Firmware Engineer – 5G Modem

Job Title

Firmware Engineer – 5G Modem

Role Summary

Design and implement modem firmware and related system features for cellular (WWAN) transceivers and radio access strata, working across firmware, hardware, RF front-end, and system teams. Deliver high-performance, cost-effective modem IP that meets 3GPP (LTE/5G NR) specifications and customer requirements.

Position sits in the Modem Technologies engineering group and contributes to feature design, verification, bring-up, and commercialization of multi-RAT modem solutions.

Experience Level

Mid-level. Typical experience ranges from ~2–4+ years depending on degree; role expects several years of engineering experience in software, hardware, electrical, or systems engineering domains.

Responsibilities

Key duties include design, implementation, verification, and support of modem firmware and related models and test environments.

• Design and implement firmware/features for modem HW, transceiver control, and radio access strata across multi-RAT modems.
• Develop and review models, simulations, and code; identify and resolve accuracy/reliability issues.
• Create and execute comprehensive test plans and test environments; support cross-team validation and bring-up.
• Provide technical guidance to less-experienced engineers and participate in design reviews.
• Investigate and resolve moderately complex implementation and field issues during commercialization.
• Produce clear technical documentation and feature descriptions for internal and external users.

Requirements

Must-have technical skills and experience for successful performance in the role.

• Practical experience developing embedded/firmware software (C/C++).
• Familiarity with embedded systems, computer architecture, or related software/firmware development.
• Experience creating tests, validation plans, and technical documentation for complex modules.
• Ability to work cross-functionally with HW, RF, and systems teams and participate in design reviews.
• Strong problem solving skills and ability to analyze incomplete information to reach solutions.

Nice-to-have:

• Python scripting for tools and test automation.
• Experience with WWAN modem development, RF/baseband signal processing, communication protocols, and VLSI.
• Industry experience in wireless, semiconductor, or embedded software (including ~6+ months modem-specific experience and 1+ year industry experience as noted in source).

Education Requirements

Degree alternatives accepted: Bachelor's in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field plus ~4+ years relevant experience; OR Master's in the same fields plus ~3+ years; OR PhD in the same fields plus ~2+ years. Candidate applications with equivalent practical experience will be considered. Preferred: Master's or PhD in relevant technical fields.

About the Company

Company: Qualcomm

Headquarters: San Diego, California, United States

Qualcomm is a global leader in semiconductor and telecommunications equipment, specializing in mobile technologies and innovations. Known for its Adreno GPUs, the company provides solutions enabling advancements in mobile gaming, AI, VR/AR, and autonomous driving. Qualcomm's cutting-edge technology and commitment to high-performance, power-efficient designs drive the evolution of mobile graphics and connectivity worldwide.