Senior Software Engineer, 5G Physical Layer

As a Senior Software Engineer focused on the 5G Physical Layer, you will lead the design, implementation, optimization, and integration of 5G NR PHY software for 3GPP Release 15/16/17 and beyond-5G systems. Your work will focus on real-time, performance-critical PHY algorithms running on processor- and accelerator-based platforms, with close interaction with RF, DSP, and hardware teams.

This role emphasizes PHY algorithm implementation, real-time constraints, and RF/SoC integration, while supporting higher-layer interfaces as needed. The position is based in Duisburg, Germany.

What you will do

• 5G PHY Software Design and Implementation
• Design, implement, and optimize 5G NR PHY algorithms on processor-based and heterogeneous SoC platforms
• Develop software for key PHY functions such as modulation/demodulation, channel estimation, equalization, synchronization, coding/decoding, and HARQ support
• Implement PHY software compliant with 3GPP Rel 15/16/17 specifications
• Hardware, RF, and Platform Integration
• Integrate 5G PHY software with RF front-end hardware and digital baseband chains
• Develop and maintain hardware control software using interfaces such as I2C and SPI
• Work with complex SoC architectures, including ARM, DSPs, and hardware accelerators
• Develop software interfaces toward embedded accelerators and DSP blocks
• Real-Time and Embedded Systems
• Design software within strict real-time constraints and low-latency requirements
• Develop on embedded Linux, DSP operating systems, and lightweight RTOS such as FreeRTOS and Zephyr
• Optimize performance, memory usage, and throughput of PHY software components
• Verification, Testing, and Debug
• Create and execute PHY-level test cases and validation scenarios
• Generate, analyze, and verify PHY test vectors and waveforms
• Verify PHY functionality using 5G test equipment (e.g., R&S, Agilent) and commercial UEs
• Debug complex PHY, timing, RF, and performance issues across software and hardware boundaries
• Technical Leadership and Delivery
• Provide effort estimation and technical input for PHY software development tasks
• Support customer requests related to 5G PHY features and performance
• Document PHY designs, implementations, and results in Confluence or equivalent systems
• Collaboration and Ways of Working
• Collaborate with RF, systems, hardware, and protocol stack teams to ensure clean PHY-MAC interfaces
• Work effectively in a global, distributed team across Europe, India, and the U.S.
• Follow SCRUM / Agile and Continuous Integration development practices
• Operate autonomously while maintaining strong technical communication

What you bring to this role

• Master of Science or Master of Engineering degree in Electrical Engineering, Communications Engineering, or equivalent
• Significant professional experience as an embedded C and C/C++ software engineer
• Strong background in 5G NR PHY and digital communications theory
• Experience working with SDR platforms and SoC architectures
• Working knowledge of MATLAB and Python for PHY algorithm development and analysis
• Strong understanding of real-time embedded software constraints
• Excellent problem-solving, time management, and communication skills

Bonus Points

• Deep understanding of 3GPP 5G NR PHY specifications (Rel 15/16/17+)
• Experience with Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) and satellite communications
• Experience implementing PHY algorithms on DSPs and hardware accelerators
• Strong understanding of link budgets, channel models, and RF impairments
• Experience with waveform generation, PHY simulation, and lab bring-up

Additional Requirements

This is a fast-paced, high-impact environment - flexibility to occasionally work extended hours or weekends during critical periods is expected.