Senior Software Engineer, 5G Physical Layer

Senior Software Engineer, 5G Physical Layer

Ready to make connectivity from space universally accessible, secure and actionable? Then youve come to the right place! E-Space is bridging Earth and space to enable hyper-scaled deployments of space-powered Internet of Things (IoT) solutions and services. We are fundamentally changing the design, economics, manufacturing, coverage limitations and service deliveryassociated with traditional satellite and terrestrial IoT systems. By building a highly-advanced low Earth orbit (LEO) space systemwith a unique antenna design, highly sustainable spacecraft system and low-cost, small portable end-user deviceswe can extend global satellite coverage, capacity and connectivity beyond legacy space services to provide a new kind of IoT platform that lets users sense, track, connect and act on information gathered, anywhere. Were intentional, were unapologetically curious and were 100% committed to saving space, protecting our planet and turning connectivity into actionable intelligence.
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 Duisburg, Germany.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 RequirementsThis is a fast-paced, high-impact environment - flexibility to occasionally work extended hours or weekends during critical periods is expected.At E-Space, you’ll work on cutting-edge PHY software that sits at the heart of next-generation wireless and satellite communication systems. We offer a collaborative environment, competitive compensation, and opportunities to make a real technical impact on global connectivity.
Why E-Space is right for you:
We want you to make the most of your journey at E-Space. Thats 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

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