C++ Software Engineer - Autonomy/Physical AI at Applied… · Ann Arbor

Summary: Applied Intuition is a leading company in powering the future of physical AI, focusing on creating digital infrastructure for autonomous systems. The role involves designing and implementing high-performance backend systems in C++ for defense autonomy products, tackling complex challenges in multi-domain environments, and contributing to the growth of the Ann Arbor site. 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 Required Qualifications: - 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 Required Skills: C++, Backend Engineering, Systems Programming, Concurrency, Performance Optimization, Distributed Systems, Robotics, Physical AI, Python, Multi-domain Defense Systems, Security Clearance Benefits: 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, Paid time off