Description
As a PHY Algorithm Engineer, you will contribute directly to the modeling, simulation, and performance optimization of advanced physical layer (PHY) and modem algorithms for Cisco's flagship Silicon One ASICs.
Working alongside senior algorithm architects and silicon designers, you will translate theoretical communication concepts into high-fidelity MATLAB simulation models, analyze signal processing tradeoffs, and help validate algorithm performance on real silicon in the lab.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design, simulate, and analyze digital signal processing (DSP) and modem algorithms for high-speed SerDes physical layer architectures.
- Develop and maintain comprehensive MATLAB and Simulink models to evaluate bit error rates (BER), equalization tradeoffs (CTLE, FFE, DFE), and noise performance.
- Characterize and tune algorithm configuration parameters to enhance receiver sensitivity, link robustness, and hardware implementation feasibility.
- Collaborate closely with digital ASIC design, firmware, and systems engineering teams to ensure accurate fixed-point translation and RTL implementation of algorithm models.
- Participate in hands-on silicon bring-up, lab measurements, and data collection to correlate simulation predictions with real-world silicon behavior.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
- 2+ years of hands-on experience in PHY algorithm development or related high-speed communication systems, with a broad system-level orientation and perspective.
- Hands-on MATLAB experience for algorithm development, simulation, and testing.
- Solid theoretical foundation in digital signal processing (e.g., adaptive filtering, equalization, clock and data recovery, modulation).
- Practical understanding of communication systems and receiver/transmitter modem architectures.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with high-speed SerDes systems, wireline communications, or high-speed optical/electrical PHY architectures.
- Hands-on experience with lab test equipment (high-bandwidth oscilloscopes, BERTs, spectrum analyzers) for silicon characterization and signal integrity validation.
- Familiarity with fixed-point modeling, C/C++, or Python scripting for simulation flow automation.
- Background in algorithm tuning, parameter optimization, or link-budget analysis.
- Strong analytical mindset, proactive problem-solving skills, and a collaborative team orientation.