# Software Engineer

**Company:** [Applied Intuition](https://hotfix.jobs/companies/applied-intuition)
**Location:** Ann Arbor, MI
**Role:** Backend Engineering
**Salary:** $100k – $200k/yr
**Skills:** C++, Python, backend engineering, systems programming, Concurrency, Performance Optimization, Distributed Systems, autonomy, Robotics, physical ai
**Posted:** 2026-07-27

> Build high-performance C++ backend systems for defense autonomy products Axion and Acuity. Tackle multi-domain autonomy challenges in contested environments, owning infrastructure from architecture to deployment in high-stakes national security applications. Requires strong C++ and backend fundamentals plus interest in physical AI.

## Job Description

## 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; 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
- 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; you want to understand how your code connects to machines operating in the real world.
- Exposure to or curiosity about multi-domain defense systems - you don't need a defense pedigree, but you're excited to develop one.
- Strong CS/CE/EE (or similar) foundation; you think rigorously about correctness and performance.
- Python proficiency for tooling, scripting, and integration work.
- Thrives in ambiguity & comfortable driving clarity and progress in fast-moving, high-stakes environments.
- Excellent communication skills; you can explain hard technical tradeoffs to both engineers and non-technical stakeholders.
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must hold or be eligible for a U.S. Secret security clearance.

## Nice-to-Haves
- Experience with autonomy, robotics, or physical AI.
- Background in multi-domain defense systems.

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