Staff Embedded Systems Algorithm Engineer

Qualcomm

Quick summary

Work type: On-site
Location: Santa Clara, CA
Salary: $156,853–$227,800 / yr
Posted: 3 days ago
Closes: Dec 22, 2026
Nearby: 99+ roles within 25 mi

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Salary context

Competitive pay

How this pay compares to similar roles

Similar $193k

This role $192k

$137k most similar roles pay here $247k

This role pays less than 54% of similar roles. Most pay $164,900–$222,000 — the shaded band above. At the midpoint, this role pays about $192k versus about $193k 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 834 open roles on FindRole.

Listed pay typically runs $148,300–$222,500 across 514 roles with salary data.

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At a glance

TL;DR · Staff Embedded Systems Algorithm Engineer

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As a Staff Embedded Systems Algorithm Engineer at Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., you will lead the research and development of advanced algorithms for embedded SoC software architectures in next-generation mobile devices and wireless networks. Your responsibilities include designing complex systems-on-chip solutions that are reliable, cost-effective, and power-efficient, while also overseeing lab environment setup and automation to streamline validation workflows. You will interact with WLAN performance validation processes, execute tests, debug discrepancies, and correlate results across multiple stages to ensure alignment with system-level expectations. Key technologies involve C++, Bash scripting, and expertise in radio communication theory and digital signal processing. This role requires a deep understanding of 3G/4G/5G wireless platforms and the ability to contribute to standards review sessions and QUALCOMM's IP portfolio.

Skills

C++ Python Bash Docker Git CI/CD Linux WLAN 5G 3G 4G PHY MAC DSP AI Automated Testing Scripting Embedded Systems Signal Processing Performance Analysis Memory Management Bus Architecture Cache Core Architecture

What you'll do

Develops and tunes algorithms for embedded SoC software architectures in next-gen mobile devices.
Configures WLAN control software on x86 platforms and develops scripting interfaces for test equipment.
Executes and debugs tests covering TX EVM, output power, RX PER, and device calibrations.
Identifies discrepancies across validation stages to isolate root causes and drive alignment between pre-silicon analysis and production test performance.
Generates and consolidates performance requirements data for 3G/4G/5G wireless platforms.
Participates in design review sessions and contributes to QUALCOMM's IP portfolio.

What we're looking for

4+ years of experience in embedded systems or related field
Expertise in algorithms, digital signal processing, and radio communication theory
Proficient in C++ and scripting languages like Bash for automation
Experience with system-on-chip (SoC) software architectures and QoS standards
Strong skills in performance analysis and validation across multiple stages
Knowledge of 3G/4G/5G wireless platforms and WLAN technologies required
Participation in design reviews and contributions to IP portfolio preferred

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