Software Engineer C++, 3D Graphics, Level 4

Location: Los Angeles, Canada | Palo Alto, Canada

Department: Augmented Reality

Employment Type: Full time

About Snap Inc

Snap Inc is a technology company. We believe the camera presents the greatest opportunity to improve the way people live and communicate. Snap contributes to human progress by empowering people to express themselves, live in the moment, learn about the world, and have fun together.

About the Role

Snap Inc is a camera company that believes the camera represents the greatest opportunity to improve the way people live and communicate. We empower people to express themselves, live in the moment, learn about the world, and have fun together through our core products: Snapchat, a visual messaging app; Lens Studio, our AR creation platform; and Spectacles, our AR glasses. Our Augmented Reality team drives immersive, fun camera experiences at the heart of Snapchat, from innovative Lens features and Lens Studio evolution to cutting-edge computer vision and machine learning for transformative AR effects. Join us in Santa Monica as a Software Engineer C++, 3D Graphics, Level 4, to shape the future of AR rendering and bring AR to more people, places, and moments every day. As a 3D Rendering Engineer on the AR team, you’ll implement high-performance engine and rendering features powering Lenses, Games, Spectacles, Jumbotrons, Bitmoji, and beyond. You’ll collaborate with rendering and core engineers to integrate new algorithms into our Lens engine, harness modern mobile GPUs for advanced 3D algorithms, and research rendering effects optimized for peak mobile efficiency. Develop innovative materials and techniques for our 3D artists, optimize renderers with expert knowledge of GPUs and profilers, and pioneer AR rendering tech that fuels Snapchat’s creative culture. We seek engineers with strong C++ skills, 3D math prowess, and deep rendering pipeline experience. Thrive in our dynamic environment with excellent communication, task prioritization, and independent drive. Preferred expertise includes graphics APIs like Metal/Vulkan, shaders, mobile GPU optimization, PBR, and personal 3D projects. Snap’s “Default Together” policy emphasizes 4+ days in-office to accelerate our innovative culture. We’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity, and offer accommodations as needed.

What You'll Do

• Implement engine and rendering features used across Lenses, Games, Spectacles, Jumbotrons, Bitmoji, and other AR surfaces
• Collaborate with rendering and core engineers to incorporate new algorithms into the Lens engine
• Develop the 3D engine and advanced algorithms leveraging cutting-edge mobile GPU capabilities
• Research advanced rendering effects optimized for mobile GPUs to deliver efficient, high-quality visuals
• Create new rendering materials and techniques enabling 3D artists to achieve top-tier visuals on mobile devices
• Optimize the renderer for maximum performance using deep knowledge of rendering techniques, GPU hardware, and profilers
• Drive innovation in AR rendering technology to power immersive camera experiences on Snapchat
• Support the evolution of Lens Studio and Spectacles with state-of-the-art 3D graphics
• Prototype and integrate custom graphics algorithms to enhance AR creativity and real-time performance
• Contribute to the AR platform that brings fun, expressive experiences to millions of users daily

Minimum Qualifications

• BS in a technical field such as computer science or equivalent years of experience
• 2+ years of post-Bachelor’s software development experience
• Master’s degree in a technical field + 1+ year of post-grad software development experience, or PhD in a relevant technical field
• Industry C++ development experience
• Strong 3D math and trigonometry skills
• Strong computer science fundamentals
• Proven knowledge of software and hardware rendering pipeline (Mobile, Console or PC)

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with OpenGL, Metal, Vulkan, or DirectX APIs
• Experience with GLSL, MSL, HLSL, Compute shaders
• Experience in optimization for mobile/console GPUs
• Experience in creating rendering engines
• Experience with PBR
• Personal 3D rendering related projects

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• C++ coding expertise
• 3D math and trigonometry
• Computer science fundamentals
• Software and hardware rendering pipeline knowledge
• GPU optimization and profiling
• Mobile GPU capabilities
• Advanced rendering algorithms
• OpenGL, Metal, Vulkan, or DirectX (preferred)
• GLSL, MSL, HLSL, Compute shaders (preferred)
• PBR rendering techniques (preferred)
• Excellent verbal and written communication
• High attention to detail
• Ability to prioritize tasks
• Independent work ethic
• Collaboration with cross-functional teams

Our Benefits

• Paid parental leave
• Comprehensive medical coverage
• Emotional and mental health support programs
• Compensation packages with equity in the form of RSUs
• Competitive base salary based on pay zones (Zone A: $157,000-$235,000; Zone B: $149,000-$223,000; Zone C: $133,000-$200,000)
• "Default Together" policy fostering dynamic in-person collaboration 4+ days per week
• Opportunities to share in Snap’s long-term success
• Support for diverse backgrounds to innovate in AR and camera technology

Compensation

$157,000-$235,000 annually

This position is eligible for equity in the form of RSUs.

"Default Together" Policy: At Snap Inc, we practice a "default together" approach and expect team members to work in an office 4+ days per week.

Snap is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.