Skip to content

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

Washington, DC
Full Time On-site

Summary

Job Description

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.
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. 

About Shield AI

Shield AI

Shield AI is a defense technology company building autonomous AI systems for aircraft, drones, and intelligent mission software used in complex military environments. Founded in 2015, the company is best known for developing Hivemind, an AI pilot system that enables aircraft and drones to operate autonomously in contested and GPS-denied environments, supporting U.S. and allied defense missions.

For job seekers, Shield AI offers opportunities across advanced fields including artificial intelligence, robotics, software engineering, autonomy systems, aerospace engineering, embedded systems, and mission operations. The company is especially attractive to engineers, AI researchers, and defense professionals who want to work on real-world autonomous systems that are actively being deployed in operational military scenarios.

Unlike traditional defense contractors, Shield AI operates with a startup-style engineering culture focused on rapid experimentation, real-world testing, and fast deployment of autonomous capabilities. Employees work on tightly integrated AI and robotics systems that combine perception, decision-making, and control, enabling platforms to operate without direct human input in highly complex environments.

As modern warfare increasingly shifts toward autonomous systems, distributed sensing, and AI-enabled decision-making, Shield AI continues to grow as one of the most prominent companies in next-generation defense technology. For professionals seeking to build cutting-edge autonomy systems with direct mission impact, Shield AI stands out as a leading employer in the defense innovation ecosystem.

Go to company profile