Senior Software Engineer, Embedded UI - C++

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Software Engineer, Embedded UI - C++

Company: Roku

Location: Manchester, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Embedded Systems & UI Development

Date Posted: 2025-11-20T09:35:12

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal in developing and optimizing high-performance embedded UI systems, focusing on graphics rendering and core engine technology within Roku's streaming platform.

• Responsibilities include architecting complex middleware and UI solutions, integrating AI/ML capabilities, and ensuring seamless user experiences across millions of devices.

• The position demands advanced proficiency in BrightScript or JavaScript-like languages, along with Python, emphasizing deep technical problem-solving and performance optimization.

• As a Senior Software Engineer, you will contribute to global platform features, develop engineering tools, and mentor junior developers, driving innovation in the evolving streaming landscape.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title mentions C++, the description highlights BrightScript (or JavaScript-like) and Python as primary languages for this specific role within the DMTE team. The C++ aspect likely pertains to underlying framework components or broader Roku engineering practices, but direct application of C++ for UI rendering in this context is less emphasized in the provided description. Candidates should clarify the exact C++ involvement during the interview process.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize scalable UI features for embedded systems, ensuring performance for millions of users.

• Lead technical investigations and architect robust solutions for complex middleware and UI challenges within the FRAME engine.

• Integrate AI/ML capabilities and leverage generative AI tools to enhance development processes and accelerate feature delivery.

• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including firmware, UI, and product, to deliver integrated global platform features.

• Develop and maintain engineering tools that improve team productivity and streamline development workflows.

• Mentor junior software engineers, providing technical guidance and fostering a culture of continuous learning and skill development.

• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in AI trends and emerging technologies to inform platform innovation and strategy.

• Conduct root cause analysis for complex technical issues, identifying and implementing effective solutions to ensure system stability and performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities heavily lean into advanced software development, system architecture, and AI integration within an embedded UI context. The emphasis on "optimizing for millions of users" and "performance down to the last millisecond" indicates a critical role in ensuring the core user experience of Roku devices. The development of engineering tools and mentorship of junior developers signifies a senior-level contribution beyond individual coding tasks.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While specific degree requirements are not listed, advanced roles in software engineering typically benefit from a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related technical field.

Experience: 5+ years of professional software engineering experience, with a significant focus on UI development.

Required Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in BrightScript or JavaScript-like languages for UI and middleware development.

• Strong programming skills in Python for scripting, tool development, or backend integration.

• Demonstrated expertise in UI development, including understanding of rendering pipelines and user experience optimization.

• Proven ability in root cause analysis for complex technical issues.

• Excellent technical communication skills, capable of articulating complex concepts to diverse stakeholders.

• Knowledge of AI applications and practical experience with generative AI tools for development acceleration.

• A proactive mindset with a passion for continuous learning and adapting to fast-paced iteration cycles.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with C++ for embedded systems development, particularly in graphics or performance-critical areas.

• Familiarity with graphics rendering engines and optimization techniques.

• Experience with middleware development.

• Understanding of hardware-software interaction in embedded environments.

• Familiarity with performance profiling and debugging tools for embedded systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills emphasize scripting languages (BrightScript/JavaScript-like, Python) for UI and tool development, alongside AI integration. While C++ is in the job title, its explicit requirement is listed as preferred, suggesting that direct C++ coding might be less frequent for this specific UI-focused role compared to the scripting languages. Candidates strong in BrightScript/JavaScript and Python, with a good understanding of UI principles and AI, will be well-positioned.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate projects showcasing complex UI development and optimization for resource-constrained environments.

• Include examples of scripting language proficiency (BrightScript, JavaScript-like) and Python usage in practical applications.

• Present case studies of technical investigations and root cause analysis, highlighting problem-solving methodologies.

• Showcase contributions to system architecture or significant feature development within embedded systems or UI frameworks.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their approach to designing and implementing efficient UI workflows.

• Expect questions regarding their methods for debugging and optimizing performance in embedded systems.

