RF Communications Systems Engineer

About the job

At Apple, we strive every single day to craft products that enrich people’s lives. Our successes are the result of skilled domain experts working in an environment which encourages creativity, collaboration, and re-thinking of old problems in new ways! As a member of the Satellite Connectivity Group, you will work on the satellite network that enables connectivity to iPhone and Watch Ultra when off the grid without cellular or Wi-Fi coverage. Every day, Apple customers use Emergency SOS, Roadside assistance, and Messages via satellite to stay connected when they have no other means to communicate. You will have the unique and rewarding opportunity to shape this and other critical services, to the benefit and safety of millions of Apple device users.

Our team is seeking a RF communications systems engineer to build and improve space-based communications systems that touch people around the world. You will be working with an international, cross-functional team to deliver the future of high-performance, best-in-class wireless communications for millions of Apple customers. This includes everything from defining system architectures, to writing requirements and technical budgets, assessing system performance, planning test campaigns, and troubleshooting issues. You will be closely collaborating with internal teams as well as managing external suppliers to deliver on our vision. Help us build the next-generation Apple experience!

We’re looking for an engineer who will:

• Assess and trade performance of complex RF communications systems, breaking down contributions and interactions from subsystems and component units.
• Develop RF system budgets (link budgets, gain and noise figure cascades, interference analyses, etc.)
• Oversee and review RF system testing with internal teams and external suppliers.
• Lead anomaly root-cause investigations across development, test campaigns, and operational systems.
• Coordinate and drive alignment among cross-functional teams covering a diverse set of technical domains.
• Translate complex findings into simple, compelling narratives that motivate action and drive improvements.
• Travel regularly to collaborate closely with internal teams and external suppliers.

Minimum Qualifications

• 5+ years experience in RF or communications systems engineering or related experience.
• BS in Engineering, Physics, Computer Science or related discipline.
• Experience designing and deploying large scale RF communications infrastructure.
• Strong knowledge of satellite RF communications systems.
• Proficient at analyzing cascaded systems performance.
• Proficient with link budgets and link quality assessments.
• Excellent written & verbal communication skills, and solid teamwork & leadership skills.
• Export Compliance Requirement: This position requires access to U.S. export-controlled technology and technical data regulated under the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Applicants must be eligible to access this export-controlled information.

Preferred Qualifications

• 7+ years experience in space-based RF communications systems.
• MS/PhD in Engineering, Physics, Computer Science or related discipline.
• Fluent in satellite, ground-station, and end-to-end RF systems design.
• Familiarity with phased array antenna and digital signal processing systems.
• Experience deploying and testing space-based RF communications systems.
• Experience with in-orbit operations.

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 $175,000 and $308,500, 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.

EEO Statement

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

Accessibility

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

Application Deadline

Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.