Software Engineer, Embedded, Level 4

Location: Los Angeles, Canada | San Diego, Canada

Department: Engineering

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 AR technology will transform how people live, communicate, and connect in the real world. We're the creators of Snapchat, the world's fastest way to share moments, Lens Studio for AR creation, and Spectacles—our standalone, see-through AR glasses powered by Snap OS. The Spectacles team is at the forefront of AR innovation, developing fifth-generation hardware that makes playing, learning, and working together more immersive and fun. Join our creative engineering culture where bold ideas in camera tech and embedded systems drive human progress. As a Software Engineer, Embedded, Level 4, you'll craft the low-level software that powers Spectacles, enabling seamless AR experiences that blend digital creativity with the physical world. In this role, you'll lead the design, architecture, and implementation of embedded software for both prototypes and consumer products, working across kernel, memory management, camera pipelines, audio processing, and security systems optimized for AR performance. You'll debug complex issues in real-time environments, collaborate on code and design reviews, and ensure energy-efficient solutions that keep Spectacles lightweight and always-on. Partnering with hardware, AR, and product teams, you'll triage system problems and innovate on features like advanced computer vision and spatial audio, directly impacting how millions use Snapchat and Spectacles daily. We're seeking engineers passionate about AR and camera innovation who thrive in a fast-paced, 'Default Together' culture—expecting 4+ days in office for dynamic collaboration. With competitive pay (Zone A: $157,000-$235,000 base + RSUs), comprehensive benefits, and a commitment to diversity, Snap empowers you to express your technical creativity while building the future of wearable AR.

What You'll Do

• Lead or participate in the design, architecture, and implementation of embedded software for prototype and shipping consumer products like Spectacles AR glasses
• Design and implement software components across all system layers, including kernel, synchronization primitives, resource allocators, and memory management
• Develop high-performance solutions for camera, audio, I/O systems, persistence, and security tailored to AR experiences
• Optimize embedded systems for energy efficiency and real-time performance in see-through AR environments
• Participate in design reviews and code reviews with peers and stakeholders to ensure reliable, innovative solutions
• Triage, debug, track, and resolve product or system issues by analyzing root causes in camera and AR hardware
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate embedded software with Snap OS and Snapchat's AR ecosystem
• Contribute to pushing the boundaries of AR technology, enhancing how people play, learn, and connect in the real world
• Document designs and processes to support rapid iteration in a creative, fast-paced culture
• Prototype and test embedded features for fifth-generation Spectacles, focusing on seamless AR interactions

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in a relevant technical field such as computer science or electrical engineering or equivalent practical experience
• 3+ years of experience with embedded software development and ARM architecture
• Proficiency programming in C or C++
• Familiarity with computer system architecture, microprocessor, and microcontroller fundamentals (caches, buses, memory controllers, DMA, etc.)
• Strong analytical and software debugging skills
• Experience with software development processes including source control, bug tracking, and design documentation
• Ability to read schematics and component data sheets

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree in a relevant field such as computer science or electrical engineering
• Experience in BSP/Board Support Package development
• Experience with Operating Systems, Android/Linux Embedded OS
• Hands-on experience with Graphics, Camera, Audio, and Display systems
• Proven track record of writing performant and energy-efficient embedded solutions
• Prior work on AR hardware or wearable consumer devices

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Embedded software development in C/C++
• ARM architecture expertise
• Computer system architecture knowledge (caches, buses, DMA)
• Microprocessor and microcontroller fundamentals
• Kernel and low-level system programming
• Memory management and resource allocation
• Camera and audio subsystem development
• Real-time operating systems (RTOS, Android/Linux Embedded)
• Graphics and display optimization for AR
• Energy-efficient coding practices
• Debugging and triage of embedded systems
• Schematic reading and data sheet analysis
• Source control and bug tracking tools
• Design documentation and review processes
• Strong analytical problem-solving
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Cross-functional collaboration in agile teams

Our Benefits

• Paid parental leave
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Emotional and mental health support programs
• Competitive compensation packages with equity in the form of RSUs
• Flexible work arrangements supporting our 'Default Together' policy (4+ days in office)
• Opportunities to share in Snap’s long-term success through innovative AR projects
• Professional development and growth in a creative camera technology environment
• Inclusive culture with diverse backgrounds driving AR innovation

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.