• Be ready to explain how they document technical solutions and collaborate on process improvements with cross-functional teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior Software Engineer role, particularly in embedded UI, a portfolio demonstrating practical application of skills is crucial. This should highlight problem-solving, optimization, and collaboration. The emphasis on performance and scalability means projects showcasing efficiency improvements and handling large-scale user bases will be highly valued.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: For a Senior Software Engineer in Manchester, UK, with 5-10 years of experience, the typical salary range can vary significantly based on the company's compensation structure and specific responsibilities. Based on industry benchmarks for senior engineering roles in major tech companies in the UK, an estimated range could be between £70,000 to £100,000 per annum. This estimate considers the cost of living in Manchester, the demand for specialized embedded UI and AI skills, and the seniority of the role.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage (medical, dental, and vision).

• Global access to mental health and financial wellness support and resources.

• Generous vacation time and personal leave.

• Retirement savings options (e.g., pension contributions).

• Potential for statutory and voluntary benefits, which may include life, accident, and disability insurance.

• Commuter benefits may also be available.

Working Hours: The role is described as full-time, with an implied standard working week of approximately 40 hours. While specific flexibility is not detailed, typical tech company environments often offer some degree of flexibility around start and end times, provided core business hours and team collaboration needs are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on general market data for senior software engineering roles in the UK. Actual compensation will depend on Roku's specific compensation bands, the candidate's experience and interview performance, and local market conditions. The benefits package is comprehensive, reflecting Roku's commitment to employee well-being, with specific local benefits to be confirmed with the recruiter.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technology, specifically Streaming Media Platforms and Consumer Electronics. Roku is a leader in the connected TV market, driving innovation in how content is delivered and consumed globally.

Company Size: Roku is a large, publicly traded company with a significant global presence, suggesting a structured yet dynamic work environment. This size implies access to extensive resources and opportunities for impact across a broad user base.

Founded: 2002. Roku has a long history in pioneering streaming technology, indicating a culture that values innovation, long-term vision, and adaptability in a rapidly evolving industry.

Team Structure:

• The Device Monetization and Themed Experiences (DMTE) team is part of the larger Advertising organization, focusing on the high-performance graphics and UI foundations (FRAME engine).

• This team operates in a collaborative, high-trust environment, working closely with firmware, UI, and product teams.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on data-driven decisions and performance optimization, particularly in graphics rendering and memory usage.

• Agile development methodologies are likely employed, fostering rapid iteration and continuous improvement.

• Strong focus on solving complex technical challenges, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in embedded UI performance.

• Integration of modern development practices, including AI/ML and generative AI tools, to enhance efficiency and capabilities.

Company Website: https://www.weareroku.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Roku's culture is described as fast-paced, collaborative, and focused on high-achieving individuals who can deliver significant results. The DMTE team specifically works on the core visual experience of Roku devices, suggesting a culture that values precision, performance, and innovative problem-solving. The integration of AI/ML points to a forward-thinking approach to technology adoption.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior Software Engineer role, indicating a position of significant technical expertise and responsibility. It's a critical individual contributor role focused on deep technical problem-solving, architectural input, and mentorship.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Software Engineer will likely report to an Engineering Manager or Team Lead within the DMTE team. They will collaborate closely with peers, product managers, and engineers from other disciplines (firmware, application teams).

Operations Impact: The work directly impacts the user experience of tens of millions of Roku users worldwide. By optimizing the FRAME engine and UI rendering, this role influences device responsiveness, visual appeal, and the overall satisfaction of Roku platform users, which in turn supports advertising monetization and platform engagement.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in embedded UI, graphics rendering, performance optimization, and AI/ML applications within the streaming domain.

• Leadership Development: Progress into a Tech Lead role, guiding technical strategy for specific features or projects, or move towards management if inclined.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain broader experience by working on different aspects of the Roku platform or collaborating with other product areas.

• Mentorship: Continue to develop leadership skills by mentoring junior engineers and contributing to the team's knowledge base.

• Industry Influence: Contribute to cutting-edge technology in the rapidly growing streaming industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant growth potential for engineers passionate about embedded systems and user experience. The "Senior" title implies a clear path towards technical leadership, with opportunities to influence architecture and mentor others. The integration of AI/ML also presents a chance to develop skills in a highly sought-after field.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as "On-site," indicating a traditional office-based work environment. This suggests a physical workspace designed for collaboration and focused technical work.

Office Location(s): Manchester, United Kingdom. This location likely offers a dedicated Roku office space designed to support engineering teams.

Workspace Context:

• The environment is expected to be collaborative, with opportunities for in-person interaction with team members and cross-functional colleagues.

