Strong background in systems-level and performance-critical software development
Experience designing scalable, high-performance software systems
Ability to decompose functional requirements into tasks effectively
Strong problem-solving skills with a focus on algorithmic solutions
Excellent communication skills to convey technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders
Responsibilities
Design and develop next-generation search systems and architectures in C++
Drive solutions for improving map search performance and data efficiency
Design and review software systems with modular components for scalability
Evaluate new technologies for search and embedded systems
Participate in project leadership and provide technical input to product direction
Mentor less experienced software engineers
Collaborate with teams to integrate map search capabilities across Garmin products
Benefits
Participation in Garmin's benefit program
Opportunities for professional development
Mentorship opportunities with experienced engineers
Engagement in innovative projects regarding outdoor navigation technology
Possibility to work in a hybrid environment across multiple office locations
Full Job Description
Overview
We are seeking a full-time Senior C++ Software Engineer - Map Navigation at Garmin's U.S. headquarters in the Greater Kansas City area OR in our Cary, NC office to help improve map search performance and capability across millions of embedded devices from wearables to cycling computers. In this role, you will work on core systems that enable map search to be highly efficient and exceptionally responsive at runtime across constrained environments. This is a system and innovation focused role centered on C++, performance engineering, and reliable quality. You will tackle challenges in next-generation search capability, memory optimization, and high-performance systems that directly influence real-world user experience in demanding outdoor conditions.
Your work will directly impact the responsiveness and usability of map search experiences across our ecosystem.
Essential Functions
Serve as a senior individual contributor in the design and development of next-generation search systems and high-performance runtime architectures in C++
Own and drive solutions that improve map search performance, data efficiency, and accuracy of results across embedded and resource-constrained devices
Design and review architecturally sound software systems using modular components to enable scalable platform evolution
Evaluate emerging technologies and methodologies as they apply to future-facing search and embedded system capabilities
Participate in project leadership and/or program planning including providing technical input to product direction, architecture, and innovation initiatives
Mentor and provide guidance to less experienced Software Engineers
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate map search capabilities across Garmin products and ensure solutions meet real-world usage scenarios in dynamic environments
May serve as a Lead Software Engineer for complex or cross-functional software development efforts
Provide technical direction and contribute to system-level tradeoffs involving performance, memory efficiency, scalability, and user experience
Basic Qualifications
Experience designing or working with search algorithms and large-scale structured datasets
Proficiency in C++ (C++14 or newer preferred)
Strong background in systems-level, embedded, or performance-critical software development
Demonstrated ability to decompose functional requirements into well-defined tasks while balancing quality, quantity and complexity in work output
Strong problem-solving skills, including the ability to research and apply appropriate algorithmic solutions
Proven experience designing scalable, high-performance software systems that solve complex technical challenges
Demonstrated ability serving as a lead software engineer for a complex software project
Demonstrated capability to offer peer technical assessments in areas of expertise, new technologies and software designs
Strong communication skills and the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Math or Physics or another relevant engineering/technical field AND a minimum of 5 years relevant experience OR an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience
Excellent academics (cumulative GPA greater than or equal to 3.0 as a general rule)
Desired Qualifications
Familiarity with data compression, tiling, indexing, or spatial data systems
Experience optimizing search performance or large-scale data access patterns in constrained or high-performance systems
Previous experience in embedded, wearable, fitness, automotive, or other resource-constrained environments
Superior academics (cumulative GPA greater than or equal to 3.5)
Proficiency writing software in C#, SQL or Python for tooling and automation
This position is eligible for Garmin's benefit program. Details can be found here: Garmin Benefits
About Garmin
Garmin Ltd. is an American multinational technology company founded in 1989 by Gary Burrell and Min Kao in Lenexa, Kansas. The company specializes in GPS technology for automotive, aviation, marine, outdoor, and sport activities. Garmin's products serve aviation, marine, automotive, wireless, outdoor recreation, and fitness markets. The company's goal is to create navigation and communication devices that can enrich customers' lives. Garmin has offices in the United States, Europe, and Asia. The company's products are sold in over 100 countries.
