5G Devices Hardware Engineer

About us

One team. Global challenges. Infinite opportunities. At Viasat, we're on a mission to deliver connections with the capacity to change the world. For more than 35 years, Viasat has helped shape how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the globe communicate. We're looking for people who think big, act fearlessly, and create an inclusive environment that drives positive impact to join our team.

What you'll do

We are seeking an experienced 5G Devices Staff Hardware Engineer to lead the hardware design of 5G NTN devices operating on Viasat networks. This role is responsible for creating reference hardware designs, a modular hardware design that enables integration of market-specific hardware submodules, and ensuring robust, secure, and high-performance custom devices for a variety of applications including automotive, aviation, and maritime markets.

This position focuses on 5G device/User Equipment (UE) hardware architecture and integration, distinct from 5G RAN (gNodeB/base station) or 5G Core network hardware roles. Candidates should have experience with device-side hardware, COTS chipset integration, and hardware security features.

The day-to-day

Chipset Evaluation & Selection

• Evaluate and benchmark COTS 5G NTN chipsets from leading vendors for use with Viasat's network.

• Analyze, understand and help influence chipset roadmaps, feature sets, and vendor support to inform hardware platform decisions.

• Lead technical due diligence and vendor technical engagement for chipset selection.

Reference Hardware Design & Development

• Define (generate requirements), architect and develop cost effective reference hardware designs for 5G NR-NTN terminals (UE) for non-consumer markets.

• Develop hardware design guidelines, best practices, and documentation for OEM/ODM partners.

• Ensure reference designs are modular, scalable, and adaptable to requirements of multiple markets.

Hardware Integration & Customization

• Integrate COTS 5G chipsets, including satellite and terrestrial connectivity modules.

• Design and validate hardware interfaces with specific submodules (e.g., eSIM, GNSS, secure elements, RF front-ends).

• Lead the integration of hardware-based root of trust, secure boot, and trusted execution environments.

• Support the addition of terrestrial 5G, eSIM, and other advanced features into device hardware.

System Bring-up, Validation & Debug

• Oversee hardware bring-up, validation, and debugging of reference and custom platforms.

• Collaborate with software and firmware teams to ensure seamless hardware-software integration.

• Develop and execute test plans for performance, reliability, and regulatory compliance (FCC, CE, carrier certifications).

• Troubleshoot and resolve complex hardware issues using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and other lab equipment.

Cross-Functional Leadership

• Interface with internal business to collaborate on future product portfolio roadmap.

• Work closely with chipset vendors, contract manufacturers, and internal engineering teams.

• Provide technical guidance to partners and internal teams on hardware integration best practices.

• Mentor junior hardware engineers and contribute to technical roadmaps for future device platforms.

What you'll need

• 8 - 10+ years of HW and Mixed Signal design competence leveraging 5G chipsets into user equipment (UE) products.
• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or other related engineering discipline.
• Demonstrated experience taking designs from paper to product including defining requirements, analytical/simulation design, schematic & BOM creation, design validation and into Production.
• Understanding of Communications Theory and Wireless Communication and how they apply to the design of the UE.
• Previous background developing support documentation such as design guidelines, test plans, test procedures, design and integration guides, ect.
• Proficiency with design process including Specification Requirements Review (SRR), Preliminary Design Review (PDR), Critical Design Review (CDR), Implementation Complete Review (ICR) and Production Readiness Review (PRR).
• Exposure supporting Contract Manufacturers (CM), OEM's and/or ODM's.
• Understanding of regulatory requirements that impact the UE design and production.
• Problem-solving skills to isolate and resolve complex UE issues when operating within the network.
• Ability to provide technical support across multiple and simultaneous product developments and sustaining activities.
• Aptitude to provide contingency work arounds to preserve schedules.
• Previous experience providing cost and schedule estimates for both new proposals and sustaining activities.
• Sound communication and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated design discipline and rigor.
• Availability to support up to 20% travel (averaged over time).

What will help you on the job

• Master of Science in Engineering is preferred.
• Strong mechanical aptitude.
• Experience working with supply chain to provide technical input on supplier decisions such as make vs buy trade, etc.

Salary range

$155,500.00 - $246,000.00 / annually.
For specific work locations within San Jose, the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, the base pay range for this role is $193,500.00- $290,500.00/ annually

At Viasat, we consider many factors when it comes to compensation, including the scope of the position as well as your background and experience. Base pay may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Additional cash or stock incentives may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Learn more about Viasat's comprehensive benefit offerings that are focused on your holistic health and wellness at
EEO Statement

Viasat is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, seeking to create a welcoming and diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, genetics, age, or veteran status or any other applicable legally protected status or characteristic. If you would like to request an accommodation on the basis of disability for completing this on-line application, please click here.