• Access to standard engineering tools and technology infrastructure will be provided to support development efforts.

• The setting will facilitate direct engagement with the DMTE team, fostering a strong sense of shared purpose and collective problem-solving.

Work Schedule: The standard working hours are approximately 40 per week, typical for a full-time engineering role. While on-site, there may be some flexibility in daily start and end times, but adherence to core business hours for team collaboration and meetings is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: Being an on-site role in Manchester, the work environment will likely emphasize in-person collaboration, team cohesion, and direct access to company resources. This is conducive to the deep technical problem-solving and teamwork described for the DMTE team.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will likely conduct an initial call to assess overall fit, experience, and interest.

• Technical Interviews: Expect multiple rounds of technical interviews focusing on:

  • Coding Challenges: Live coding sessions or take-home assignments testing proficiency in BrightScript/JavaScript-like languages, Python, and potentially C++. Problems will likely involve UI logic, algorithm design, and performance optimization.
  • System Design: Discussions around architecting scalable UI systems, handling performance constraints, and integrating new features like AI.
  • Problem-Solving & Root Cause Analysis: Scenarios requiring you to diagnose and solve complex technical issues, demonstrating your analytical approach.

• Behavioral/Cultural Fit: Interviews to assess teamwork, communication, problem-solving approach, and alignment with Roku's culture (e.g., ownership, innovation, collaboration).

• Hiring Manager/Team Lead Interview: A final discussion to delve deeper into your experience, career aspirations, and how you would contribute to the team.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Relevance: Showcase projects that directly align with embedded UI development, performance optimization, graphics rendering, and scripting languages (BrightScript/JavaScript-like, Python).

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your solution, the technologies used, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., performance improvements, user engagement metrics, efficiency gains).

• Showcase Problem-Solving: Include case studies of complex technical challenges you've faced and how you systematically approached their resolution.

• Demonstrate AI/ML Integration: If applicable, present projects where you've used AI/ML or generative AI tools to enhance development or product features.

• Prepare to Discuss: Be ready to walk through your portfolio, explaining your role, technical decisions, and lessons learned for each relevant project.

Challenge Preparation:

• Practice Coding: Focus on data structures, algorithms, and language-specific nuances of BrightScript/JavaScript and Python. Practice optimizing code for efficiency.

• System Design Scenarios: Think about how to design scalable, performant UI systems for embedded devices. Consider trade-offs, potential bottlenecks, and integration strategies.

• Behavioral Questions: Prepare examples using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to illustrate your experience with collaboration, problem-solving, leadership, and handling difficult situations.

• Research Roku: Understand Roku's platform, its market position, and its culture. Be prepared to discuss how your skills and experience align with the company's goals and the DMTE team's mission.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the senior nature of the role and the specific technical domain (embedded UI, performance, AI), expect a rigorous technical interview process. A strong portfolio that clearly demonstrates problem-solving capabilities, technical depth, and quantifiable results will be critical. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their thought process in detail.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Development Languages: BrightScript (or JavaScript-like), Python. C++ is a preferred skill, suggesting it might be used in underlying layers or specific components.

• Version Control: Git (standard for most software development).

• IDE/Editors: Likely industry-standard IDEs or text editors suited for scripting and C++ development (e.g., VS Code, CLion, or custom Roku development environments).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Internal performance monitoring and analytics tools for tracking UI responsiveness, frame rates, and resource utilization.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly customer-facing, understanding how UI performance impacts user engagement and potentially advertising metrics is key.

• Automation tools for build processes, testing, and deployment pipelines will likely be in use.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical stack revolves around BrightScript/JavaScript-like and Python for UI and application logic, with C++ as a valuable addition. Proficiency in these languages and an understanding of embedded system development tools are essential. The team likely utilizes internal, proprietary tools for performance analysis specific to Roku's hardware and software ecosystem.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation: A drive to push boundaries and find creative solutions for complex technical challenges in embedded UI.

• Performance Excellence: A deep commitment to optimizing code and systems for speed, efficiency, and responsiveness.

• Collaboration & Trust: Working effectively with diverse teams, valuing open communication and mutual respect.

• Ownership & Impact: Taking responsibility for features and their success, understanding the direct impact on millions of users.

• Continuous Learning: Staying current with technology trends, especially in AI and embedded systems, and actively seeking to develop new skills.

