Software Engineer, Tools Application Framework (Core)

Our Software R&D department (Tools) is responsible for developing Pixar’s in-house and open-source software. We work very closely with both artists and engineers to build innovative filmmaking tools that enable our film production and continuously extend artistic reach.

One of our flagship tools is Presto, Pixar’s Academy Award-winning, in-house digital content creation application that is used to make all of our films. We are looking for a Software Engineer to join the team that develops and maintains the framework that Presto and its user interface are built upon.

As a Software Engineer on the Application Framework team, you will work on developing and improving the software framework that underpins many of our custom, in-house, film-making applications like Presto. You will be part of a multi-functional team of developers and UI/UX designers, and help craft and implement robust, easy-to-maintain code.

Do you love building highly technical user interfaces? Are you enthusiastic about extensible software architecture and API design? Are you excited to collaborate with designers and artists to bring cutting-edge filmmaking tools to life? If so, we would love to have you on our team!

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Contribute to world-class 3D graphics software applications and frameworks that enable and support Pixar’s film production
• Collaborate with a team of engineers, designers, technical artists, QA, build support and project management
• Bring technical user interfaces to life with the help of specifications and human interface guidelines created in collaboration with our designers
• Turn common user interface and workflow patterns into reusable software frameworks, and help ensure a consistent experience for our artists and technical users
• Join forces with valued external partners, and help improve applications deployed with our open-source USD distribution

QUALIFICATIONS:

• A strong understanding of C++ that you are continually expanding upon; experience with modern C++ and the STL
• Experience with Python and exposure to bridging C++ data types and functions to Python
• Familiarity with Qt or a comparable software framework for creating graphical user interfaces
• A passion for crafting high-quality code with attention to detail, readability and performance in mind
• A high bar when it comes to engineering methodologies, like writing maintainable code, providing good documentation and embracing automated testing
• Experience building software holistically: From planning and proposal to implementation, testing, optimization and deployment
• Collaborative spirit, in an environment where you exchange knowledge with accomplished peers, and draw inspiration from amazing artists and designers
• The ability to listen well and communicate clearly and succinctly
• Experience working with UI/UX designers and familiarity with UX best practices is a plus
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, or equivalent professional experience or education

The hiring range for this position in Emeryville is $158,185.00 to $204,710.00 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors.

Pixar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We know our storytelling is at its best when we include, celebrate and embrace difference. We strive to be a diverse workforce that is representative of our audiences, and where all can thrive and belong. We are committed to building a team that includes and respects a variety of voices, identities, backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Pixar participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. | Follow us on X @PixarRecruiting.