Software Engineer, Embedded, Level 5

Location: San Diego, Canada

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 that believes AR technology, powered by our Spectacles team, will redefine how people live, connect, and create in the real world. We're seeking a Software Engineer, Embedded, Level 5, to join our innovative Spectacles team in pushing the frontiers of standalone, see-through AR glasses with Snap OS. As part of this role, you'll craft embedded software that brings AR to life—enhancing camera-driven experiences, seamless audio integration, and low-power displays that make playing, learning, and working more immersive and fun. In our creative culture, you'll collaborate with AR wizards, hardware gurus, and Snapchat product teams to ship products that empower authentic self-expression and real-world connections. You'll lead the design, architecture, and implementation of embedded software across all system layers, from kernel primitives to high-performance camera and I/O systems, ensuring Spectacles deliver buttery-smooth AR innovations. Expect to dive deep into ARM-based systems, optimizing for power efficiency in wearables while triaging complex issues that arise in prototype and production phases. Through rigorous code and design reviews, you'll partner with peers to build reliable, scalable solutions that align with Snap's mission to make moments shareable and magical. Our 'Default Together' policy fosters dynamic collaboration in our offices 4+ days a week, accelerating our creative culture amid diverse voices from all backgrounds. With 7+ years in embedded development, proficiency in C/C++, and expertise in areas like Linux Embedded OS or graphics, you'll thrive here. Preferred experience in power optimizations or hardware schematics will set you apart. Snap is an equal opportunity employer offering competitive pay (Zone A: $209,000-$313,000 base + RSUs), comprehensive benefits, and a community that has your back—join us to innovate AR for the world!

What You'll Do

• Lead or participate in the design, architecture, and implementation of embedded software for prototype and shipping Spectacles AR glasses
• Develop software components across system layers including kernel, synchronization primitives, resource allocators, and memory management
• Implement performant and energy-efficient solutions for camera, audio, display, I/O systems, persistence, and security in Snap OS
• Collaborate on design reviews and code reviews with peers and stakeholders to ensure reliable, innovative AR experiences
• Triage, debug, track, and resolve complex product or system issues in real-time AR hardware
• Optimize embedded systems for low-power operation in always-on AR glasses
• Integrate hardware-software interfaces to push boundaries of see-through AR technology
• Contribute to AR innovations that enhance playing, learning, and working in the real world
• Document designs, track bugs, and manage source control in a fast-paced creative environment
• Work cross-functionally with hardware, AR, and Snapchat teams to deliver seamless user experiences

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent practical experience
• 7+ years of experience in embedded software development with ARM architecture
• Proficiency in programming with C or C++
• Experience in embedded systems areas such as BSP/Board Support Package, Operating Systems, or Linux Embedded OS
• Strong understanding of computer system architecture, microprocessors, and microcontrollers (caches, buses, memory controllers, DMA)
• Experience with camera, audio, graphics, or display systems in embedded environments
• Ability to triage, debug, and resolve product or system issues through root cause analysis

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in power/performance optimizations including Linux kernel, drivers, and user space applications
• Understanding of hardware design and ability to read schematics and component data sheets
• Background in developing energy-efficient solutions for AR wearables or consumer electronics

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Embedded C/C++ programming
• ARM architecture expertise
• Linux kernel and driver development
• BSP/Board Support Package implementation
• Camera and audio subsystem integration
• Graphics and display optimization
• Power and performance tuning
• Memory management and resource allocation
• Hardware schematic reading
• Debugging and triage in embedded systems
• Source control and bug tracking (e.g., Git, Jira)
• Design documentation and peer review processes
• Analytical problem-solving
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Cross-functional collaboration
• Real-time system development
• Energy-efficient embedded solutions
• AR hardware-software integration

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
• 401(k) matching and financial planning resources
• Onsite fitness centers and catered meals at Snap offices
• Professional development stipends and learning opportunities

Compensation

$209,000-$313,000 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.