Jordan O'BrienIt looks like Nest is getting into the audio business, and even though we have no idea what the Google company plans to make, we can be sure that Sonos is a little nervous.
It’s an odd transition from smart thermostats and smoke detectors to audio products, but Nest is now hiring a “a highly technical head of audio to lead the development of Nest Audio across hardware and software, present and future”.
The job posting (tipped by TechCrunch) looks like this:
The work:
• Lead the Nest Audio team, including acoustics, audio electronics, audio SW, audio test and validation for all Nest products
• Build a world class audio team through hiring and mentoring
• Develop an audio roadmap for Nest products, including HW and SW, that can support delightful user experiences and innovative features
Minimum qualifications:
• BS/MS in engineering or related technical field, or equivalent practical experience
• 10+ years of experience in audio development, including hardware and software
• 2-4 years of experience in direct personnel management
Preferred qualifications:
• Deep technical knowledge into complex audio systems and audio development in both hardware and software
• Extraordinary leadership talent, with a proven ability to grow and lead high performing teams
• Proven technical leadership, with the ability to chart appropriate course in complex situations
• A desire to redefine consumer audio experiences with innovative solutions to challenging problems
• Proven experience building complex, high volume, high quality products
Meanwhile, Nest also is hiring an acoustics design engineer, preferably with a PhD and the ability to build an anechoic chamber.
The engineer should have 7+ years experience in the “design, prototyping and development of consumer audio systems”.
The jobs are located in Palo Alto, California.
We imagine that, instead of a siren blaring (and blaring and blaring and blaring …) when smoke is detected, your smart home could pipe Burning Down the House through the new Nest speakers.