly evolving environment, characterized by shifting priorities, is highly valued.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelors and/or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent field.
0-2 years of experience in software engineering skills including design, programming (using C, C++), scripting (Python preferred, Perl) and debugging.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in troubleshooting SW and HW power management flows.
Strong interest in the area of modem power management system/SW architecture & power flows.

What Apple employees say

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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976

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