RF Systems Architect - Control Algorithms

Waltham, Massachusetts, United States$116,400 - $203,0003+ years

At Apple, our work is dedicated to creating products that connect and enrich people's lives. The Cellular RF Systems Engineering team sits at the very core of that mission, defining the wireless technologies that enable seamless experiences for hundreds of millions of users worldwide. We are looking for a passionate engineer to design the intelligent control algorithms that orchestrate our RF Front-End hardware. By translating complex 5G and 6G use cases into optimized RF hardware control strategies, you will directly balance RF performance, power consumption, and thermal limits to deliver a world-class wireless experience.

In this role, you will be responsible for the optimal interaction between our RF transceivers and RF Front-End modules. Your primary focus will be breaking down advanced cellular capabilities, such as SRS antenna switching, MIMO and Multi-SIM, into clear system requirements and concrete control flows. This is a highly collaborative role where you will partner with diverse engineering teams across the entire cellular stack to bring these cutting-edge concepts into our next-generation cellular products.

Analyze complex cellular radio access use cases and specify the required RF hardware control algorithms.
Develop optimization strategies that maximize RF performance and hardware utilization for demanding scenarios like multi-SIM.
Author comprehensive system architecture specifications to guide design, implementation, and validation teams.
Drive end-to-end system performance by collaborating tightly with baseband, SoC, RF firmware, and RF hardware teams.
Validate system architectures and algorithms through rigorous simulation and automated requirements analysis.

BSEE required.
Deep understanding of 5G NR and LTE-Advanced physical layer procedures, particularly involving MIMO, SRS, and carrier aggregation.
Strong working knowledge of RF Front-End architectures and the system-level impact of components like PAs, LNAs, filters, and switches.
Proven track record of developing control algorithms, state machines, or system-level models for complex hardware.
Proficiency in Python, MATLAB, or C/C++ for data analysis, system modeling, and algorithm development.
Ability to critically analyze complex trade-offs, such as routing flexibility versus insertion loss, or throughput versus battery life.
Strong communication skills with a proven ability to work across diverse, cross-functional teams to solve highly complex, multi-disciplinary problems.

MS or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
3+ years of industry experience in RF systems or transceiver architectures with a focus on advanced cellular communication topics.
5+ years of experience in RF systems engineering or 10+ years in communications circuit design.
Hands-on experience with RF filter technologies, power amplifier characterization, and Front-End module integration.
Expertise in designing and simulating analog and digital signal processing paths.
Experience applying Machine Learning or AI techniques to solve system-level optimization problems.
History of successfully balancing cutting-edge hardware innovation with the practical constraints of high-volume manufacturing.

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 $116,400 and $203,000, 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

At Apple, we believe accessibility is a fundamental human right. You’ll find that idea reflected in everything here — in our culture, our benefits and our digital tools. By welcoming as many perspectives as possible, we help you build a career where you feel like you belong.

Learn about accessibility in Apple’s workplace

Learn about reasonable accommodations for job applicants

Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.

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