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

Summary

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.

Pay & Benefits — San Diego, California, United States

At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $175,000 and $308,500, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.

Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple’s discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You’ll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses — including tuition. Additionally, this role might 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.

Application Deadline

Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.

Pay & Benefits — Sunnyvale, California, United States

At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $184,700 and $324,800, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.

Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple’s discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You’ll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses — including tuition. Additionally, this role might 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.