5G Cellular Systems Engineer, Staff

Qualcomm

Quick summary

Work type: On-site
Location: San Diego, CA
Salary: $134,800–$202,200 / yr
Posted: 152 days ago
Closes: Jul 15, 2026
Nearby: 99+ roles within 25 mi

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Salary context

Competitive pay

How this pay compares to similar roles

Similar $179k

This role $168k

$121k most similar roles pay here $231k

This role pays less than 55% of similar roles. Most pay $148,650–$208,750 — the shaded band above. At the midpoint, this role pays about $168k versus about $179k for comparable roles.

Based on 239 similar postings.

Employer

About Qualcomm

Qualcomm is a leading American semiconductor and telecommunications company based in San Diego, CA.

Qualcomm currently has 753 open roles on FindRole.

Listed pay typically runs $152,950–$231,000 across 436 roles with salary data.

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At a glance

TL;DR · 5G Cellular Systems Engineer, Staff

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Qualcomm Government Technologies is hiring a senior 5G cellular systems engineer to join their team focused on integrating commercial Qualcomm System on Chip processors into U.S. government applications. This role involves architecting and simulating novel solutions using advanced knowledge of 5G NR protocols, RF principles, and signal processing techniques such as MIMO and beamforming. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with cellular modem subsystems, proficiency in Matlab for simulations, and the ability to navigate 3GPP standards to inform design decisions. Key responsibilities include generating detailed system documentation and collaborating effectively within multi-functional engineering teams. Candidates should possess a strong background in communication theory and algorithm development specific to 5G, along with excellent interpersonal skills and proven experience in creating technical documentation.

Skills

5G 3GPP Matlab PHY MAC RLC PDCP R RF MIMO Communication Theory Signal Processing Simulation Algorithm IQ Sample Processing Link Budget System Design Documentation

What you'll do

Design solutions integrating Qualcomm SoC processors into U.S. Government applications.
Develop cellular (5G NR) system architectures from PHY to upper layers.
Conduct simulations using Matlab and other tools for performance analysis.
Navigate 3GPP standards to inform modem architecture design decisions.
Write detailed system design documentation for government projects.
Expertise in signal processing techniques including MIMO, beamforming, and IQ sample processing.

What we're looking for

Strong knowledge of cellular (5G NR) PHY/MAC/RLC/PDCP and upper layers.
Expertise in communication theory, signal processing, and MIMO techniques.
Experience with 3GPP protocol standards and cellular modem simulation coding.
Ability to work effectively within multi-functional engineering teams.
Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills for system design documentation.
Familiarity with IQ sample processing, channel estimation, error correction, and synchronization.

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