#5G/6G Modem Software Engineer
About The Position
Qualcomm Technologies (QCT) is a global leader in wireless connectivity and intelligent computing, powering the 5G era with its Snapdragon platforms. These platforms integrate advanced 5G modem-RF systems with on-device AI for connected intelligent edge devices. QCT collaborates with over 100 network operators worldwide and leads the industry in modem engineering, setting standards for 5G-Advanced and the development of 6G. This role involves designing and developing modem software for 5G/6G NR connectivity across Qualcomm's Snapdragon chipset portfolio. The engineer will work on protocol stack layers (L1/L2/L3) to implement 3GPP-compliant features, create real-time scheduling and resource management algorithms, and use custom scripting languages for dynamic modem reconfiguration based on network conditions, device states, and AI optimization signals. The position also includes architecting next-generation frameworks to enable OEM and operator partners in delivering unique 5G experiences. The work will significantly impact how billions of devices connect and utilize on-device intelligence. Ideal candidates possess a strong background in C/C++ software design, real-time embedded systems, a deep understanding of wireless communication principles, excellent problem-solving skills, and a passion for advancing wireless connectivity and AI-powered communications.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Electronics/Communication Engineering, or a related field
- 1–2 years of academic or industry experience in C/C++ programming
- Foundational understanding of embedded systems, real-time operating systems, and data structures & algorithms
- Basic knowledge of wireless communication concepts (OFDM, MIMO, channel coding) or digital signal processing fundamentals
Nice To Haves
- Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Electronics/Communication, or Wireless Communications
- 2+ years of industry experience in embedded software development for wireless/telecom systems
- Experience with Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) such as QuRT, FreeRTOS, ThreadX, or Zephyr
- Strong software design and object-oriented design/implementation skills (design patterns, SOLID principles)
- Working knowledge of 3GPP 5G NR / LTE specifications (TS 38.xxx / TS 36.xxx series)
- Experience with modem protocol stack development, state machines, or wireless protocol implementation
- Familiarity with AI/ML fundamentals and interest in applying machine learning to modem optimization (e.g., adaptive scheduling, predictive resource management, beam prediction, link adaptation)
- Understanding of scripting or domain-specific languages for system configuration and modem parametrization
- Experience with debugging and performance profiling in embedded environments (JTAG, Trace32/Lauterbach, QXDM, log analysis tools)
- Familiarity with version control systems (Git/Perforce), CI/CD pipelines, and Agile development practices
- Knowledge of multi-threading, concurrency, inter-process communication, and memory management in resource-constrained environments
- Experience with simulation/emulation environments or lab equipment
Responsibilities
- Design, develop, debug, and optimize modem firmware/software for LTE, 5G-Advanced protocol stack layers and early 6G research prototyping
- Develop and maintain real-time embedded software on proprietary RTOS (QuRT) with strict latency and throughput constraints
- Collaborate with systems, architecture, and hardware teams on modem bring-up, integration, and performance optimization
- Analyze and resolve complex field issues, interoperability problems, and network-specific behaviors using protocol logs, trace tools, and debuggers
- Write and maintain unit tests, integration tests, and automation scripts to ensure software quality
- Participate in code reviews, design discussions and technical documentation
Benefits
- Competitive annual discretionary bonus program
- Opportunity for annual RSU grants
- Highly competitive benefits package designed to support your success at work, at home, and at play
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
