Software Engineer - C++

Location: London, United Kingdom

Department: Spectacles

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 believing that the lens on the world shapes our reality. We're revolutionizing how people connect through Snapchat, Lens Studio, and Spectacles—our AR glasses that overlay digital magic on the physical world. The Spectacles team in London is at the forefront of hardware innovation, crafting next-generation AR eyewear that fuses cutting-edge cameras with computing power. Join us as a Software Engineer - C++ to push AR boundaries, enabling creators to build immersive experiences that blend the real and virtual seamlessly. In this role, you'll craft client-side solutions that weave together graphics, computer vision, machine learning, and developer tools for Spectacles. Working closely with global Snap teams, you'll design APIs that empower developers to create envelope-pushing AR content, while implementing robust software for our compute-constrained glasses. From optimizing real-time rendering to debugging intricate vision pipelines, you'll deliver high-quality code that brings AR to life, all while embracing Snap's creative, fast-paced culture. We're seeking a C++ expert passionate about AR innovation, capable of owning features end-to-end in a collaborative environment. With our 'Default Together' policy, expect to thrive in-office 4+ days a week, fostering dynamic teamwork. Snap champions diversity, offering equal opportunities and top-tier benefits to fuel your growth. If you're ready to redefine camera technology and spark joy through AR, apply now!

What You'll Do

• Develop client-side solutions integrating graphics, computer vision, machine learning, and developer tools for Spectacles AR glasses
• Create intuitive developer-facing APIs to enable groundbreaking AR experiences
• Integrate cutting-edge computer vision and ML technologies for real-time AR overlays
• Implement and maintain high-performance software in compute-constrained embedded environments
• Collaborate with global Snap hardware and software teams to align on product requirements
• Evaluate trade-offs, design solutions, and deliver innovative AR features
• Write clean, testable code and rigorously debug issues in AR camera systems
• Optimize software for low-latency performance on Spectacles hardware
• Contribute to developer tools that empower creators to build immersive AR content
• Participate in code reviews, testing, and deployment processes for Spectacles releases
• Stay ahead of AR trends to push the boundaries of camera-based computing

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a relevant technical field or equivalent practical experience
• Proficiency in programming C and C++ on Linux-based platforms
• Strong experience with debuggers, build systems, and version control systems (e.g., Git)
• Minimum 3+ years of software development experience
• Ability to independently execute on medium-sized features spanning a few weeks and multiple PRs
• Demonstrated ability to understand, debug, and improve existing codebases
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for cross-team collaboration

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience writing developer-facing APIs
• Hands-on experience with high-performance embedded systems
• Background in graphics programming, computer vision, or machine learning
• Prior work on AR/VR hardware or wearable devices
• Familiarity with compute-constrained environments like AR glasses

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Expertise in C++ programming
• Strong C programming proficiency
• Linux-based systems development
• API design and implementation
• Embedded systems optimization
• Graphics programming (e.g., OpenGL, Vulkan)
• Computer vision algorithms
• Machine learning integration
• Debugging complex codebases
• Build systems (e.g., CMake, Bazel)
• Git version control mastery
• Performance profiling and optimization
• Cross-functional collaboration
• Problem-solving in constrained environments
• Clear technical communication
• Agile development practices

Our Benefits

• Paid parental leave for new parents
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Emotional and mental health support programs
• Competitive compensation packages with equity in Snap's long-term success
• Flexible PTO and wellness stipends
• On-site perks including meals, fitness facilities, and social events
• Professional development opportunities and learning stipends
• 401(k) matching and financial planning resources

"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.