Lead Software Engineer - Autonomy/Physical AI

Backend C++ Engineer

Applied Intuition is rapidly scaling its defense product ecosystem in Ann Arbor! We're looking for talented backend C++ engineers at all levels, who are ready to work on some of the hardest autonomy challenges in physical AI today.

You'll be a core contributor to Axion and Acuity, our flagship defense products, building the foundational systems that power multi-domain autonomous operations. This is not a maintenance role. You'll architect, implement, and own backend infrastructure that runs at the edge of what's technically possible, in environments where the stakes are real.

The A2 team sits at the intersection of Applied's commercial technology velocity and defense-grade requirements, giving you access to a rapidly evolving product suite and real world impact. You'll work in small, high-ownership teams where your code ships, your decisions matter, and your impact on national security is direct.

At Applied Intuition, you will:

• 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

We're looking for someone who has:

• 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; 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

Security Requirements:

• Must be a U.S. Citizen
• Must hold or be eligible for a U.S. Secret security clearance

Compensation at Applied Intuition for eligible roles includes base salary, equity, and benefits. Base salary is a single component of the total compensation package, which may also include equity in the form of options and/or restricted stock units, comprehensive health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance coverage, 401k retirement benefits with employer match, learning and wellness stipends, and paid time off. Note that benefits are subject to change and may vary based on jurisdiction of employment.

Applied Intuition pay ranges reflect the minimum and maximum intended target base salary for new hire salaries for the position. The actual base salary offered to a successful candidate will additionally be influenced by a variety of factors including experience, credentials & certifications, educational attainment, skill level requirements, interview performance, and the level and scope of the position.

Don't meet every single requirement? If you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

Applied Intuition is an equal opportunity employer and federal contractor or subcontractor. Consequently, the parties agree that, as applicable, they will abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-1.4(a), 41 CFR 60-300.5(a) and 41 CFR 60-741.5(a) and that these laws are incorporated herein by reference. These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities, and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin. These regulations require that covered prime contractors and subcontractors take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status or disability. The parties also agree that, as applicable, they will abide by the requirements of Executive Order 13496 (29 CFR Part 471, Appendix A to Subpart A), relating to the notice of employee rights under federal labor laws.