Principal Research Engineer, Video Compression

Ofinno • Reston, VA

11d

About The Position

As a Principal Research Engineer in the Advanced Media Lab, you will provide technical leadership in video compression with a focus on video coding standardization. You will define and drive high-impact technical directions from research framing to prototyping and rigorous evidence, translating innovations into standards-ready proposals and patentable inventions. This role is hands-on and implementation-oriented, partnering closely with internal stakeholders and external collaborators to deliver reproducible results and measurable impact.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or M.S. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field with 10+ years of relevant research and/or product experience in video compression.
• Prior delegate or active contributor experience in video coding standardization bodies, including JVET, MPEG, or AOM.
• Deep expertise in video compression with a proven record of technical leadership and sustained impact (e.g., standards contributions, patents, publications).
• Solid understanding of at least one modern video coding standard, including HEVC/H.265, VP9, VVC/H.266, AV1, AV2, or ECM.
• Proven ability to set technical direction, make sound architectural decisions, and drive execution through measurable outcomes.
• Strong video codec software implementation skills: excellent C/C++ development capability for codec research prototypes and/or production software.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to represent the company in standards meetings and industry events.
• Track record of technical impact through peer-reviewed publications, patents, and/or standards contributions.

Nice To Haves

• Hands-on experience in multiple video coding tool areas, including intra prediction, inter prediction, transform/quantization, in-loop filtering, and high-level syntax.
• Demonstrated leadership in high-level syntax and normative text contribution for video coding standards.
• Familiarity with the patent filing process and collaborating with patent attorneys.
• Leadership experience in video coding standardization bodies (e.g., JVET, MPEG, or AOM), including roles such as CE/EE/AHG/WG Chair, Editor, or Software Coordinator.

Responsibilities

• Conduct advanced research in video compression, with a focus on video coding standardization.
• Lead and coordinate technical initiatives across the team to remove blockers, manage tool interactions, and strengthen shared infrastructure (e.g., testing pipelines, scripts, datasets, and configurations).
• Communicate research findings and technical insights to clients, partners, and industry audiences, representing the company’s expertise in video compression.
• Drive standards contributions by authoring technical proposals, defending results, and working with delegates/partners to align test conditions, baselines, and conclusions.
• Invent and develop patentable solutions that improve compression efficiency and/or complexity, and support the full IP process- from invention disclosure through filing.
• Mentor and develop team capabilities through technical coaching, code reviews, and raising the bar on evaluation methodology and best practices.

Benefits

• 401(K) matching -- We help you plan and save for retirement with a 401(K) matching program that’s available on day one.
• Free healthcare plans -- Ofinno covers full premiums for you are your family on select healthcare plans, including employer HSA contributions if applicable.
• Free Food -- Our kitchen is always fully stocked, including lunch, protein bars, fruit, sodas, coffee, and tea.
• Unlimited Paid Time Off -- Our lives are enriched by family time, vacations, and personal time. We offer unlimited paid time off and sick leave.
• On-campus gym -- Unwind, reduce stress and feel great – even when you’re at work.
• Other benefits, too long to list -- Please discuss with our great People Ops team about additional benefits offered.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Principal
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees