System Test Engineer, 5G/6G Wireless Interoperability – Wireless Technologies and Ecosystems

Job Description

At Apple, we push the boundaries of what’s possible – and that starts with the engineers who test it. As a System Test Engineer on our Wireless Technologies team, you’ll play a pivotal role in ensuring Apple devices deliver seamless, world-class 5G and 6G connectivity across every network, every carrier, and every corner of the globe. If you thrive at the intersection of deep protocol knowledge and cutting-edge innovation, this is where your expertise will shape products used by hundreds of millions of people.DescriptionIn this role, you will be at the forefront of validating next-generation wireless connectivity on Apple products through rigorous interoperability testing across 5G and emerging 6G standards. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams spanning silicon, software, and RF engineering to design and execute system-level test strategies that span physical layer performance to end-to-end protocol behavior. Working with global carrier partners and industry standards, you’ll leverage AI/ML-driven tooling and scalable automation frameworks to uncover issues early and drive quality to the highest bar – all in pursuit of delivering the best possible wireless experience to Apple customers worldwide.Responsibilities:Design, develop, and execute system-level interoperability test plans for 5G NR (Sub-6 and FR2/mmWave) and emerging 6G technologies across commercial and lab network environmentsAnalyze 3GPP protocol stacks and physical layer behavior to identify failure modes and drive root cause analysis on complex wireless issuesBuild and maintain automated test frameworks and AI/ML-assisted diagnostic tools to accelerate test coverage and reduce manual effortPartner with carrier and chipset partners to define interoperability test scenarios and reproduce field-reported issues in a controlled lab settingCollaborate with hardware, software, and RF teams to validate new device features against evolving 3GPP specificationsTriage, document, and track defects with clear technical detail, working closely with engineering teams to drive issues to resolutionContribute to the development of internal test infrastructure, signal analysis pipelines, and reporting dashboardsStay current with 3GPP Release roadmaps and proactively identify testing gaps as standards evolvePreferred QualificationsExperience with 6G research concepts, IMT-2030 frameworks, or pre-standard wireless technologiesHands-on experience with carrier interoperability testing and field trial environmentsKnowledge of 5G core network architecture (5GC), network slicing, and SA/NSA deployment modesExperience with iOS or embedded platform debugging and log analysis toolsBackground in RF performance testing including beam management, MIMO, and FR2 mmWave characterizationFamiliarity with test management and CI/CD pipelines for continuous test integrationStrong cross-functional communication skills with the ability to present technical findings to diverse audiencesMinimum QualificationsMaster’s degree (MS) in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field3+ years of hands-on experience in wireless system testing, interoperability testing, or protocol validationDeep knowledge of 3GPP standards including 5G NR physical layer (FR1 and FR2/mmWave), RRC, NAS, and related protocolsProficiency in scripting and automation (Python, shell, or similar) for test development and result analysisExperience with AI/ML tools for test data analysis, anomaly detection, or tool developmentFamiliarity with lab test equipment such as network emulators, protocol analyzers, and signal analyzersPay & BenefitsAt 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 $171,600 and $302,200, 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 BenefitsNote: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.