Principal Software Engineer

Disney Entertainment & ESPN Technology is seeking a Principal Software Engineer to join their Media Engineering team, focusing on building and maintaining the software systems that power streaming media content across Disney's major brands including Disney+, Hulu, ESPN, and ABC. This role is central to defining the player architecture that delivers streaming experiences across multiple platforms.

The position requires an experienced engineer with deep expertise in C/C++ or Rust, particularly in video player and cross-platform development. You'll be responsible for leading the technical direction of a cross-platform C/C++ and Rust player that powers Disney+ and Hulu across gaming consoles and set-top boxes. The role combines hands-on development with technical leadership, requiring both strong coding skills and the ability to mentor other engineers.

As a Principal Engineer, you'll tackle complex technical challenges in video streaming, working with technologies like HLS, DRM, and adaptive bitrate streaming. You'll collaborate across teams to optimize playback experiences and ensure high-quality streaming for millions of users. The position offers the opportunity to work on large-scale systems that reach a global audience while contributing to the evolution of Disney's direct-to-consumer experience.

The role is based in major tech hubs including New York City, Seattle, or San Francisco, offering competitive compensation including base salary, bonuses, and comprehensive benefits. You'll be part of Disney's larger technology organization that's transforming how audiences experience entertainment worldwide. This is an excellent opportunity for a senior technologist who wants to impact how millions of people consume streaming content while working with cutting-edge video technologies.