Lead Software Engineer - Autonomy/Physical AI

Applied Intuition is looking for a Lead Software Engineer to work on their defense product ecosystem in Ann Arbor. The ideal candidate will have experience with C++ and backend engineering fundamentals, and be interested in autonomy, robotics, or physical AI.

Requirements

• 6+ years professional software engineering experience
• Deep backend engineering fundamentals: systems programming, concurrency, performance optimization, and distributed systems
• Genuine interest in autonomy, robotics, or physical AI
• Strong CS/CE/EE (or similar) foundation
• 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

Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance coverage
• 401k retirement benefits with employer match
• Learning and wellness stipends
• Paid time off