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Spatial Computing Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Spatial Computing information

What is spatial computing?

Spatial computing refers to the use of digital technology to interact with and manipulate physical space and objects. It integrates technologies like augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), sensors, and artificial intelligence to create immersive experiences that blend the digital and physical worlds. Spatial computing is used in various fields, such as gaming, architecture, healthcare, and manufacturing, to enhance visualization, collaboration, and data analysis. This technology enables users to interact with digital content as if it were part of their real environment.

What is the difference between Spatial Computing vs Augmented Reality Developer?

AspectSpatial ComputingAugmented Reality Developer
Required CredentialsTypically a degree in computer science, engineering, or related fields; knowledge of 3D modeling and programmingSimilar credentials, often with specialization in AR platforms and SDKs
Work EnvironmentDesigning and developing 3D environments, often involving hardware like AR/VR headsets and sensorsCreating AR applications for mobile devices or AR glasses, often in app development environments
Industry UsageUsed across gaming, architecture, healthcare, and training for spatial interactionPrimarily in entertainment, marketing, and mobile app development sectors

While both roles involve immersive technology, Spatial Computing focuses on creating comprehensive 3D environments and interactions, whereas Augmented Reality Developers specialize in overlaying digital content onto real-world views. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or project focus within immersive tech industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Spatial Computing Specialist, and why are they important?

To excel as a Spatial Computing Specialist, a solid background in computer science, mathematics, and 3D modeling, often supported by a relevant degree or certification, is essential. Familiarity with programming languages (such as C++, Python), spatial mapping tools, AR/VR development platforms (like Unity or Unreal Engine), and sensor integration is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, creativity, and effective cross-disciplinary communication set top professionals apart in this field. These skills are vital for developing innovative spatial computing solutions that blend digital and physical environments, driving advancements in industries such as gaming, architecture, and healthcare.

What are some common challenges spatial computing professionals face when working on cross-disciplinary teams?

Spatial computing professionals often collaborate with experts in software development, user experience design, hardware engineering, and domain specialists. A common challenge is ensuring effective communication between team members with different technical backgrounds and vocabularies. Additionally, integrating spatial data and real-world context into digital solutions requires careful coordination and iterative testing. Successful professionals are proactive in bridging knowledge gaps and fostering a shared understanding to drive project goals forward.
What job categories do people searching Spatial Computing jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Spatial Computing jobs in Tennessee are:
Research Software Engineer III (Hybrid Eligible)

Research Software Engineer III (Hybrid Eligible)

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Oak Ridge National Laboratory rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 103 rated laboratories


Job description

Requisition Id 16694 

Overview:

The Geoinformatics Engineering Group, within the Human Dynamics Section of the Geospatial Science and Engineering Division at ORNL is seeking a Software Engineer. We are looking for candidates to assist and lead developers in creating next-generation technologies supporting operational situational awareness products. These candidates will bring fresh ideas from areas including information retrieval, distributed computing, large-scale system design, networking and data storage, artificial intelligence, and data processing workflows. Our staff need to be flexible and enthusiastic to take on problems across the software stack as we continue to solve complex national scale security problems in the areas of spatial computing.

As part of our outstanding organization, you will focus on leading teams that implement geospatial systems and data solutions for high-volume and high-velocity data applications. The proposed solutions will include high-performance computing that can be applicable for several geospatially focused research and development projects in the domains of energy, transportation, and other cross-disciplinary geospatial applications. The software engineer works with research scientists across the lab with the primary goal of researching and developing cutting edge software solutions to complex problems while leveraging the lab’s world-class resources.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Develop software to support project-specific applications of spatial computing, real-time data platforms, and machine intelligence systems.
  • Lead and contribute to diverse teams of developers and software development efforts to support new and ongoing research.
  • Develop geospatial software and digital map layers as services. 
  • Work with researchers and project sponsors to capture, understand, integrate, and implement project requirements in developed services and software.
  • Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

Basic Qualifications:

  • BS with 8 years of experience or MS with 7 years of experience or a PhD with 2 years of experience in engineering, computer science, physics, mathematics, natural sciences, or related field.
  • Experience with programming languages (Java, Python, C++, etc.) or frontend web application frameworks (Angular, React, Vue, etc.).
  • Leadership experience for development teams as either a technical lead or scrum master.
  • Experience with spatial enabled databases (Postgresql with PostGIS) or NoSQL Database or frontend use of data APIs to support data exchange.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Understanding of the full software development lifecycle from planning to operations.
  • Understanding of cloud and cloud-native technologies and infrastructure-as-code for automated deployment for distributed systems.
  • Experience in software systems, data systems, ETL, analytics, visualization, computer driven distributed data processing, or similar geospatial research projects.
  • Experience with open-source tools and system, OGC web services, and web development frameworks. 
  • Excellent interpersonal skills with a demonstrated leadership ability and a solid commitment to a teaming environment.
  • Understanding of spatial data structures and formats and mechanisms for developing web services.
  • Exposure to microservices concepts and understanding of container environments including Docker, Docker-Compose, and Kubernetes.
  • Experience in one compiled language as well as one interpreted language a plus. 

Special Requirements:

  • Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
  • This position requires access to technology that is subject to export control requirements. Successful candidates must be qualified for such access without an export control license.

About ORNL:

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain talented people! The laboratory offers many employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to help you and your family live happy and healthy. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also provided for convenience.

Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.

In addition, we offer a flexible work environment that supports both the organization and the employee. A hybrid/onsite working arrangement may be available with this position.

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This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply.  UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.


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