Cellular RF Receiver Algorithms Systems Engineer

Apple

Apple

Software Engineering

Waltham, MA, USA

USD 162,500-286,400 / year + Equity

Posted on Apr 12, 2026
Apple’s RF System Engineering team is seeking a motivated and dedicated expert to define the next generation of Cellular RF Receiver architectures. In this role, you will architect and deliver groundbreaking wireless solutions for future Apple products, working on today's 5G New Radio and blazing the path to 6G. You will have a unique opportunity to develop the core technologies that enable an outstanding wireless experience for millions of customers worldwide.
In this role, you will drive the control architecture and algorithms for the RF receiver, collaborating across systems engineering, RF circuit design, digital implementation, platform architecture, software engineering, and production teams to define and deliver solutions that push the boundaries of performance, quality, and implementation efficiency.
  • Translate 3GPP, system-level and performance requirements into concepts and specifications for the RX line-up and RX features.
  • Contribute to the entire product lifecycle, from initial architectural concept and algorithm definition until silicon validation and mass production.
  • Collaborate with RF circuit design teams to understand RF impairments, configuration and dynamic requirements.
  • Develop innovative concepts and algorithms to effectively control receiver components, calibrate, and compensate for RF impairments to ensure optimal system performance.
  • Conduct conceptual work on novel digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms, including advanced multi-rate digital filter structures, to achieve efficient signal line-up at optimized power consumption and minimal area.
  • Run simulations (e.g., MATLAB, Python, C++) for performance analysis.
  • Lead the hardware and software partitioning within the transceiver/modem topology, optimizing the architecture for efficiency.
  • Author detailed specifications and build reference models for hardware and software implementation teams.
  • Collaborate with baseband system engineering teams on system requirements, optimal system partitioning and complex modem use cases.
  • BS and 10+ years of relevant industry experience.
  • Understanding of Cellular Radio/3GPP Standards (UMTS, LTE, 5G NR FR1/2) and familiarity with emerging 6G research directions.
  • Proven knowledge of RF receiver architectures from antenna to analog/digital base band processing including a comprehensive understanding of RF circuit impairments and their impact on system performance.
  • Deep understanding of cellular system use cases and RF/baseband interactions and procedures.
  • System Engineering experience with a deep background in DSP for wireless communication systems. Experience in refining from abstract definition towards bit true reference models.
  • Proficiency in hardware/software co-design and a comprehensive grasp of the trade-offs inherent in digital hardware and software/firmware implementations.
  • Expert-level proficiency in Python or C++ is required.
  • Experience applying Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Learning (ML) to improve multi-objective optimizations and accelerate engineering workflows.
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a global, multi-disciplinary team.
  • Expertise in microcontroller architectures used for real time operation and how to program them.
  • Proficiency in AI/ML native applications, with experience utilizing tools such as TensorFlow or PyTorch.
  • Familiarity with RFIC design, layout considerations, and semiconductor processes.
  • Knowledge of cellular modem architectures including their associated concepts and algorithms.
  • PhD degree with 3+ years of industry experience in RF, focus on cellular receiver architectures.
  • Proficiency in mathematical modeling and analysis, with the ability to build abstract system models leveraging control theory for understanding and designing control and closed-loop feedback systems, optimization theory for multi-objective trade-space analysis and statistical methods for performance modeling under uncertainty.
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 $162,500 and $286,400, 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.

Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We seek to promote equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. Learn more about your EEO rights as an applicant.

Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.

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