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Mac Layer Wireless System Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Apple

Wireless System Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

... layers through wireless system modeling and simulations. Description Wireless technologies have ... We are looking for an expert wireless systems engineer who has deep understanding of wireless ...

Apple

Bluetooth MAC Systems Engineer

Bodega Bay, CA

$184K - $324K/yr

Our wireless SoC organization is responsible for all aspects of wireless silicon development ... Collaborating with PHY system team and cross-functional teams to integrate MAC layer algorithms ...

Apple

Wireless System Engineer

Cupertino, CA

$175K - $308K/yr

... layers through wireless system modeling and simulations. Description Wireless technologies have ... We are looking for an expert wireless systems engineer who has deep understanding of wireless ...

Apple

Wireless System Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$175K - $308K/yr

... layers through wireless system modeling and simulations. Description Wireless technologies have ... We are looking for an expert wireless systems engineer who has deep understanding of wireless ...

Apple

Wireless System Engineer

Cupertino, CA

$175K - $308K/yr

... layers through wireless system modeling and simulations. Description Wireless technologies have ... We are looking for an expert wireless systems engineer who has deep understanding of wireless ...

Apple Inc.

Wireless System Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$184K - $324K/yr

We are looking for an expert wireless systems engineer who has deep understanding of wireless protocol interactions within the network, interactions across different layers of wireless protocols ...

Apple Inc.

$184K - $324K/yr

We are looking for an expert wireless systems engineer who has deep understanding of wireless protocol interactions within the network, interactions across different layers of wireless protocols ...

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Mac Layer Wireless System Engineer information

See salary details

$73K

$129.5K

$249K

How much do mac layer wireless system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for mac layer wireless system engineer in the United States is $129,511.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $103,000.00 and $134,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Mac Layer Wireless System Engineer do?

A Mac Layer Wireless System Engineer specializes in designing, developing, and optimizing the Medium Access Control (MAC) layer protocols for wireless communication systems. Their role involves ensuring efficient data transmission, managing network access, and enhancing the performance of wireless networks such as Wi-Fi, 5G, or other wireless technologies. They work closely with hardware and software teams to implement features like scheduling, error correction, and resource allocation within the MAC layer. This engineering position requires a deep understanding of wireless protocols, real-time system constraints, and network standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mac Layer Wireless System Engineer?

To thrive as a Mac Layer Wireless System Engineer, you need a solid background in wireless communication principles, MAC layer protocols, and a relevant engineering degree (such as Electrical, Computer, or Telecommunications Engineering). Proficiency with simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB, NS-3), programming languages (like C/C++), and familiarity with wireless standards (such as 3GPP, IEEE 802.11) are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in collaborative and innovative environments. These competencies ensure robust protocol design, optimize wireless system performance, and enable efficient cross-functional development.

What are some common challenges faced by Mac Layer Wireless System Engineers when integrating new wireless protocols?

Mac Layer Wireless System Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring backward compatibility with legacy devices, optimizing protocol efficiency to handle varying network loads, and minimizing latency for real-time applications. Balancing security requirements with performance and managing resource allocation across diverse hardware platforms are also key hurdles. Close collaboration with firmware, hardware, and application teams is essential to address these complexities and deliver robust, scalable solutions.

What is the difference between Mac Layer Wireless System Engineer vs Radio Frequency (RF) Engineer?

AspectMac Layer Wireless System EngineerRadio Frequency (RF) Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Wireless Communications, or related fields; certifications like CWNA or CCNABachelor's in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, or related; similar certifications often required
Work EnvironmentDesigning and optimizing wireless network protocols, working with hardware and software teamsDesigning, testing, and troubleshooting RF components and systems
Industry UsageTelecommunications, mobile networks, wireless device manufacturingTelecommunications, aerospace, defense, wireless device manufacturing

The Mac Layer Wireless System Engineer focuses on the software and protocol aspects of wireless networks, while the RF Engineer specializes in the hardware and signal transmission aspects. Both roles often collaborate but have distinct technical focuses within the wireless industry.

What are popular job titles related to Mac Layer Wireless System Engineer jobs?

For Mac Layer Wireless System Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Mac Layer Wireless System Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,511 per year, or $62.3 per hour.

Wireless Systems Engineer (Starlink Mobile)

Sunnyvale, CA

SpaceX
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about SpaceXexternal

$155K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Design and optimize wireless systems algorithms at the MAC and PHY layer for link adaptation, power control, timing advance, and doppler tracking.

  • Design and simulate complex MAC layer scheduling algorithms that support joint scheduling of users across multiple beams subject to Quality of Service (QoS) and latency constraints.

  • Analyze inter-cell and inter-beam interference on both uplink and downlink, identify issues on-orbit, and propose solutions through beam planning optimizations, MAC layer scheduling improvements, or advanced signal processing techniques.

SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 152 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

WIRELESS SYSTEMS ENGINEER (STARLINK MOBILE) 
 
As a Wireless Systems Engineer for Starlink Mobile you will design and develop wireless communications algorithms that maximize system performance for the Starlink Mobile satellite constellation and future networks. The ideal candidate will have deep technical expertise in wireless communication systems, strong knowledge of 3GPP RAN protocols (4G/5G/6G), and an interest in building production algorithms that get deployed at global scale. 
 
RESPONSIBILITIES: 
  • Design and optimize wireless systems algorithms at the MAC and PHY layer for link adaptation, power control, timing advance, and doppler tracking.
  • Design and simulate complex MAC layer scheduling algorithms that support joint scheduling of users across multiple beams subject to Quality of Service (QoS) and latency constraints.
  • Analyze inter-cell and inter-beam interference on both uplink and downlink, identify issues on-orbit, and propose solutions through beam planning optimizations, MAC layer scheduling improvements, or advanced signal processing techniques.
  • Run link level simulations and system level simulations to compare performance of different algorithms at all layers of the protocol stack.
  • Work directly with software engineers to implement algorithms and deploy to orbit.
  • Qualify algorithm performance in production through aggregate KPI analysis, high rate per TTI telemetry, and UE log analysis.
  • Develop high-fidelity models for wireless systems in non-terrestrial applications that leverage 3GPP defined protocols (4G/5G/6G). 
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: 
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or STEM discipline and 1+ years of engineering experience (internship/project experience is acceptable); OR 5+ years of professional engineering experience, in lieu of a degree.
  • Experience with MAC and PHY layer protocols and algorithms used in cellular base stations.
  • Experience working with 3GPP protocols. 
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: 
  • Master's degree or PhD in wireless communication systems.
  • Experience with system design or implementation of MAC and PHY algorithms for cellular systems.
  • Prior experience debugging issues for a production wireless network deployed at scale.
  • Prior experience with link level simulations that characterize physical layer decode performance under different channel models.
  • Prior experience with system level simulation of a communication network modeling inter-cell and inter-user interference.
  • Fluent in MATLAB and working knowledge of python and/or C/C++.
  • Strong skills in debugging, performance optimization, and data analysis; exceptional analytical skills and engineering fundamentals.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment with changing needs and requirements. 
 ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 
  • Willing to work extended hours and weekends when needed
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:    
Pay range:    
Software Engineer/Level I: $135,000.00 - $155,000.00/per year    
Software Engineer/Level II: $155,000.00 - $185,000.00/per year    
   
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k)-retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.

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About SpaceX

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Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US

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