---
title: 'Data Annotator / Geospatial Annotation Specialist at Aechelon Technology'
canonical: 'https://feeny.ai/job/data-annotator-geospatial-annotation-specialist-aechelon-technology-south-san-z5dnkhy6ptfs'
type: 'job'
last_seen: '2026-09-07'
---

# Data Annotator / Geospatial Annotation Specialist at Aechelon Technology

- **Company:** Aechelon Technology
- **Location:** South San Francisco, CA
- **Posted:** 2026-01-20
- **Last confirmed live:** 2026-09-07
- **Apply:** https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/aechelontechnology/jobs/5078955008

## Job description

Aechelon Technology, Inc. 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 Data Annotator / Geospatial Annotation Specialist plays a critical role in the creation of high-quality training datasets used to develop and refine Aechelon’s machine learning and computer vision models. This role supports both the Advanced Model Development Group and the Applied Real-Time Vision Group, ensuring datasets for object detection, segmentation, and classification are accurate, consistent, and production-ready.

The Specialist performs detailed vector annotation, image segmentation, and dataset preparation while adhering to strict quality standards. Because model performance is highly dependent on high-quality annotation, this role requires exceptional attention to detail and a strong understanding of geospatial imagery.

In addition to dataset creation, the Specialist will learn core machine learning concepts and gain experience operating inference tools and models within the DAML pipeline, becoming a direct contributor to model evaluation and workflow improvements.

## Key Responsibilities

- Create precise vector annotations and segmentation masks for training computer vision and object detection models.
- Perform detailed image segmentation, manually labeling features across large and varied imagery datasets.
- Follow established annotation guidelines and maintain consistency across global AOIs.
- Validate and refine automated detection outputs; correct errors or incomplete detections.
- Work with ML team to understand annotation needs, edge cases, and quality thresholds.
- Learn how to operate model inference tools and assist in evaluating model performance.
- Provide feedback on false positives/negatives, detection weaknesses, and annotation ambiguities.
- Maintain structured documentation of annotation processes, datasets, feature definitions, and QA results.
- Support improvements to dataset pipelines and annotation workflows through iterative refinement and testing.
- Assist multiple DAML groups as needed, depending on dataset demands and model development cycles.

Required Qualifications

- Background in GIS, Remote Sensing, Image Analysis, Digital Art, Photography, or related field (degree preferred but not required with strong experience).
- Prior experience with image annotation, data labeling, GIS feature extraction, or segmentation workflows.
- Ability to visually identify subtle features in imagery with extreme precision.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and documentation skills.
- Ability to work with large datasets for extended periods while maintaining accuracy and focus.

Required Skills and Tools

- Adobe Photoshop (Advanced): Expertise in mask creation, polygon tracing, color differentiation, clean-up workflows, and segmentation editing.
- GIS Tools (Intermediate+): Ability to work in QGIS, ERDAS Imagine, or Global Mapper for spatial visualization and annotation support.
- Geospatial Data Handling: Ability to work with shapefiles, GeoPackages, raster datasets, and other formats used in ML workflows.
- Python (Basic–Intermediate): Ability to run scripts, perform data checks, and assist with pre-processing tasks.
- Documentation Tools: Proficiency using Jupyter Notebook and Git for tracking annotation notes and revisions.

Strongly Desired Skills and Tools

- Experience creating training datasets for machine learning, object detection, or image segmentation models.
- Familiarity with YOLO, PyTorch, or fast.ai (conceptual knowledge acceptable).
- Ability to create simple scripts to automate annotation steps or pre-processing tasks.
- Experience using ChatGPT or other LLMs to improve workflows, generate helper scripts, or automate documentation.
- Understanding of geospatial features such as vegetation, buildings, vehicles, aircraft, or other runtime elements.

Reporting Expectations

The Specialist reports jointly to managers in the Advanced Model Development and Applied Real-Time Vision groups depending on project assignment. Regular updates are expected on dataset progress, annotation quality, workflow blockers, and model evaluation findings. The Specialist is expected to meet annotation quotas while maintaining strict accuracy and quality standards.

## Compensation

$82,000 - 92,000 / 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.

Aechelon Technology 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 hr_team@aechelon.com to request that accommodation, and please be sure to include a detailed description of your requested accommodation, your name and preferred method of contact.

