Senior QA SDET (SF)

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.

As a member of the Quality Assurance team, the Senior QA SDET will help ensure the quality and reliability of Aechelon's simulation software, tools, and 3D visual database products through system-level testing, automation development, and validation of complex feature sets. In addition, they will participate in the design and implementation of automated test frameworks, test utilities, and validation strategies that improve test coverage, efficiency, and product quality. They will also use existing and future AI-assisted tools to enhance testing processes, generate automated test cases, and support quality initiatives across multiple product teams

Expectation, but not limited to

• Leads validation for complex systems spanning multiple components and teams, defining test strategy that covers functional, regression, performance, and reliability risks. Prevents high-impact regressions through proactive planning and deep technical triage.
• Creates robust automation and test utilities that materially improve signal quality (reduced flakiness, faster triage, better coverage). Serves as a subject-matter expert who elevates team execution and release confidence.
• Utilizes AI to create automated test cases, improve current process and level up test quality.

Responsibilities will include, but not be limited to

• Owns large feature areas or subsystems spanning multiple components, including complex interactions across runtime, tools, data, and rendering. Leads cross-team testing efforts and coordinates quality activities for major deliveries.
• Defines validation strategy for complex changes, including automation approach, performance considerations, and fidelity checks. Acts as a technical point of contact for quality risk and testability discussions.
• Own large feature areas or subsystems that span multiple components across Aechelon products, including complex interactions involving runtime, tools, data, and rendering.
• Leads validation for complex systems spanning multiple components or subsystems, coordinating quality activities across ownership boundaries.
• Define and drive validation strategies for complex or high-risk changes, including test scope, automation approach, performance considerations, and fidelity or correctness checks.
• Serve as the primary technical point of contact for quality risk assessment, testability discussions, and release readiness for owned areas.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior QA engineers, reviewing test plans, test cases, and automation contributions to ensure consistency, coverage, and effectiveness.
• Identify gaps in coverage, tooling, or process, and influence improvements that scale quality across teams and releases.
• Focus on Tool Development & AI:
• Define and drive validation strategies for complex or high-risk changes, with a strong emphasis on Python-based tool development, including test frameworks, utilities, and data-driven validation.
• Design, implement, and maintain tool and testing technology in Python that replace or significantly reduce manual testing for QA owned areas.
• Utilize AI assisted tools to improve/enhance the automation and day-to-day works.

Minimum Qualifications

• BA/BS in Computer Science or equivalent work experience
• Some experience with software testing or quality engineering
• Solid understanding of software development lifecycles
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Eligibility to work with export-controlled technology
• Practical experience applying AI tools in QA tasks

Bonus Points

• Experience testing 3D graphics or simulation software
• Python, C++, or automation scripting experience
• Experience with CI systems (Jenkins or similar)
• Experience with Jira, Perforce, Git, or similar tools
• Experience writing technical documentation
• Practical experience applying AI tools to QA tasks

Compensation and Benefits

$120,000 - $156,000 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 dl-aechelon_hr-team@shield.ai to request that accommodation, and please be sure to include a detailed description of your requested accommodation, your name and preferred method of contact.