Lead Software Engineer - Autonomy/Physical AI

Applied Intuition is a Silicon Valley company powering the future of physical AI and is rapidly scaling its defense product ecosystem. They are seeking a Lead Software Engineer to design and implement backend systems for their defense autonomy products, tackling complex challenges in multi-domain environments.

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