Modem System Test Engineer, 6G/5G Air Interface

Qualcomm

Confirmed live 2 days ago High trust

Quick summary

Work type
On-site
Location
San Diego, CA
Salary
$89,000–$133,600 / yr
Posted
114 days ago
Freshness
Confirmed live 2 days ago
Closes
Nov 17, 2026

Market check

Salary context

Below market

How this pay compares to similar roles

Similar $175k
This role $111k
$74k most similar roles pay here $229k

This role pays less than 96% of similar roles. Most pay $147,943–$202,925 — the shaded band above. At the midpoint, this role pays about $111k versus about $175k for comparable roles.

Based on 240 similar postings.

Employer

About Qualcomm

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

Qualcomm currently has 621 open roles on FindRole.

Listed pay typically runs $147,900–$222,500 across 601 roles with salary data.

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At a glance

TL;DR · Modem System Test Engineer, 6G/5G Air Interface

The Modem System Test Engineer – 6G/5G Air Interface joins the Modem System Test team to develop next-generation wireless technologies including 5G NR and emerging 6G systems. This role involves validating end-to-end system functionality across the cellular protocol stack, including PHY, MAC/RLC/PDCP, RRC, NAS, and TCP/IP. The engineer will define key performance indicators, execute system-level test strategies, and perform log analysis to debug modem issues in lab and field environments. Key responsibilities include translating 3GPP specifications into validation scenarios and supporting the certification of global wireless products. Required skills include knowledge of signal processing, RF propagation, and physical layer procedures like mmWave beam refinement and massive MIMO. Candidates should be proficient in Python and MATLAB, with familiarity regarding OFDMA, Wi-Fi, LTE, and various infrastructure vendor call flows.

What you'll do

  • Validate end-to-end system functionality and performance across the cellular protocol stack including PHY, MAC, RRC, and TCP/IP.
  • Define modem key performance indicators and optimize systems based on conducted, radiated, and live network testing data.
  • Develop and execute system-level test strategies, methodologies, and plans for specific modem features and use cases.
  • Translate 3GPP specifications and carrier requirements into robust validation scenarios and comprehensive test coverage.
  • Perform log analysis and root cause investigation of modem issues in both lab and field environments.
  • Support the integration, certification, and commercialization of global 5G and 6G wireless products.

What we're looking for

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
  • Strong understanding of digital and wireless communication systems, signal processing, and RF propagation.
  • Knowledge of 5G NR PHY, MAC, RLC, PDCP, and RRC protocols.
  • Knowledge of physical layer procedures including signal detection, channel estimation, link adaptation, mmWave beam refinement, and massive MIMO.
  • Experience with test equipment such as protocol simulator call boxes and channel emulators for wireless product verification.
  • Programming skills in Python and MATLAB.
  • Knowledge of OFDMA, Wi-Fi, and LTE.
  • Familiarity with AI/ML concepts and their application to digital communications is a plus.

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