Cellular RF Receiver Systems Architect

Apple; Sunnyvale (CA); On-site; USD 147,400 - 272,100; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical and dental coverage

Retirement benefits

Employee stock programs

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

A leading technology company in Sunnyvale, California is seeking an expert to architect next-generation Cellular RF Receiver architectures. This role involves driving innovation, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and delivering advanced wireless solutions for future products. The ideal candidate should have a strong background in RF system design, with at least 3 years of experience and proficiency in MATLAB and Python. The position offers competitive pay and extensive benefits, supporting both professional and personal development.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years of relevant industry experience.
• Demonstrated experience in designing complex Cellular RF systems.
• Mastery of RF line‑up analysis for modern receiver architecture.
• In‑depth understanding of 3GPP standards.

Responsibilities

• Drive innovation and execution of RF Receiver architectures.
• Translate system requirements into component specifications.
• Perform trade‑off studies and ensure performance targets are met.
• Author specifications for RFIC and RF frontend module design.

Skills

RF systems design

System Engineering

MATLAB

Python

Analytical skills

Education

BS in relevant field

Tools

MATLAB

Python

Job description

Summary

Apple’s RF System Engineering team is seeking a motivated and talented 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 pioneering 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.

Description

As a key member of our industry-leading team, you will drive the evolution of our RF receiver architectures. You will influence and collaborate with RF circuit design, platform architecture, and software engineering teams to define and implement concepts that deliver uncompromising performance and quality.

Responsibilities

• You will drive innovation and execution through the organization.
• Innovate and architect the complete RF Receiver chain, from the antenna through the RF frontend to the digital baseband.
• You will translate high-level system requirements into detailed component and block‑level specifications. Develop and own the detailed RF line‑up analysis. This includes creating and maintaining system‑level simulations using Matlab and Python, a comprehensive level plan, and link budget.
• You will influence architecture decisions, perform trade‑off studies, and ensure performance targets are met.
• Author detailed system and block‑level specifications for internal RFIC and external RF frontend module (FEM) design partners.
• Work with other teams to drive the concept‑to‑product journey, ensuring successful integration, validation, and optimization of the Receiver from the architectural phase through to mass production.

Minimum Qualifications

• BS and a minimum of 3 years of relevant industry experience.
• Demonstrated System Engineering experience in designing complex Cellular RF systems, with deep expertise in state‑of‑the‑art receiver architectures.
• Demonstrated ability to influence and drive innovation and execution excellence across an organization.
• Mastery of RF line‑up analysis and detailed development of a level plan for modern receiver architecture.
• Deep theoretical and practical understanding of RF system performance metrics (NF, non‑linearity, phase noise, IQ imbalance) and their direct impact on overall system performance.
• In‑depth understanding of 3GPP standards with a focus on RF requirements and physical layer procedures.
• Proficiency in using MATLAB and Python for RF system modeling and simulations.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to communicate complex technical concepts effectively to diverse, cross‑functional global teams.
• Experience with lab bring‑up, system calibration, and debugging RF hardware.

Preferred Qualifications

• Deep understanding of cellular system use cases, transmit/receive interactions, and coexistence challenges in complex consumer electronics.
• Experience applying artificial intelligence (AI) or machine learning (ML) to enhance multi‑objective optimization of the RF line‑up and link budget models.
• Familiarity with modern digital modem architectures.
• Familiarity with RFIC design, layout considerations, and semiconductor processes.

Pay & Benefits

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 $147,400 and $272,100, 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.