## About Aechelon Technology

## Company Overview
- **One-liner**: Aechelon Technology provides mission-grade synthetic reality visualization and simulation solutions for defense, national security, and emergency response customers.
- **Entity Type**: Private (acquired by Shield AI, Inc. in November 2024)
- **Headquarters**: South San Francisco, California, United States
- **Founded**: 1998
- **Founders**: Nacho Sanz-Pastor (Co-Founder & CEO), Javier Castellar (Co-Founder & Chief Strategy Officer)

## Core Business
- Primary industry/industries: Defense Technology, Simulation & Training, Synthetic Reality, AI/ML Data Generation
- Target customers: U.S. Department of Defense (all branches), U.S. Allies, Government Prime Contractors, national security and emergency response organizations
- Mission statement: "Ensure the safety, mission readiness and tactical superiority of national security and emergency response customers with immersive, high-fidelity and geo-specific representations of the real world."

## Products & Services
- **Nucleus**: Real-time image generator with 8K imagery at 240Hz, multi-GPU single chassis design, incorporating AI/ML-driven databases.
- **Nexus**: Secure shared storage solution for geospatial and sensor databases.
- **SkyBeam™**: Rapid database updates and full motion video (FMV) generation.
- **RTK (Radar Toolkit)**: Software toolkit for radar simulation and sensor modeling.
- **Geo-Specific Databases**: High-fidelity, multi-spectral digital twin of Earth for training, testing, and mission rehearsal.
- **Mixed Reality (MR) Trainers**: Head-mounted display solutions for immersive training, including eye-limiting multi-sensor MR systems.

## Market Standing
- **Valuation/Market Cap**: Not publicly disclosed (private company, acquired by Shield AI)
- **Key Metric**: Annual Revenue of ~$23.6 million (LinkedIn estimate)
- **Notable Investors/Partners**: Shield AI (parent company since November 2024), Sagewind Capital (prior investment)
- **Growth Signals**: Headcount of 174 employees (+17.8% YoY, +34 people); LinkedIn followers grew 73.1% year-over-year; over 1,000 DoD operational flight training systems supported across U.S. and Allies; active on major defense programs including F-35, P-8 Poseidon, CH-47F, MH-60R/S, and F-16.

## Competitive Advantages
- **Unmatched Fidelity**: Real-time 8K imagery at 240Hz with real-world physics, precise terrain, weather, and light reflection.
- **Multi-Domain Expertise**: Decades of experience (since 1998) in visual simulation for air, ground, and maritime platforms across all U.S. military branches.
- **AI/ML Integration**: Ability to generate synthetic training data and virtual sensor feeds to validate autonomous systems and AI/ML models at scale.
- **Proven Track Record**: Excellent past performance evaluations on numerous high-profile defense programs with zero delivery failures noted.
- **Patented Technology**: Holds 8+ patents in image generation and display systems, with 11 patents attributed to key engineer David Morgan.

## Strategic Focus
- **Autonomous Systems & AI**: Scaling synthetic data generation for AI/ML training of autonomous navigation and ISR systems.
- **Digital Twin Expansion**: Developing global commercial databases for multi-domain operations.
- **Multi-Spectral Sensor Simulation**: Enhancing sensor capabilities across visual, radar, and infrared spectrums for mission rehearsal.
- **Growth Through Shield AI**: Leveraging acquisition to accelerate development and expand market reach.

## Why Work Here
- **Mission-Driven Work**: Directly contribute to national security and support U.S. Armed Forces and Allies.
- **Cutting-Edge Tech**: Work with state-of-the-art AI/ML, 8K real-time graphics, and mixed reality systems.
- **Stability & Growth**: Long-standing company (27+ years) with consistent growth and recent acquisition by Shield AI.
- **Culture**: Emphasizes innovation, trustworthiness, and "performance without compromise" as core values.
- **Locations**: South San Francisco, CA (HQ); Overland Park, KS; Orlando, FL; Farmer's Branch, TX; presence in Spain and Canada.
- **Open Roles**: 17 active positions across Software Engineering, QA, Data Science, Systems Engineering, IT, and Content Creation (as of search date).

## Sources
1. [aechelon.com](https://aechelon.com/)
2. [aechelon.com/about](https://aechelon.com/about/)
3. [aechelon.com/careers](https://aechelon.com/careers/)
4. [Greenhouse Job Board](http://job-boards.greenhouse.io/aechelontechnology)
5. [LinkedIn Company Page](https://www.linkedin.com/company/aechelon-technology)

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