3D Software Engineer II – Scene Layers

As a 3D Software Engineer II at Esri, your main responsibilities include building C++ software components that adhere to industry standards, working closely with product engineers to define requirements, and creating application architectures that align with product goals. You will also design stable software with automated test validations, develop reusable components and libraries for internal and open-source use, and participate in Agile processes for fast-paced delivery. Additionally, you will face complex challenges that push the boundaries of 3D content creation, contributing to exemplary user experiences.

To apply for the 3D Software Engineer II role at Esri, you need a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, GIS, or a related field, paired with at least 2 years of experience working with 3D graphics APIs like OpenGL, DirectX, or WebGL. Proficiency in C++ and a solid understanding of algorithms, data structures, and design patterns are essential. Familiarity with Agile development methodologies and knowledge of linear algebra and computational geometry will also enhance your suitability for the role.

The primary programming language required for the 3D Software Engineer II role at Esri is C++. You should be familiar with C++ Standard Template Library (STL), C++11 features, and potentially the Boost libraries. A strong knowledge of scenario-specific programming concepts, particularly those around 3D graphics APIs, is crucial, as your work will involve the design and implementation of complex data structures and algorithms to enhance our geospatial mapping and data analysis platform.

Esri is committed to professional growth, offering a variety of opportunities for 3D Software Engineers. This includes competitive total rewards, including a comprehensive benefits package that covers medical, dental, and vision. Employees are encouraged to engage in continuous learning, participate in workshops, and attend conferences that are aligned with their professional goals. The collaborative environment fosters innovation, and every employee is supported in contributing to their best work, ultimately enhancing their career development.

As a 3D Software Engineer II at Esri, you can expect to work on groundbreaking innovations in the geospatial tech space. This may include developing advanced algorithms for mesh and massive model processing, creating efficient texture compression techniques, and optimizing real-time rendering processes. You will also contribute to expanding the capabilities of our mapping technologies, focusing on the user experience and how spatial data structures can enhance the 3D content you will be working on. Your role will be pivotal in shaping the future of our platform for millions of users worldwide.

When answering this question, highlight specific projects where you utilized OpenGL, DirectX, or WebGL. Describe the complexity of the tasks you undertook, the challenges faced during development, and how you applied your knowledge of graphics APIs to enhance visual output. Mention any relevant tools or technologies you’ve used in conjunction with these APIs.

Focus on discussing specific design patterns that you have applied, such as Singleton, Factory, or Observer patterns. Provide examples from your experience where these patterns helped solve problems or improved code maintainability. Relate your explanation back to how they can be beneficial in the context of 3D software development.

Explain your philosophy regarding test-driven development (TDD) and automated testing. Provide specific examples of testing frameworks you’ve utilized (e.g., Google Test for C++). Discuss your strategy for converting requirements into test cases and how you ensure stable code releases.

Select a specific challenge related to 3D rendering you faced, such as optimization issues or rendering artifacts. Walk the interviewer through your thought process for diagnosing the issue, the steps you took to implement a solution, and the successful outcome. Highlight how achieving this solution improved the overall user experience.

Demonstrate your knowledge of mesh processing techniques by discussing aspects like mesh simplification, level of detail generation, and texture optimization. Provide real-world scenarios that illustrate how you've used these techniques in previous projects to enhance performance while preserving visual fidelity.

Share your strategies for achieving high code quality, such as following coding standards, conducting code reviews, and utilizing static analysis tools. Emphasize the importance of documentation and how you maintain code that others can easily understand and build upon.

Discuss your familiarity with Agile principles, including how you participate in sprints, daily stand-ups, and retrospectives. Share examples of how these practices facilitated better collaboration and faster delivery in your past teams, particularly in relation to software development for 3D applications.

Detail how you engage with product engineers from initial discussions to final implementation. Highlight the significance of clear communication and gathering comprehensive requirements. Discuss how you balance user needs with technical feasibility to create effective application architectures.

Express your dedication to continuous learning through resources like technology blogs, forums, webinars, and conferences. Mention any specific publications or communities you follow for 3D graphics innovations and how this knowledge influences your work.

Craft a compelling narrative based on Esri's mission towards creating positive global change with GIS technology. Discuss your enthusiasm for the role, your unique contributions, and how you plan to grow within this vibrant environment, ultimately aligning your personal goals with the company's vision.