C++ Software Engineer

C++ Audio Software Engineer (Plugins & Systems) Hybrid / Flexible Working (Cambridge based)

Overview

We're looking for a C++ JUCE Audio Software Engineer with 3 - 5+ years experience to help build robust, professional-grade audio software used for audio plugins.

In addition to audio plugins, you will gain exposure to system architecture, UI/UX, and hardware communication. collaborating closely with audio and embedded engineers to deliver reliable, low-latency tools that integrate seamlessly into modern DAW workflows.

This role offers flexible hybrid working, with a strong emphasis on trust, autonomy, and outcomes rather than rigid schedules.

What You'll Work On

• Cross-platform audio plugin development (VST3, AU, AAX, Standalone)
• Thoughtful parameter systems, state management, and undo/redo
• Real-world DAW host edge cases and workflow constraints
• Custom UI components, meters, visualisations, and interaction design
• Low-latency communication with external hardware over USB and network protocols
• Close collaboration with audio DSP and embedded systems engineers

Key Responsibilities

Audio Plugin & Systems Development

• Design and implement production-ready audio plugins using modern C++
• Build robust parameter routing, automation, preset, and state systems
• Implement reliable undo/redo and session persistence
• Debug and resolve host-specific issues across DAWs and operating systems
• Ensure performance, stability, and real-time safety

UI / UX Implementation

• Develop custom UI components with professional look and feel
• Implement industry-standard control behaviour (knobs, sliders, meters)
• Create visualisation tools such as meters, curves, and analyzers
• Collaborate on UX decisions for complex, professional workflows
• Iterate based on internal testing and user feedback

Hardware & Integration

• Implement device discovery and connection management
• Build real-time, bidirectional communication systems
• Debug cross-platform USB and network communication issues
• Optimise data transfer paths for low latency and reliability
• Collaborate on protocol design and integration

What We're Looking For

Experience

• 3–5+ years professional C++ development experience
• Hands-on experience with JUCE for audio plugin development
• Shipped or maintained real-world audio software (not just personal projects)

Technical Skills

• Strong modern C++ (clean architecture, SOLID principles)
• Deep understanding of audio plugin architectures and DAW integration
• Experience with real-time audio constraints (latency, threading, safety)
• Confident debugging and profiling across platforms
• Familiarity with DSP fundamentals (metering, filters, dynamics)
• Experience with parameter automation and state management
• Knowledge of USB and/or network-based communication
• Comfortable with multi-threading, async patterns, and IPC
• Git-based workflows and collaborative development

Nice to Have

• Experience with AAX or standalone audio applications
• Exposure to embedded systems or hardware-software integration
• Strong opinions on UX for professional audio tools

Why This Role

• Flexible hybrid working with autonomy and trust (the innovation center is based in Cambridge)
• 60k - 70k +
• Technically challenging, meaningful work used by professionals
• Small, highly skilled team with strong engineering culture
• Opportunity to shape systems, architecture, and user experience
• Focus on quality, maintainability, and long-term product health