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, powered by innovative hardware like our fifth-generation Spectacles, will redefine how people live, connect, and create in the real world. We're the makers of Snapchat, the fastest way to share moments with friends, Lens Studio for AR creation, and Spectacles—standalone, see-through AR glasses running Snap OS that make playing, learning, and working together more immersive and fun. Our Spectacles team is at the forefront of embedded innovation, blending cutting-edge camera tech with lightweight AR to bring digital experiences into physical spaces. Join us as a Software Engineer, Embedded, Level 4, and help architect the future of wearable AR that empowers authentic self-expression and real-world connections. In this role, you'll lead the design, architecture, and implementation of embedded software for Spectacles prototypes and consumer products, tackling challenges across kernel, memory management, camera pipelines, audio processing, and energy-efficient AR rendering. You'll optimize systems for seamless performance in Snap OS, ensuring low-latency AR experiences that integrate with Snapchat's creative ecosystem. Collaborate in design and code reviews, triage complex issues with sharp debugging skills, and drive reliable solutions that push hardware boundaries while prioritizing user privacy and efficiency. We're seeking engineers passionate about camera-first innovation and AR who thrive in our creative, 'default together' culture—expect to be in-office 4+ days a week for dynamic collaboration. With a diverse team fueled by bold ideas, Snap offers equity, comprehensive benefits, and the chance to shape products used by millions daily. Base salary ranges from $133,000-$235,000 USD depending on zone (CA/WA/NYC: $157K-$235K; Zone B: $149K-$223K; Zone C: $133K-$200K), plus RSUs. Snap is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity.

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 performant solutions for camera, audio, security, I/O systems, persistence, and display in AR environments
• Optimize embedded systems for energy efficiency to support all-day AR experiences in Snap OS
• 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 real-time AR hardware
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate embedded software with Snapchat's camera-first AR innovations
• Contribute to pushing the boundaries of see-through AR glasses for playing, learning, and working together
• Document designs and processes to foster a creative, fast-paced engineering culture at Snap
• Drive innovation in embedded systems to enhance how people express themselves and connect in the real world via Spectacles

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 or Operating Systems
• Experience with Android/Linux Embedded OS
• Hands-on experience in Graphics, Camera, Audio, or Display systems
• Proven track record of writing performant and energy-efficient embedded solutions

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
• Security and I/O systems implementation
• Strong software debugging and triage
• Schematic reading and data sheet analysis
• Source control and bug tracking proficiency
• Design documentation and review processes
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Analytical problem-solving in complex systems
• Performance optimization for energy efficiency
• Cross-functional collaboration in AR/hardware 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 paid time off and wellness programs
• Onsite perks including meals, fitness facilities, and creative collaboration spaces
• Professional development opportunities in AR and camera technology
• 401(k) matching and financial planning resources

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.