Software Development Engineer II, Disney+ Hotstar

Key Skills

Aartificial intelligence, Algorithms, C++, Dash framework, Data pipelines, Java Programming, Machine learning techniques, Video processing/compression

Job Description

A Software Development Engineer II will drive the development of Disney+Hotstar's video encoding systems. Optimize existing software for efficiency and scalability, implement AI/ML algorithms for intelligent encoding and quality control, and contribute to the delivery of cutting-edge media features. Collaborate with other engineers to ensure a seamless user experience.

ABOUT THE TEAM: The Platform team is the one-stop shop for seamless content delivery – from ingesting global entertainment to ensuring smooth playback on any screen. Create the core technology behind live events, video processing, data pipelines, and ad delivery, using cutting-edge tools to keep your favorite content flowing.

Video team works to define the end-user experiences while playing back video, which includes marquee features like 4K, HDR, Atmos and accessibility features to help diverse groups enjoy our content. They dive deep into video encoding algorithms and build the pipeline responsible for the entire transformation system.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Refine and improve existing video/image encoding software within the Hotstar pipeline. Drive efficiency gains, enhance reliability, and ensure scalability for increasing content volume
• Apply AI/ML techniques to intelligently optimize encoding and develop automated quality control tools focused on source content and final streams
• Collaborate with product teams to execute the technical implementation of new media features, ensuring they align with the overall platform architecture
• Investigate upcoming video technologies and assess their potential benefits for Hotstar. Prepare proof-of-concepts or demos as needed
• Contribute to maintaining quality assurance systems. Help troubleshoot issues and suggest improvements to existing processes
• Provide guidance to junior engineers on best practices and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams for successful project delivery

SKILLS & ATTRIBUTES FOR SUCCESS

• Expert in C++ or Java and object-oriented programming
• Solid understanding of audio and video compression and processing, including video codec standards such as H.264/AVC, HEVC and AV1, audio codecs such as AAC, HE-AAC, EAC-3 and Dolby Atmos
• Strong background in image and signal processing, both algorithm design and implementation (for example, image scaling, deinterlacing, frame rate conversion, artifact detection).
• Experience in large-scale distributed systems and cloud-computing
• Experience in open-source multimedia projects (such as ffmpeg, x264, avisynth, webm)
• Experience in Machine Learning applied to video processingExperience in media packaging formats such as HLS, DASH along with encryption
• Understanding of CDN architectures and delivery mechanisms

ABOUT US:

Disney Star is a leading media & entertainment company in India that reaches over 700 million viewers a month in nine different languages. Our entertainment portfolio which cuts across general entertainment, movies, sports, infotainment, kids, and lifestyle content generates over 20,000 hours of original content every year. Disney+ Hotstar, India’s leading streaming platform, enables us to reach and entertain audiences anywhere, anytime. Disney+ Hotstar has changed the way Indians consume their entertainment - from their favourite TV shows and movies to sporting extravaganzas.