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Wireless Phy Algorithms Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Apple

PHY Design Verification Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$160K - $195K/yr

Our wireless SoC organization is responsible for all aspects of wireless silicon development with a particular emphasis on highly energy-efficient design and new technologies that transform the user ...

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Wireless Phy Algorithms Engineer information

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$73K

$129.5K

$249K

How much do wireless phy algorithms engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for wireless phy algorithms 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 is a wireless PHY algorithms engineer?

Wireless PHY Algorithms Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and optimize algorithms for the physical layer (PHY) of wireless communication systems. They work on technologies such as 5G, Wi-Fi, and other wireless standards to ensure efficient signal transmission, reception, and processing. Their work involves tasks like channel coding, modulation, signal detection, and interference mitigation. These engineers often collaborate with hardware and software teams to implement their algorithms on real-world devices.

What does a wireless PHY algorithms engineer do?

As a Wireless PHY Algorithms Engineer, you can expect to work on projects involving the design, simulation, and optimization of physical layer algorithms for wireless communication systems. Typical daily tasks include developing signal processing algorithms, analyzing system performance, and collaborating closely with hardware, software, and system integration teams to implement and validate your solutions. You'll often participate in cross-functional meetings to ensure your algorithms align with overall product requirements, and you may also contribute to technical documentation and patent filings. This role offers a dynamic environment with opportunities to work on cutting-edge wireless technologies such as 5G, Wi-Fi, or emerging standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a wireless PHY algorithms engineer?

To thrive as a Wireless PHY Algorithms Engineer, you need a strong background in digital signal processing, wireless communications theory, and typically a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with simulation tools like MATLAB, programming languages such as C/C++, and knowledge of wireless standards (e.g., 5G, LTE) are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and effective teamwork skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These abilities are crucial for developing robust physical layer algorithms that ensure reliable, high-performance wireless communication systems.

What is the difference between Wireless Phy Algorithms Engineer vs RF Engineer?

AspectWireless Phy Algorithms EngineerRF Engineer
CredentialsDegree in Electrical Engineering, Communications, or related fields; knowledge of signal processingDegree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, or related fields; certifications like FCC or RF-specific training
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, development teams, wireless technology companiesManufacturing facilities, testing labs, telecommunications companies
Industry UsageDesigning and optimizing physical layer algorithms for wireless protocolsDesigning, testing, and troubleshooting RF hardware and systems

While both roles focus on wireless technology, the Wireless Phy Algorithms Engineer specializes in developing algorithms for the physical layer, whereas the RF Engineer concentrates on hardware and RF system design and testing. Both roles are essential in wireless product development but differ in their core focus and skill sets.

What are popular job titles related to Wireless Phy Algorithms Engineer jobs?

For Wireless Phy Algorithms Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Wireless Phy Algorithms Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $129,511 per year, or $62.3 per hour.

Wireless Firmware Engineer (Starlink Mobile)

Redmond, WA • On-site

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

$145K - $175K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 152 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
WIRELESS FIRMWARE ENGINEER (STARLINK MOBILE)
The Starlink Mobile program is working to provide global cellular connectivity from space. As a wireless firmware engineer, you will play a critical role in developing novel wireless signal processing algorithms, implementing optimized software for use on satellites and ground stations, debugging complex systems and performance issues, and developing production software. This is a unique position which will work closely with both wireless systems engineers and protocol firmware engineers to accelerate wireless PHY development and find solutions to interdisciplinary challenges. The ideal candidate will be equally comfortable with wireless signal processing algorithms and high-performance software development.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Design and implement physical layer (PHY) algorithms for satellite-based 4G/5G (LTE/NR) eNodeB/gNodeB.
  • Develop optimized signal processing algorithms running on resource-constrained CPUs.
  • Develop models and run simulations to analyze and validate overall system performance, including modem performance.
  • Design, implement, test, maintain, and document the wireless PHY and MAC layers of the protocol stack.
  • Identify and debug complex performance issues across the wireless PHY and MAC layers.
  • Participate in architecture, design, and code reviews. Contribute to system dimensioning and algorithm design for next generation hardware.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering or a STEM discipline.
  • 1+ Years of experience with at least 1 of the following; wireless signal processing, wireless communications, modem systems design, wireless systems engineering, DSP (digital signal processing), or physical layer processing (L1).
  • 1+ Years of C/C++ coding experience.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Familiarity with 3GPP 4G/5G (LTE/NR) physical layer design or other modern broadband OFDM waveforms such as WiMAX, 802.11 WiFi, DVB-S2, DVB-C, 5G NTN (non-terrestrial networks).
  • Familiarity with forward error correction (FEC) coding concepts.
  • Basic familiarity with MAC layer (medium access control, L2).
  • Development and optimization of complex signal processing algorithms in both fixed and floating point.
  • Familiarity with Linux command line use, git-based version control, and python programming.
  • SDR (software defined radio) experience.
  • Experience supporting products through the full release cycle including commercial deployment.
  • Strong skills in debugging and performance optimization; 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:
  • Must be willing to work extended hours as needed.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay range:
Software Engineer/Level I: $125,000.00 - $145,000.00/per year
Software Engineer/Level II: $145,000.00 - $175,000.00/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 in Washington State accrue paid sick time in compliance with state and federal law. Company shuttles are offered to employees for roundtrip travel from select Seattle locations to the SpaceX Redmond office Monday to Friday.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
    Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to

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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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