1

Systems Engineer Phy Mac Layer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Strong programming skills in C/C++ for real-time and embedded systems. * In-depth knowledge of 3GPP ... Preferred: Knowledge of 5G SA/NSA network architectures and PHY-MAC interactions. * Excellent ...

Strong programming skills in C/C++ for real-time and embedded systems. * In-depth knowledge of 3GPP ... Preferred: Knowledge of 5G SA/NSA network architectures and PHY-MAC interactions. * Excellent ...

S. Special Forces. The Role Specter is hiring an RF Systems Engineer to define and ... Root-cause and optimize performance across PHY, MAC, and network layers * Test interoperability ...

The Role Specter is hiring an RF Systems Engineer to define and optimize the end-to-end wireless ... Root-cause and optimize performance across PHY, MAC, and network layers * Test interoperability ...

$248K - $348K/yr

... layer while meeting stringent throughput, latency, timing, and reliability requirements.You collaborate with MAC control-plane, PHY, modem, FPGA, networking, platform, and systems engineers to ...

Showing results 21-40

Systems Engineer Phy Mac Layer information

See salary details

$53.5K

$127.2K

$167K

How much do systems engineer phy mac layer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for systems engineer phy mac layer in the United States is $127,215.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,000.00 and $157,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical collaboration dynamics for a systems engineer Phy Mac Layer?

As a Systems Engineer focused on PHY/MAC Layer development, you will frequently collaborate with cross-functional teams, including hardware engineers, software developers, and protocol designers. Collaboration often involves regular technical discussions, joint troubleshooting sessions, and integration testing to ensure system compatibility and performance. You'll also participate in design reviews and contribute to documentation, making clear communication skills and teamwork essential. This collaborative environment helps drive innovation and ensures seamless implementation of wireless communication protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a systems engineer Phy Mac Layer?

To thrive as a Systems Engineer Phy Mac Layer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, wireless communications, and signal processing, typically with a relevant degree and experience in PHY/MAC protocol development. Familiarity with simulation tools like MATLAB, network analyzers, and industry standards such as 3GPP or IEEE 802.11 is crucial. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and address complex technical challenges. These skills ensure the efficient design, integration, and optimization of wireless communication systems that meet industry requirements.

What is the difference between Systems Engineer Phy Mac Layer vs Network Engineer?

AspectSystems Engineer Phy Mac LayerNetwork Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fields; certifications like Cisco CCNA or CompTIA Network+Bachelor's in Computer Science, Networking, or related; similar certifications like Cisco CCNA or CompTIA Network+
Work EnvironmentDesigning, testing, and implementing physical and MAC layer network components; labs and fieldworkPlanning, configuring, and troubleshooting network infrastructure; office and data center settings
Industry UsageTelecommunications, hardware manufacturing, network equipment developmentIT services, enterprise networks, internet service providers

The Systems Engineer Phy Mac Layer focuses on the physical and MAC layers of network communication, dealing with hardware and low-level protocols. In contrast, the Network Engineer manages overall network infrastructure, including configuration and troubleshooting. Both roles require similar certifications and often work in overlapping industries, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What are popular job titles related to Systems Engineer Phy Mac Layer jobs?

For Systems Engineer Phy Mac Layer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Systems Engineer Phy Mac Layer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,215 per year, or $61.2 per hour.

Wireless MAC Standards Architect (San Francisco)

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Apple
Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

$171K - $302K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Key responsibilities

  • Participate in and contribute MAC protocols and algorithms to wireless standards organizations.

  • Analyze standards contributions to understand performance benefits, implementation complexities, and architecture and design tradeoffs.

  • Collaborate with hardware and software teams to evaluate and simulate system-level performance.


Apple rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 684 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Overview

At Apple, we work every single day to craft products that enrich people’s lives. As a member of our Wireless Silicon Design group, you will collaborate with cross-functional teams to innovate, develop ideas for newer generations of wireless communication protocols, participate in the development of emerging applications and devices, and drive wireless architectures. You will be responsible for developing innovative wireless SoC products that are enjoyed by millions of Apple customers.

Responsibilities
  • Participate in and contribute MAC protocols and algorithms to wireless standards organizations.
  • Analyze standards contributions to understand performance benefits, implementation complexities, and architecture and design tradeoffs.
  • Simulate system-level performance of MAC contributions using simulation tools such as ns3, OpNet, C/C++, or Python.
  • Collaborate closely with internal teams to keep them informed about updates to standards and ensure alignment on priorities.
  • Develop, propose, and simulate innovative proprietary MAC layer protocols and cross-layer algorithms for emerging applications.
  • Collaborate with hardware and software teams to evaluate and simulate system-level performance.
  • Design innovative PHY/MAC cross-layer algorithms to achieve robust performance in all environments.
Minimum Qualifications
  • BS and a minimum of 10 years of relevant industry experience.
  • Proven track record of participation in wireless standardization organizations, such as IEEE 802.11, IEEE 802.15, Bluetooth, UWB, or similar technologies.
  • Familiarity with MAC protocols and algorithms of wireless standards, such as IEEE 802.11, IEEE 802.15, Bluetooth SIG, or similar technologies.
  • Knowledge of wireless MAC protocols and algorithms, including channel access, Quality of Service (QoS), power saving, low latency, coexistence, security, and privacy.
  • Experience with modeling and simulations using tools like ns3, OpNet, C/C++, or Python.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills and ability to present complex technical concepts clearly and concisely.
  • Self-motivated and passionate about finding innovative solutions to problems.
Preferred Qualifications
  • MSEE or Ph.D. preferred, with a focus on communication systems or signal processing.
  • Experience with MAC modem architecture, algorithms, hardware design, and software design.
  • Experience with PHY/MAC cross-layer algorithm design.
  • Strong and proven leadership abilities.
Pay & Benefits

At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. The base pay range for this role is between $171,600 and $302,200, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location. Apple employees also have the opportunity to become Apple shareholders through discretionary employee stock programs. They are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards and can purchase Apple stock at a discount through Apple’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Benefits include comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and reimbursement for certain educational expenses, including tuition. This role may be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits.

Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We seek to promote equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. Learn more about your EEO rights as an applicant.

Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

What Apple employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Apple logo

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