Senior Software Engineer - 5G Devices

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

The Viasat Access Edge Terminal Software team is responsible for the design, development, delivery and support of software running on embedded satellite terminal products (Ka-band, L-band, 5G) that are used in aviation, maritime, residential and other sectors.

 

We are seeking an 5G Devices Senior Software Engineer to design and develop modular software platforms for user equipment (UE) and customer premises equipment (CPE)

This role focuses on device-side software architecture, integrating industry-leading 5G chipsets with custom satellite and networking capabilities to create hybrid connectivity solutions for various markets including automotive, aviation, and maritime. 

 

Note - This position focuses on device/UE software architecture and is distinct from RAN (gNodeB/base station) or 5G Core network roles

Candidates should have device-side, client-side, or CPE development experience rather than network infrastructure expertise. 

The day-to-day

Modular Software Architecture & Design 

• Design and implement modular software architectures with reusable building blocks, for devices that operate on NTN with Viasat's satellites 

• Develop software abstraction layers (HAL) and middleware that decouple application logic from modem hardware implementations 

• Create flexible, configurable software frameworks that support multiple device variants (many devices could have capabilities in addition to 5G, based on the target market), form factors, and deployment scenarios 

• Define clear interfaces and APIs between software modules to enable independent development, testing, and evolution of components 

• Balance architectural flexibility with performance requirements in resource-constrained embedded environments 

 

5G Chipset Integration & Device Driver Development 

• Integrate 5G modem solutions from industry-leading vendors (Qualcomm, MediaTek, Intel) into device platforms and develop reference designs   

• Develop and maintain device drivers within the Linux kernel that support modem interfaces used in 5G technology (PCIe, USB, SDIO, UART)     

• Implement low-level software to control modem initialization, configuration, power management, and runtime behavior 

• Work with vendor Board Support Packages (BSP) and customize them for Viasat's specific hardware and use case requirements 

• Resolve challenging hardware-software integration faults 

• Optimize performance for latency, throughput, power consumption, and system stability 

 

Reference Design Development 

• Design and maintain reference software architectures that serve as templates for partner-developed devices 

• Create comprehensive SDK packages including libraries, sample code, documentation, and build tools for OEM/ODM partners 

• Develop "golden reference" implementations demonstrating guidelines for building 5G NTN enabled devices compatible with Viasat’s network 

• Provide technical guidance and support to external device manufacturers using reference designs 

• Ensure reference architectures are well-documented, maintainable, and follow industry standards (3GPP, GSMA) 

• Balance reference design completeness with flexibility to accommodate diverse partner and market requirements 

 

System Integration & Validation 

• Collaborate with hardware engineering teams to define device architecture and hardware-software interfaces