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Cellular Protocol Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Skydio, Inc

Wireless Software Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$147K - $210K/yr

Strong understanding of WLAN and/or cellular protocols, including OFDMA, mesh networking, and ... Strong software engineering skills, including design, implementation, and performance tuning of ...

SupportFinity™

#Software Engineer

California, MO · On-site

$111K - $166K/yr

Working with other connectivity & wireless technologies (Cellular, Bluetooth, UWB, Thread, etc ... TCP/IP & other Networking Protocols knowledge * Embedded Systems experience/Device drivers ...

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Cellular Protocol Software Engineer information

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$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.

C/C++ Software Engineer 2 - Communication protocols

Cary, NC • On-site

Garmin Ltd.
Electronics and Appliance Stores • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Garmin Ltd.external

Other

Posted 24 days ago

Garmin rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Overview

We are seeking a full-time C/C++ Embedded Software Engineer 2 on our Wireless Protocol software team in our Cary, NC location.

As a member of the Networking Technology team, you will deliver software features for a diverse set of innovative products such as next-gen dashcams, fishfinders, chartplotters, bike computers, handheld 2‑way radios, and other personal navigation devices tailored for off‑roading, racing, trucking, and recreation. We push the limits of wireless connectivity to deliver advanced features such as remote device monitoring, media streaming, automated cloud storage uploads, automatic software and map updates, and many more unique capabilities.

Essential Functions
  • Design and deliver high-quality embedded C and C++ software on embedded Linux and real‑time operating systems (RTOS).
  • Prototype and productize software features in a fast‑paced environment.
  • Analyze, debug, and resolve Wi‑Fi performance and interoperability issues using wireless protocol analyzers as well as tenacity and ingenuity.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders across Garmin to implement innovative connectivity use‑cases and to enhance existing designs to meet new requirements.
  • Integrate, maintain, and contribute to third‑party and open‑source software projects.
  • Utilize software engineering tools such as configuration management systems, build processes, and debuggers in the software development process.
  • May perform as a technical leader or Lead Software Engineer for derivative software project.
  • Collaborate and add value through participation in peer code reviews, providing comments and suggestions.
  • Provide reliable solutions to a variety of problems using sound problem‑solving techniques.
  • Perform technical root cause analysis and outline corrective action for given problems.
  • Contribute to technical research on new technologies.
  • Estimate level of effort, evaluate new options of similar technology, offer suggestions to improve processes, and provide feedback on some electrical design aspects.
  • Serve as a mentor to less experienced software engineers (Software Engineer 1).
Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Math, Physics or related field AND a minimum of 1 year relevant experience (not including internships or co‑ops) OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Excellent academics (cumulative GPA greater than or equal to 3.0 as a general rule).
  • Demonstrated proficiency and experience necessary to develop moderately complex software in embedded C/C++, preferably on Linux.
  • Proficient knowledge, utilization and mastery of relevant software engineering tools (configuration management systems, build processes, debuggers, emulators, simulators and logic analyzers).
  • Collaborative and flexible, eager to learn.
Desired Qualifications
  • Outstanding academics (cumulative GPA greater than or equal to 3.5).
  • Experience with networking or communications across the internet including streaming audio or video.
  • Experience with wireless technologies such as Wi‑Fi.
  • Experience developing multi‑threaded programs in Linux.
  • Knowledge of modern C++ standards.
  • Python scripting experience.

Garmin International is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran’s status, age or disability.

This position is eligible for Garmin's benefit program. Details can be found here: Garmin Benefits.

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