Shield AI · 8 hours ago
Staff Engineer, C++ Systems Integration (R4018)
Washington, DC
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level, Lead/Staff
$151K/yr - $226K/yr
7+ years expShield AI is a venture-backed deep-tech company focused on protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. The Staff Engineer will lead complex technical efforts in C++ systems integration, shaping capabilities for autonomy and real-time system interfaces across multiple platforms.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)Autonomous VehiclesDronesMachine LearningNational Security
No H1B
Security Clearance RequiredU.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
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
Qualification
Required
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
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
Benefits
Bonus
Benefits
Equity
Temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
Company
Shield AI
Shield AI is a deep-tech company that focuses on developing AI-powered systems to enhance the safety of service members and civilians.
1001-5000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
$1.31BKey Investors
Hercules CapitalUS Innovative Technology FundSnowpoint Ventures
2025-03-06Series F· $240M
2023-12-29Debt Financing· $200M
2023-10-31Series F· $300M
Leadership Team
Gary Steele
Chief Executive Officer
Brandon Tseng
Co-Founder
Recent News
2025-12-11
Company data provided by crunchbase