Software Engineer, C++

Location: Zurich, United States

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 at heart, pioneering the future of how people connect through augmented reality. Our Spectacles team is revolutionizing standalone AR glasses with SnapOS, blending seamless see-through displays with Snapchat's creative camera magic to make playing, learning, and working together more immersive and fun. We're seeking a Software Engineer, C++ to join this innovative group, where you'll craft high-performance components that power AR experiences directly in the real world, enhancing relationships and sparking creativity through cutting-edge camera and AR tech. In this role, you'll design reusable C++ frameworks and SDKs for Spectacles, drive SnapOS development for resource-constrained hardware, and optimize 3D graphics for buttery-smooth AR interactions. You'll collaborate closely with designers, interactive engineers, and product leads to launch features that leverage Snap's Lens Studio ecosystem, turning everyday moments into shareable, augmented adventures. From prototyping camera-driven AR effects to ensuring scalability across our fifth-gen glasses, your work will push the boundaries of wearable tech. Snap's creative culture thrives on diverse voices and bold ideas, fostering an environment where innovation meets fun. With 10+ years of experience and deep C++ expertise, you'll thrive in our 'default together' model, collaborating in-office 4+ days a week to build products that redefine human connection. Join us to contribute to Snap's mission of empowering expression through AR, with comprehensive benefits and a commitment to equality for all.

What You'll Do

• Design, improve, and support reusable C++ components, interactions, frameworks, and SDKs for immersive AR experiences on Spectacles
• Drive the technical direction and develop core components of SnapOS, the operating system powering fifth-generation Spectacles
• Optimize software for resource-constrained AR glasses to enable seamless camera-based interactions and real-world augmentation
• Implement high-performance 3D graphics pipelines tailored to see-through AR displays
• Collaborate with AR designers and product teams to shape innovative features that enhance play, learning, and collaboration
• Conduct thorough code and design reviews to maintain top-tier code quality and innovation standards
• Build and integrate camera-first technologies that push the boundaries of AR storytelling and social connection
• Develop scalable AR frameworks supporting Lens Studio integrations for Spectacles
• Prototype and iterate on new AR interactions using Snap's creative camera ecosystem
• Ensure robust testing and deployment of Spectacles software to deliver reliable, fun user experiences

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, related field, or equivalent practical experience
• 10+ years of software development experience
• Expertise in C++ programming
• Experience delivering high-quality, performant, and scalable code with extensive unit and functional testing
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with high attention to detail
• Ability to collaborate with design, interactive engineering, and product teams
• Experience participating in code and design reviews

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience building and shipping high-performance code for resource-constrained devices
• Familiarity with operating systems development
• Hands-on experience with 3D graphics and real-time rendering
• Practice designing SDKs, APIs, and platforms
• Background in augmented reality or wearable technology

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• C++ expertise (modern standards like C++17/20)
• High-performance, low-latency software development
• Unit and functional testing frameworks (e.g., Google Test)
• Operating systems internals and kernel-level programming
• 3D graphics programming (OpenGL, Vulkan, or Metal)
• Resource-constrained embedded systems optimization
• AR/VR rendering pipelines and spatial computing
• SDK and API design principles
• Cross-functional collaboration and communication
• Code review and refactoring best practices
• Real-time systems and sensor fusion
• Camera pipeline integration and computer vision basics
• Agile development methodologies
• Problem-solving in innovative, fast-paced environments
• Attention to detail in UI/UX for wearable AR

Our Benefits

• Paid parental leave
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Emotional and mental health support programs
• Competitive compensation packages with equity to share in Snap’s long-term success
• Flexible paid time off and wellness stipends
• Onsite perks including meals, fitness facilities, and creative collaboration spaces
• Professional development opportunities in AR and camera innovation
• Inclusive culture with employee resource groups and diversity initiatives

"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.