Collaboration Style:

• The team operates in a high-trust, collaborative environment. Expect active participation in code reviews, design discussions, and cross-functional meetings.

• Emphasis on clear communication, shared problem-solving, and constructive feedback exchange.

• Mentorship is a key aspect, with senior members actively supporting the growth of junior engineers.

📝 Enhancement Note: Roku's culture emphasizes high performance, ownership, and tackling ambitious challenges. For the DMTE team, this translates to a focus on delivering a flawless, high-performance user experience on Roku devices through deep technical collaboration and continuous innovation.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Performance Optimization: Continuously pushing the limits of embedded hardware to deliver a smooth, responsive UI experience under tight resource constraints.

• Scalability: Designing and implementing features that perform consistently across a vast range of Roku devices and software versions.

• AI/ML Integration: Effectively integrating and leveraging AI/ML technologies into the embedded UI stack, which can present unique technical hurdles.

• Cross-Functional Dependencies: Navigating complex dependencies with hardware, firmware, and application teams to ensure seamless integration of UI features.

• Keeping Pace with Innovation: Staying ahead of rapidly evolving technologies in streaming, AI, and graphics rendering.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deep Dive into Embedded Systems: Gain unparalleled experience in the intricacies of embedded UI development for consumer electronics.

• AI/ML Application: Develop practical skills in applying AI and generative AI tools within an embedded context, a highly in-demand area.

• Architectural Influence: Contribute to the design and evolution of Roku's core FRAME engine and UI framework.

• Mentorship Programs: Benefit from or contribute to formal and informal mentorship opportunities.

• Industry Exposure: Work on technology that powers a leading global streaming platform, offering insights into the broader media and tech landscape.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical of senior roles in performance-critical, embedded systems development. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering a chance to become a subject matter expert in a niche but critical area of the streaming industry, with a modern twist of AI integration.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to optimize a UI for performance on a resource-constrained device. What was your approach, and what were the results?" (Focus on methodology, tools used, and quantifiable outcomes).

• "How would you architect a new animated UI feature that needs to be highly responsive and integrate with AI-driven content recommendations?" (Assess system design thinking, scalability, and AI integration strategy).

• "Walk me through your process for debugging a complex UI rendering issue in an embedded environment." (Evaluate problem-solving skills, analytical approach, and debugging techniques).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Roku and the DMTE team specifically?" (Show genuine interest in the company's mission and the team's technical challenges).

• "Describe a situation where you had to collaborate closely with firmware or hardware engineers. What were the challenges, and how did you navigate them?" (Assess cross-functional collaboration skills).

• "How do you approach mentoring junior engineers?" (Evaluate leadership potential and team contribution).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Key Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best showcase your skills in embedded UI, performance optimization, scripting languages, and problem-solving.

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly define the problem, your specific role and contributions, the technical challenges, your solutions, and the measurable impact. Use diagrams or code snippets where appropriate.

• Highlight Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the technical decisions you made, the trade-offs considered, and why you chose specific approaches.

• Quantify Results: Emphasize any metrics or data that demonstrate the success of your work (e.g., frame rate improvements, latency reduction, memory savings).

• Practice Your Pitch: Rehearse your presentation to ensure it's concise, clear, and effectively communicates your value.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to demonstrate not only strong technical skills but also a deep understanding of performance optimization in embedded systems and an ability to articulate complex technical concepts clearly. The emphasis on AI integration means being ready to discuss its practical applications in this domain.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Software Engineer position:

• Submit your application through the Roku careers portal via the provided URL.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your experience with BrightScript/JavaScript-like languages, Python, UI development, performance optimization, and any AI/ML experience. Use keywords from the job description, such as "embedded UI," "graphics rendering," "middleware," and "problem-solving."

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a portfolio that showcases relevant projects. Ensure it includes clear descriptions of your contributions, technical challenges, solutions, and quantifiable results. Be ready to present this during interviews.

• Practice Interview Questions: Rehearse answers to common software engineering, system design, and behavioral questions, with a specific focus on embedded UI and performance optimization. Use the STAR method for behavioral responses.

• Research Roku and the DMTE Team: Understand Roku's mission, products, and the specific focus of the Device Monetization and Themed Experiences team. Identify how your skills and career aspirations align with their work.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.