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C++ Software Engineer - Physical AI

Applied Intuition· Defense
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Ann Arbor$100k - $200kFull-timePosted 3mo ago

About the role

Backend C++ engineer for Axion and Acuity defense products, building high-performance backend infrastructure at the edge for multi-domain autonomous operations in a on-site Ann Arbor environment.

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

Qualifications

  • 3 + years of professional software engineering experience, with strong C++ at the core
  • Bachelors in Computer Science or similar field of study
  • 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 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

Skills

Required:C++PythonSystems programmingCommunication
Nice to have:Autonomy / robotics interest

Benefits

  • Base salary with a range of $100K – $200K
  • Equity
  • Comprehensive health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance
  • 401k retirement benefits with employer match
  • Learning and wellness stipends
  • Paid time off
Last updated Oct 11, 2026. Interested? Apply on the company site.

About Applied Intuition

Building vehicle intelligence | Applied Intuition

Applied Intuition is the vehicle intelligence company with the tools, Vehicle OS, and autonomy stacks for creating safe, AI-powered vehicle experiences.

AIAutonomy stacksSelf-Driving SystemSimulationTesting & ValidationVehicle IntelligenceVehicle OSai-infrastructure-and-development
Company profileWebsite

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