Modem Firmware Engineer

Job Title

Modem Firmware Engineer

Role Summary

Develop firmware and system-level software for cellular modem radio access network (RAN) features, including access stratum, RF software, transceiver control, and multi‑RAT baseband functions. Work on implementations from industry specifications (notably 3GPP LTE and 5G NR) and collaborate with hardware, RFFE, and system teams to deliver high-performance modem IP.

Experience Level

Mid-level. Typical candidate has multiple years of professional engineering experience (see Education Requirements for minimum experience tied to degree level).

Responsibilities

Primary technical responsibilities for the role.

• Design, implement, verify, and validate modem firmware and algorithms for WWAN L1/L2/L3 functionality.
• Own feature design and implementation for modem subsystems; lead technical discussions and design reviews within the domain.
• Develop and review models, simulations, and code; identify accuracy or reliability issues and propose solutions.
• Develop test environments and comprehensive test plans to verify modules against specifications and evaluate cross-team impacts.
• Support modem bring-up, commercialization, and field issue resolution across cross-functional teams.
• Write clear technical documentation and feature descriptions for internal teams and customers.
• Provide guidance to less-experienced engineers; occasionally participate in strategic planning within the area.
• Note: This role does not include supervising direct reports.

Requirements

Core technical skills and background expected; degree information is summarized in Education Requirements below.

• Proficient programming skills in C and C++; experience with Python for tooling or automation is highly desirable.
• Experience with embedded systems, computer architecture, or VLSI-level software/firmware development.
• Knowledge of RF/baseband concepts, signal processing, and communication protocols relevant to WWAN modems.
• Experience creating tests, simulations, and verification environments; strong debugging and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to collaborate across HW, RFFE, systems, and validation teams and to produce clear technical documentation.
• Preferred (nice-to-have): prior WWAN modem development experience, semiconductor or embedded software industry experience, and exposure to modem bring-up and commercialization.
• Preferred (nice-to-have): technical leadership experience on projects (with or without direct reports).

Education Requirements

Degrees: Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field are specified. Alternative: equivalent practical experience is accepted with minimum experience tied to degree level: Bachelor's +4 years, Master's +3 years, PhD +2 years. Preferred qualifications note Master's or PhD and additional industry experience.

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.