Software Development Engineer - Video Encoding

RESPONSIBILITIES:
Kforce has a client in Redmond, WA that is seeking a Software Development Engineer - Video Encoding.

Improve Codec Telemetry:
* Expand telemetry depth and coverage for H.264, HEVC, AV1, and image/video codecs
* Capture fine grained profile information (e.g., 10 bit, 4:2:2, 4:4:4) and error modes not visible in current data
* Define reliability metrics, performance indicators, and failure signals across encode/decode paths
* Build or enhance dashboards to surface actionable health insights, trends, and regressions
* Improve detection of rare or profile specific issues that previously went unnoticed

Encoder HLK Improvements & MVHV/HLK Integration:
* Extend HLK encoder test suites beyond H.264 bitstream matching to cover HEVC and AV1
* Improve coverage of codec behaviors and functional validation in HLK for driver signing
* Integrate MVHV (Microsoft Video Hardware Validation) tests into HLK to reduce IHV test gaps and failures
* Partner closely with Teams, HLK teams, and IHVs to drive compliance with new codec feature requirements
* Help ensure future driver releases meet higher reliability and feature coverage standards

Key Project:
* Design and implement enhanced telemetry events, schemas, and probes across codec pipelines
* Expand telemetry granularity for advanced profiles and configuration variations
* Build/augment dashboards that reveal regression patterns, reliability issues, and performance characteristics
* Author and extend HLK tests for HEVC and AV1 encoder validation
* Integrate MVHV scenarios into HLK workflows to improve IHV pass rates and reduce partner friction
* Analyze telemetry and test fail data to identify codec reliability gaps
* Collaborate with codec engineering, HLK teams, and IHV partners to close coverage gaps and improve driver readiness

REQUIREMENTS:
* Telemetry & Observability (Strong): Designing event schemas, metrics, instrumentation, dashboards; analyzing large telemetry datasets
* Codec & Media Expertise: Understanding H.264/HEVC/AV1 encoding & decoding behavior, media pipelines, color formats, profile variations
* HLK/Hardware Validation Experience: Authoring HLK tests, working with driver certification workflows, understanding IHV validation pipelines
* Analytical Problem Solving: Identifying patterns in telemetry and validation results, isolating root causes, proposing instrumentation or test improvements
* Cross Team Collaboration: Working effectively with codec engineers, HLK teams, graphics/media groups, and hardware partners

The pay range is the lowest to highest compensation we reasonably in good faith believe we would pay at posting for this role. We may ultimately pay more or less than this range. Employee pay is based on factors like relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, location, performance, union contract and business needs. This range may be modified in the future.

We offer comprehensive benefits including medical/dental/vision insurance, HSA, FSA, 401(k), and life, disability & ADD insurance to eligible employees. Salaried personnel receive paid time off. Hourly employees are not eligible for paid time off unless required by law. Hourly employees on a Service Contract Act project are eligible for paid sick leave.

Note: Pay is not considered compensation until it is earned, vested and determinable. The amount and availability of any compensation remains in Kforce's sole discretion unless and until paid and may be modified in its discretion consistent with the law.

This job is not eligible for bonuses, incentives or commissions.

Kforce is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.

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