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Shield AI

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Staff Software Engineer, C++ Software Integration (R4018)

Summary

Lead integration of high-performance C++ and Python systems for autonomy, simulation, and real-time interfaces in defense-tech, using gRPC, REST, and CI/CD pipelines.

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit . Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube.

This role is for a seasoned C++ generalist and systems integrator who thrives at the intersection of software, infrastructure, and integration. You’ll lead complex technical efforts across distributed systems and simulation environments, with minimal oversight. Your work will shape foundational capabilities that power autonomy, simulation, and real-time system interfaces across multiple platforms.

What You'll Do:

    • Architect and implement high-performance C++ and Python systems across cross-platform environments.

    • Lead the design and integration of distributed systems, simulation tools, and third-party hardware/software.

    • Define and enforce technical direction, design patterns, and integration practices across projects.

    • Guide teams in building robust messaging and API layers (e.g., gRPC, REST, ZeroMQ) that bridge critical system components.

    • Own the evolution and support of CI/CD pipelines using GitLab CI, Docker, Conan, and CMake.

    • Lead debugging and optimization of real-time and multi-threaded systems across a range of domains.

    • Drive end-to-end integration efforts, including planning, implementation, and verification across simulation and operational systems.

    • Serve as a force multiplier by mentoring other engineers and contributing to shared tooling and process improvements.

    • Evaluate and incorporate new technologies that improve system performance, stability, and developer efficiency.

    Required Qualifications:

      • Typically requires a minimum of 7 years of related experience with a

      • Bachelor’s degree; or 5 years and a Master’s degree; or 4 years with a PhD; or equivalent work experience.

      • Advanced experience designing and maintaining large C++ systems, with fluency in C++14/17/20 and comfort navigating legacy C++98/03 codebases.

      • Proficiency in Linux/Unix environments, including system-level development and debugging tools.

      • Strong systems integration background with practical experience in distributed systems, real-time processing, and hardware/software interfaces.

      • Significant experience with CI/CD systems, containerization (e.g., Docker), and build tooling (e.g., CMake, Conan).

      • Proficiency in Python and familiarity with other scripting and automation tools.

      • Deep knowledge of Linux environments (Windows experience is a bonus).

      • Demonstrated success leading efforts involving 10+ contributors, including technical planning and mentorship.

      • Strong understanding of networking concepts and communication protocols.

      • Active SECRET clearance.

      Preferred Qualifications:

        • Real-time or distributed simulation experience (e.g., AFSIM, NGTS, or similar).

        • Familiarity with message-passing infrastructure and web-service technologies like gRPC, REST APIs, and message queues.

        • Familiarity with open standards like UCI and OMS, and an understanding of data buses and interface protocols common in avionics and aircraft systems.

        • Experience integrating simulation with autonomy frameworks or real-time operators.

        • Experience developing and integrating with modeling or analysis pipelines.

        • Ability to obtain a TS/SCI clearance.

        #LI-LD1

        #LD

        Full-time regular employee offer package:

        Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity

        Temporary employee offer package:

        Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)

        Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.

        ###

        Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.

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        What this application asks

        ashby

        Name, Email, Resume

        • Current company optional
        • Current location optional
        • Phone optional
        • Additional information written answer · optional
        • LinkedIn optional
        • Twitter optional
        • GitHub optional
        • Portfolio optional
        • Other optional
        • Are you authorized to work in the United States? choose one
        • Will you require sponsorship for employment now or in the future? choose one
        • If yes, what type of sponsorship? written answer · optional
        • This position may require access to information and technology that is subject to export controls, such as EAR. Are you any of the following? choose one
        • If you selected "A protected Individual" OR "Other" to the above question, please explain further. written answer · optional
        • Shield AI provides technology, services, and support to the United States military and allied forces with their various missions. If selected for employment with Shield AI, your contributions will directly relate to and/or support these missions. Are there any reasons why you would not be able to fully contribute in support of the U.S. military and allied forces? choose one
        • (Optional) If you selected other or would like to expand on the above, feel free to do so below: written answer · optional
        • How did you hear about us? choose one
        • If "Industry Conference" or "Other," please provide more details: written answer · optional
        • Please state your full legal name:
        • Are you a transitioning service member? choose one
        • If yes, what partnership program are you working with? choose one · optional
        • If other, please provide further details written answer · optional
        • When are you available to start your fellowship? written answer · optional
        • When are you available for full time work? written answer · optional
        • What full time job(s) are you applying for? written answer
        • Are you local to or willing to relocate? choose one
        • What office(s) would you be willing to relocate to? (Select all that apply) choose any · optional
        • If you selected international, what location(s)? written answer · optional
        • This position requires an Active or the eligibility to obtain a U.S. DoD Secret Security Clearance (U.S. Citizenship Required). choose one · optional
        • Success in this role requires daily engagement with advanced C++ features and software design concepts. Please assess your comfort level with C++11 (or above). choose one · optional

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