Senior Staff Engineer, C++ Modeling & Simulation Engineer (R3278)

The Rundown AI, Inc.; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 100,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a seasoned C++ engineer to lead innovative simulation projects that drive autonomy development. This role offers the chance to work on high-impact projects, collaborating with a skilled team to integrate advanced technologies and systems. You will be at the forefront of developing solutions that enhance defense capabilities, with opportunities for mentorship and leadership. If you are passionate about technology and thrive in a dynamic environment, this position is a perfect fit for you.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in software engineering and systems integration.
• Advanced proficiency in C++ with modern standards and legacy systems.
• Experience in real-time and distributed simulation environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of high-performance C++ software.
• Integrate third-party systems into comprehensive architectures.
• Mentor engineers and promote best practices in software development.

Skills

C++ Programming

Python

Problem-Solving

Systems Integration

Agile Software Development

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or related field

Master's Degree in Computer Science or related field

PhD in Computer Science or related field

Tools

Docker

Linux

CMake

gRPC

REST APIs

Job description

About Shield AI

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense technology company focused on protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its flagship autonomy software, Hivemind, powers aircraft, drones, and other platforms, enabling complex missions with high reliability in contested environments. With offices in San Diego, Dallas, Washington, D.C., and internationally, Shield AI’s products actively support U.S. and allied operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn,Twitter, and Instagram.

This position is perfect for a seasoned C++ engineer with advanced expertise in modeling and simulation, systems, and systems integration. As a key leader, you will tackle the most challenging and complex projects with minimal oversight, driving impactful results in collaboration with a dynamic and skilled team. You will develop simulation solutions to drive autonomy development on high impact projects. This is an opportunity to shape innovative solutions, integrating third-party systems and simulation environments, and advancing cutting-edge technologies.

What You'll Do:

• Lead the design, development, and maintenance of high-performance C++ software for complex systems.
• Architect robust, scalable simulation solutions for systems of systems and real-time processing.
• Drive the integration of third-party software and hardware systems into comprehensive architectures.
• Set technical standards and mentor other engineers to promote excellence and best practices.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure project alignment and successful delivery.
• Implement modern agile software development practices, including continuous integration and test-driven development.
• Tackle complex debugging and optimization challenges to enhance system performance.
• Explore and adopt new technologies to stay at the forefront of the field.
• Drive task decomposition for teams and individuals.

Required Qualifications:

• Typically requires a minimum of 10 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 9 years and a Master’s degree; or 7 years with a PhD; or equivalent work experience.
• Advanced professional experience in software engineering and systems integration.
• Familiarity with design patterns and system-level engineering principles.
• Extensive experience in C++ using modern C++ (C++17/20) while possessing a solid understanding of older standards (C++98/03) for adapting to legacy code and systems seamlessly.
• Experience in Python.
• Experience with AFSIM or NGTS.
• Real-time and distributed simulation experience.
• Programming experience in a Linux environment (Windows experience is a bonus).
• Expertise with Docker or other containerization mechanisms.
• Demonstrated success leading projects with 10+ contributors.
• Exceptional problem-solving skills, with a fast, efficient, and effective approach.
• Deep understanding of design patterns and system architecture principles.
• Experience in a collaborative development environment, focused on continuous integration/delivery and test-driven development.
• Passion for learning and implementing new technologies.
• Demonstrated experience being a trustworthy teammate.
• Demonstrated kindness to teammates.
• Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance.

Preferred Qualifications:

• MS or greater in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, and/or similar degree, or equivalent practical experience.
• Proficiency in Python.
• Advanced knowledge of third-party system integration (software and hardware).
• Active SECRET clearance.
• Experience with plugin development in DOD simulations such as AFSIM and NGTS.
• Experience with web-service technologies like gRPC, REST APIs, message queues (ActiveMQ, ZeroMQ), etc.
• Familiarity with C++ tooling like CMake and Conan.
• Experience with UCI and OMS Standards.

What We Value:

• Strong leadership and mentorship capabilities.
• Exceptional communication and organizational skills.
• Dedication to delivering high-quality, innovative solutions.
• A collaborative and supportive team-oriented mindset.

This role is for individuals ready to lead with impact, taking ownership of their work and inspiring their teams to deliver outstanding results in an agile and forward-thinking environment.