Lead Software Engineer - Autonomy/Physical AI

Responsibilities

• Design and implement high-performance backend systems in C++ for Axion and Acuity, Applied's core defense autonomy products
• Tackle hard autonomy challenges across multi-domain environments, from unmanned ground and aerial platforms to broader joint-force integration scenarios
• Build scalable, reliable infrastructure that enables autonomous systems to operate in contested and degraded conditions
• Partner closely with autonomy researchers, product teams, and defense customers to translate mission requirements into robust software solutions
• Own end-to-end execution of high-stakes engineering workstreams from architecture through deployment
• Contribute to the Ann Arbor site's rapid buildout, helping shape team culture, technical standards, and engineering practices as we scale
• Interface with DOD programs and defense customers to ensure solutions meet real-world operational demands

Requirements

• 6+ years professional software engineering experience, with strong C++ at the core
• Deep backend engineering fundamentals: systems programming, concurrency, performance optimization, and distributed systems
• Genuine interest in autonomy, robotics, or physical AI
• Exposure to or curiosity about multi-domain defense systems
• Strong CS/CE/EE (or similar) foundation
• Python proficiency for tooling, scripting, and integration work
• Thrives in ambiguity and comfortable driving clarity in fast-moving, high-stakes environments
• Excellent communication skills
• Must be a U.S. Citizen
• Must hold or be eligible for a U.S. Secret security clearance

Nice-to-Haves

• Interest in developing a defense industry background