Senior Software Engineer, 5G Physical Layer

Job Description

Job Description

Ready to make connectivity from space universally accessible, secure and actionable? Then you’ve come to the right place!

E-Space is bridging Earth and space to enable hyper-scaled deployments of Internet of Things (IoT) solutions and services. We are building a highly-advanced low Earth orbit (LEO) space system that will fundamentally change the design, economics, manufacturing and service delivery associated with traditional satellite and terrestrial IoT systems.

We’re intentional, we’re unapologetically curious and we’re 100% committed to innovate space-based communications and deliver actionable intelligence that will expand global economies, protect space and our planet and enhance our overall quality of life.

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 Saratoga, USA.

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.

This is a full time, exempt position, based out of our Saratoga office. The target base pay for this position is $150,000 - $200,000 annually. The total compensation packaged will be determined by various factors such as your relevant job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

We are redefining how satellites are designed, manufactured and used—so we’re looking for candidates with passion, deep knowledge and direct experience on LEO satellite component development, design and in-orbit activities. If that’s your experience – then we’ll be immediately wow-ed.

E-Space is not currently able to provide employment sponsorship for candidates who do not hold work authorization for the location of this role.

Why E-Space is right for you:

As a member of our team, you will play a crucial role in driving our success. Our team members have a strong sense of dedication and responsibility; this includes a strong commitment to our mission to create an entirely new suite of global capabilities to improve lives, business efficiencies and build a smarter planet. This means that there will be times when extra hours, including nights and weekends, may be needed to meet critical deadlines and mission goals. In return, we offer a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development and the chance to make a meaningful impact in a high-growth industry.

We want you to make the most of your journey at E-Space. That’s why we support and invest in the physical, emotional and financial well-being of our team members and their families. Some of what you can expect when working at E-Space:

• An opportunity to really make a difference

• Sustainability at our core

• Fair and honest workplace

• Innovative thinking is encouraged

• Competitive salaries

• Continuous learning and development

• Health and wellness care options

• Financial solutions for the future

• Optional legal services (US only)

• Paid holidays

• Paid time off

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.