Principal Positioning Algorithms Engineer (San Diego)

Principal Positioning Algorithms Engineer

PHY Wireless | La Jolla / UTC, San Diego, CA

Reports to: Chief Technology Officer

Focus: LTE • 5G NR • NTN

We locate cellular devices without GNSS. We're looking for someone to lead the algorithms.

ABOUT PHY WIRELESS

PHY Wireless builds positioning technology for cellular devices. We locate a device using the signals cellular networks already transmit, with no GNSS receiver. That means less power, less cost, and fewer parts, which matters a lot for IoT. The goal is accuracy good enough to replace GNSS for most applications, without giving up that power advantage.

Our work covers the LTE family, including Cat-1, LTE-M, and NB-IoT, as well as 5G NR and non-terrestrial networks. We're also active in 3GPP, helping shape 6G positioning and ISAC, where the cellular system becomes a radar system.

THE PROBLEM

A single position fix can draw on tens of cells. Many are faint. Some sit underneath much stronger neighbors. Dense urban environments add multipath and blockage on top of that.

The job is to get the best possible accuracy out of those measurements, on a device with a small power and compute budget. Nearly every design decision is a trade between performance and complexity. Getting those trades right is the core of what we do.

THE ROLE

You'll lead the development of our positioning algorithms. That covers research, simulation, implementation, and validation against live network data, all the way through to product.

It's a hands-on, principal-level role. You'll work closely with our CTO, CEO, and engineering team, with a high degree of independence and ownership.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

• Lead positioning algorithm development across LTE, 5G NR, and future systems.

• Detect and measure tens of cells per fix in difficult RF conditions.

• Build estimators from time-of-arrival, TDOA, Doppler, and related measurements.

• Model multipath, clock error, and geometry. Derive performance bounds and know where you stand against them.

• Build simulation and analysis tools, and validate against live network data.

• Find the right balance between accuracy and complexity for low-power devices.

• Extend our methods to non-terrestrial networks, for both positioning and timing.

• Define the algorithm roadmap, and drive performance improvements from release to release.

• Lead algorithm integration with chipset partners, from proof of concept to product.

• Contribute to patents, and represent PHY Wireless in 3GPP.

WHAT MATTERS TO US

Depth in estimation. It matters more than cellular experience. A strong GNSS, navigation, or radar background can be an excellent fit. The cellular side can be learned.

Building things. We value people who have taken an algorithm from formulation through simulation and implementation to real measured data.

Independent judgment. We want a colleague who will question our approach and make the case with math.

WHAT YOU BRING

• PhD in electrical engineering, applied math, physics, or a related field preferred. An MS or BS with strong, relevant experience is also welcome.

• Deep knowledge of statistical signal processing, estimation theory, and optimization.

• A track record of estimation algorithms that hold up on real data.

• Strong Matlab and Python skills for scientific computing and simulation.

• Comfort leading complex technical work independently.

• Clear communication, written and spoken.

BONUS POINTS

• GNSS or wireless positioning

• LTE and 5G NR

• Kalman, MLE, and Bayesian estimation

• Multipath and synchronization

• Machine learning for signal processing

• NTN, LEO satellites, or radar

WHY PHY WIRELESS

You'll work on fundamental problems that end up in real products. Your work will shape the technology, the research direction, and where we go next. You'll also be close to the standards work that defines future signals.

We're focused on getting our technology to market, and everyone here has a direct hand in that.

We're based in the La Jolla/UTC area of San Diego, with a flexible work culture. We offer a competitive salary, performance bonus, benefits, and equity as company stock.

HOW TO APPLY

Please send your resume and a short note about an estimation problem you've worked on to View email address on apply.placed-app.com. Include the position title in the subject line.

PHY Wireless is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds.