Aechelon Technology

Staff Tools Engineer

Aechelon Technology · South San Francisco, CA
South San Francisco, CA $166K–$249K Posted 2026-10-21
Salary
$166K–$249K
Type
Full-time
Experience
8+ yr

Aechelon Technology, a Shield AI company, is a leading producer of 3D simulator content, including Geospecific visual/sensor databases and realistic 3D models. We seek people who share our passion for real-time computer graphics and commitment to our mission of helping make our Nation’s pilots safer. We will give you a chance to work with some of the most talented people in the graphics industry.

The Staff Tool Engineer's primary role is to support our art team by designing tools and automating processes for the content creation pipeline.

Responsibilities will include, but not be limited to the following:

  • Lead the design, development, testing, optimization, and maintenance of C++ tools
  • Design, write, and update Python tools and scripts to enhance and automate areas of our production pipeline
  • Collaborate and communicate effectively with artists, engineers, producers, and testers to build phenomenal pipelines and products

Minimum Qualifications:

  • BS in Engineering, Computer Science or similar technical field
  • 8+ years of experience in content creation software design, development and integration
  • Passion for real-time computer graphics and art pipelines
  • Expert knowledge and experience in C++ and Python
  • Experience programming 2D/3D content creation tools for film, game, or simulation pipelines
  • Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and debugging skills
  • Proven ability to take ownership of technical initiatives, make sound engineering decisions, and deliver solutions with minimal oversight
  • Ability to bridge the creative and technical aspects of computer graphics
  • BS in Engineering, Computer Science or similar technical field
  • Eligibility to work with export-controlled technology

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience in software development for CGI or game development
  • Experience with performance optimizations in real-time simulations or games
  • Development experience creating plug-ins and pipeline automation within Maya and Photoshop
  • Experience with user interface development and design using Qt and pyQt/pySide
  • Experience with Google Earth and GIS tools such as QGIS or ArcMap

Compensation and Benefits

$166,000- $249,000 per year

The above range is specific to CALIFORNIA and may not  be applicable  to other locations.  Final compensation is based on factors such as the candidate's skills, qualifications, and experience.

We offer  a very attractive  compensation package including competitive base salary, company performance-based profit sharing, 401k,  100% employer paid health benefits  (medical, dental, vision, life,  std, ltd , and life insurance plans).

No relocation reimbursement provided.

This position description is not intended to be a complete listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee holding this position. Duties, responsibilities and activities may be changed or others may be assigned at any time by the Company with notice to the employee.

Shield AI is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to providing access and opportunities to individuals with disabilities. If you are an applicant who is unable to fully utilize/access our application process because of a disability, Aechelon Technology will provide a reasonable accommodation. Please send an email to [email protected] to request that accommodation, and please be sure to include a detailed description of your requested accommodation, your name and preferred method of contact.

PythonC++
$110K — 10th pctl $270K — 90th pctl
This role’s midpoint $207K vs. market median $180K for Engineering roles
+15%
above median
Based on 10,000+ Engineering roles with disclosed salary ranges tracked on NewJob.
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