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Physical Layer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Marvell

Link Layer architect

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

Define interfaces between link layer, transaction layer, and physical layer * Optimizelink efficiency, latency, and bandwidthutilization Standards & Industry Engagement * Stay current with emerging ...

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Physical Layer information

See California salary details

$5

$29

$40

How much do physical layer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for physical layer in California is $29.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.59 and $31.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a physical layer?

The Physical Layer is the first and lowest layer in the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model of computer networking. It is responsible for the physical connection between devices, including the transmission and reception of raw bit streams over a physical medium such as cables, fiber optics, or wireless signals. This layer defines the hardware elements involved, such as cables, switches, and network interface cards, and manages aspects like voltage levels, timing, and data rates. Its primary function is to ensure that data is transmitted accurately and efficiently from one device to another.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a physical layer engineer?

To thrive as a Physical Layer Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, signal processing, and communication systems, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with simulation tools like MATLAB, hardware description languages (HDL), and testing equipment such as oscilloscopes and spectrum analyzers is typically required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and attention to detail help set candidates apart in this field. These skills ensure robust and efficient design, implementation, and troubleshooting of physical layer components critical to modern communication systems.

What are some common challenges faced by physical layer engineers when working on large-scale communication systems?

Physical Layer engineers often encounter challenges such as minimizing signal interference, optimizing bandwidth usage, and ensuring reliable data transmission across various environments. Working on large-scale systems requires close collaboration with hardware designers and software engineers to address issues like electromagnetic compatibility and signal integrity. Additionally, adapting designs to meet evolving industry standards and integrating new technologies can be both demanding and rewarding, offering valuable learning opportunities and career growth.

What is the difference between Physical Layer vs Network Technician?

AspectPhysical LayerNetwork Technician
Primary RoleHandles the physical transmission of data, including cables, connectors, and hardwareInstalls, maintains, and troubleshoots network hardware and connectivity issues
Required CertificationsCompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA (basic)CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, or similar
Work EnvironmentData centers, telecom sites, hardware installation sitesOffices, data centers, client sites
Industry UsageTelecommunications, IT infrastructureIT services, networking companies

The Physical Layer focuses on the physical aspects of data transmission, such as cables and hardware, while the Network Technician manages network setup, troubleshooting, and maintenance. Both roles require similar certifications and often work together to ensure network functionality.

What are popular job titles related to Physical Layer jobs in California?

For Physical Layer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Physical Layer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Physical Layer jobs in California are:

Physical Layer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Physical Layer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,381 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Embedded 5G/4G Cellular Physical Layer Data Path Signal Processing Firmware Engineer

Apple

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Apple rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 677 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 30 rated technology retailers

Job description

Apple is where individual imaginations gather together, committing to the values that lead to great work. Every new product we build, service we create, or Apple Store experience we deliver is the result of us making each other's ideas stronger. That happens because every one of us shares a belief that we can make something wonderful and share it with the world, changing lives for the better. It's the diversity of our people and their thinking that inspires the innovation that runs through everything we do. When we bring everybody in, we can do the best work of our lives. Here, you'll do more than join something - you'll add something.
As a Wireless Embedded Physical Layer Data Path Signal Processing Firmware Engineer on this team, you will be at the center of the embedded 4G/5G/6G multimode cellular firmware effort within a silicon design group responsible for crafting and productizing powerful cellular SoCs. This position requires someone comfortable with all aspects of embedded software development, has experience writing firmware, which is tightly coupled to hardware, is not afraid to debate ideas openly, and is flexible enough to shift on constantly evolving requirements.
Description
Implement cellular physical layer algorithms on digital/vector signal processors with tight time, latency, memory and energy budgets by interfacing to specialized cellular ASIC hardware.
If you have strong hardware programming understanding, you will implement firmware which implements 3GPP channels and procedures such as: PDCCH, PDSCH, PBCH PUCCH, PUSCH, PRACH UL/DL HARQ.
If you have linear algebra and signal processing understanding, you may implement some of the following:
• Channel Estimation
• Channel State Feedback
• Interference Cancellation
• Cell Search and Measurement
• Beam Measurement
Work with systems engineers to refine signal processing algorithms for efficient firmware/hardware execution
• Specify, design, and implement the firmware architecture for superior power, performance, and cost.
• Analyze, refine and implement fixed-point firmware and validate bit-exactness to the algorithmic reference
• Assist in the development on pre-silicon emulation systems/virtual platforms and use them for verification.
• Evaluate and implement groundbreaking tools for build, formal verification and test.
• Define methodologies and standard processes
Minimum Qualifications
BS and a minimum of 10 years relevant industry experience.
Experience either with implementing digital signal processing algorithms using special purpose digital/vector signal processing HW -OR- wireless physical layer channels by interfacing to special purpose hardware.
Deep understanding of software engineering principles, and core computer science fundamentals.
Fundamental facility with C and C++, compilers, build and source code control tools.
Experience with silicon prototyping, emulation systems, and virtual platforms.
Solid understanding of computer architecture with particular emphasis on the HW/SW interfaces of high-speed communication subsystems.
Some scripting experience (Python) for developing automation tooling.
Preferred Qualifications
Understanding of 3GPP cellular standards (4G/5G physical layer aspects).
Familiarity with digital/wireless communications.
Significant experience with memory constrained Real Time Operating Systems (RTOS) and concurrent programming.
Familiarity with machine learning (ML) concepts and generative AI.

What Apple employees say

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Get the full story on Breakroom

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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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