Principal Access Network Systems Engineer

Make your mark at Comcast -- a Fortune 30 global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, we reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. Become part of our award-winning technology team that turns big ideas into cutting-edge products, platforms, and solutions that our customers love. We create space to innovate, and we recognize, reward, and invest in your ideas, while ensuring you can proudly bring your authentic self to the workplace. Join us. You’ll do the best work of your career right here at Comcast. (In most cases, Comcast prefers to have employees on-site collaborating unless the team has been designated as virtual due to the nature of their work. If a position is listed with both office locations and virtual offerings, Comcast may be willing to consider candidates who live greater than 100 miles from the office for the remote option.)Job SummaryThis job leads strategic R&D initiatives, pioneering solutions and guiding teams. It involves setting technical specifications, partnering with product teams, and evaluating external solutions. Responsibilities include authoring key documentation and mentoring within the research team.Job DescriptionRole & Team OverviewJoin Comcast’s Network Evolution team, a forward-looking engineering group focused on identifying, validating, and scaling next-generation wireline, optical, and wireless technologies for the HFC network.This team operates as a technology SME team, leading system engineering, innovation and architecture functions, driving early-stage technology evaluation, building proof-of-concepts, and influencing product direction and industry standards. The work is highly cross-disciplinary, spanning RF, optical, and hardware/software co-design, with a strong emphasis on improving bandwidth, latency, reliability, and efficiency. The individual joining this team is a problem solver and a futurist in one!Key ResponsibilitiesLead strategic architecture and system design for next-generation access and transport technologiesEvaluate and compare hardware and software architectures (e.g., FPGA, ASIC, software-based solutions)Design, model, and validate RF and optical networks, including link budgets across multiple topologies (P2P, P2MP, mesh, star)Develop and deliver proof-of-concepts (PoCs) to validate new technologies and influence executive and industry decisionsPerform technical and cost-benefit tradeoff analysis across competing approachesDefine product and system requirements in collaboration with vendors and semiconductor partnersProvide technical leadership and direction to external partners, suppliers, and standards bodies (e.g., CableLabs)Identify and apply innovations from adjacent industries to improve Comcast’s network capabilitiesSkills & ExperienceMust-Haves~10+ years of experience in telecommunications and systems engineeringStrong understanding of physical layer (OSI Layer 1) and RF layer concepts and their impact on system designStrong experience in end to end systems engineering, system performance evaluation, and analysisDeep expertise in at least one domain: RF, optical networking, or wireless (e.g., WiFi / 802.11 / O-RAN)Experience evaluating and working with hardware/software system architectures (FPGA, ASIC, or software-based systems)Proven ability to perform system-level design tradeoffs (technical + cost considerations)Experience building or contributing to proof-of-concepts, prototypes, or early-stage solutionsAbility to collaborate across multi-disciplinary teams and external partners (vendors, chip manufacturers)Experience with Python scripting or automation (ability to streamline workflows and experimentation)Nice-to-HavesExperience with O-RAN architectures and/or 802.11 (WiFi) systemsBackground in telecom product design or R&D environments (vs. operations-focused roles)Familiarity with RF and optical lab environments, including test equipment, emulators, and data capture toolsExposure to CableLabs or industry standards developmentExperience incorporating AI/ML techniques into system design or analysisWhat Success Looks LikeBrings deep technical expertise with system-level thinkingThrives in ambiguous, early-stage innovation environmentsAbility to translate emerging technologies into practical, scalable solutionsStrong communicator who can influence across engineering, leadership, and industry stakeholdersAbout Our Perks & Benefits:We are determined to create an environment where our employees feel valued, understand our business goals, and are motivated.Here's a look at just some of the perks and benefits we make available to our US-based employees:Medical & Dental401(k) Savings PlanGenerous paid time offLife Milestones - from adoption assistance, childcare resources, pet insurance, and more, Comcast supports you at all life stages.Courtesy Services - We offer all of our full-time employees in serviceable areas free digital TV and internet.Discount tickets for Universal Resorts, including theme park tickets and onsite hotel rooms.Learn more at jobs.comcast.com/benefitsReasonable AccommodationWe will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, perform essential job functions, and receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request an accommodation.Disclaimer:This information has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees in this role. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications.Job Profile: Engineer 5, Technical Research & DevelopmentSkillsCollaboration, OSI Layers, TelecommunicationsWe believe that benefits should connect you to the support you need when it matters most, and should help you care for those who matter most. That's why we provide an array of options, expert guidance and always-on tools that are personalized to meet the needs of your reality—to help support you physically, financially and emotionally through the big milestones and in your everyday life.Please visit the benefits summary on our careers site for more details.EducationBachelor's DegreeWhile possessing the stated degree is preferred, Comcast also may consider applicants who hold some combination of coursework and experience, or who have extensive related professional experience.Certifications (if applicable)Relevant Work Experience10 Years +Comcast is an equal opportunity workplace. We will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable law.SummaryLocation: PA - Philadelphia, 1800 Arch StType: Full time