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Senior RF PLL Silicon Validation Engineer (m/f/d)

Apple Munich, Bavaria, Germany

onsite
Posted Feb 6, 2026

Role & seniority: RF PLL Silicon Validation Engineer (experienced lead role)

Stack/tools: Python for test automation (NumPy/Pandas); RF lab equipment (Spectrum/Phase Noise Analyzers, VNAs, high-speed oscilloscopes); cross-functional collaboration with Design, Firmware, and System teams; automation workflows

Top 3 responsibilities

  1. Bring-up and characterization of frequency generation subsystems in transceivers (PLLs/DCOs)

  2. Validate RF performance against stringent specifications; drive root-cause analysis across hardware, firmware, and test setups

  3. Lead and coordinate cross-functional validation efforts; advance automation to enable robust connectivity in future products

  • Must-have skills: Strong cross-functional leadership and clear technical communication; expert Python test automation and data analysis experience; proven debugging of complex silicon issues; hands-on RF lab proficiency (Spectrum/Phase Noise Analyzers, VNAs, high-speed oscilloscopes)

  • Nice-to-haves: Deep RF transceiver/PLL/DCO knowledge; metrics such as Phase Noise, Lock Time, Cross-Talk Isolation; experience with 5G NR/LTE and mixed-signal blocks (ADCs/DACs); 5+ years RF/Mixed-Signal validation or design; advanced degree (MS/PhD)

  • Location & work type: Not specified; Apple employment context provided (on-site/Hybrid details not disclosed)

Full Description

Imagine what you could do here. At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion, dedication, and a no-excuse mindset to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Smart people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. Our team is responsible for validating the RF performance of top-notch, monolithic cellular transceivers. We are looking for an experienced RF engineer to lead the validation of complex PLL and frequency synthesis subsystems. In this role, you will work cross functionally with Design, Firmware, and System teams to ensure our silicon meets rigorous specifications. You will drive the adoption of modern automation workflows to enable un-compromised connectivity in future Apple products.

DESCRIPTION

As an RF PLL Silicon Validation Engineer, you will own the bring-up and characterization of frequency generation subsystems in market-leading transceivers. Your work style is collaborative and proactive, driving technical solutions across interdisciplinary teams.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Strong cross-functional leadership skills; ability to communicate complex technical findings clearly to Chip Design, Firmware, and System Verification teams. Expertise in Python for test automation and data analysis (NumPy/Pandas), with a strong focus on using AI-powered coding assistants to accelerate workflow and script generation. Proven track record in systematically debugging complex silicon issues and isolating root causes across hardware, firmware, or test setups. Hands-on mastery of RF lab equipment including Spectrum/Phase Noise Analyzers, VNAs, and high-speed Oscilloscopes.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Deep understanding of RF transceiver architecture with specific expertise in frequency synthesis (PLLs, DCOs) and key metrics like Phase Noise, Lock Time, and Cross-Talk Isolation. Experience with cellular standards (5G NR, LTE) and mixed-signal building blocks (ADCs/DACs) is highly desirable. Master’s or PhD in Electrical Engineering or equivalent with 5+ years of relevant experience in RF/Mixed-Signal validation or design. Apple is an Equal Opportunity Employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We take affirmative action to ensure equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. If you’d like more information about your EEO rights as an applicant. Apple will not discriminate or retaliate against applicants who inquire about, disclose, or discuss their compensation or that of other applicants. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

RF EngineeringPLLFrequency SynthesisTest AutomationData AnalysisPythonDebuggingRF Lab EquipmentSpectrum AnalyzersPhase Noise AnalyzersVNAsHigh-Speed OscilloscopesCellular StandardsMixed-Signal DesignCommunicationCross-Functional Leadershipmulti-location

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