Senior C++ Software Engineer - Defense Air

Responsibilities

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

Requirements

• 6+ years of professional software engineering experience, with strong C++ expertise.
• Deep backend engineering fundamentals, including systems programming, concurrency, performance optimization, and distributed systems.
• Genuine interest in autonomy, robotics, or physical AI.
• Exposure to or interest in multi-domain defense systems.
• Strong foundation in computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering, or a similar discipline.
• Proficiency in Python for tooling, scripting, and integration work.
• Ability to thrive in ambiguity and drive clarity and progress in fast-moving, high-stakes environments.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to explain technical tradeoffs to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Must be a U.S. citizen.
• Must hold or be eligible for a U.S. Secret security clearance.

Compensation and Benefits

• Base salary range: $150,000–$200,000.
• Total compensation may include base salary, equity in the form of options or restricted stock units, health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, 401(k) retirement benefits with employer match, learning and wellness stipends, and paid time off.
• Benefits may vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change.