Perception Engineer - Defense

• Develop perception models that find and classify targets with an error rate of <1/100

• Deploy perception models to Jetson Orin+ boards and optimize models for better-than-realtime performance.

• Build large foundation models for high-accuracy assisted data labeling.

• Build tooling across the entire perception stack: labeling tools, simulation.

• Work with the best and most competitive AI talent in the world through collaboration with Applied Intuition self-driving staff.

• Scale up datasets using a variety of state-of-the-art data generation techniques including simulation, diffusion, and generative AI.

• Create and maintain highly optimized models and inference software providing model results at maximum attainable frames per second (FPS) on Jetson-like hardware.

• Collaborate across the hardware, sensor, tracking, autonomy, and testing teams to ensure seamless deployment in on-site DoD testing and demonstration events.

• MS or PhD in Computer Engineering, Robotic Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent OR 5+ years of relevant experience working with simulation, machine learning, and ML infrastructure.

• Proficiency in training ML models in PyTorch on multi-machine, multi-GPU systems.

• Experience in optimizing and deploying machine learning models to edge devices.

• Strong experience with agentic coding with proven experience in Python and/or cpp.

• Experience leveraging modern AI-powered development tools (e.g., GitHub Copilot, Cursor) to accelerate the creation of robust, well-tested systems.

• Adeptness with remote software development, the ability to handle and process large datasets, and a capacity to learn new software and algorithms as needed with little supervision .

• Must be willing to travel as projects require, usually for SW/HW integration and/or demonstrations; estimated average travel is 2-5 days every other month (10-20%)

• Interested candidates should also inquire about relocation assistance to Applied Intuition Defense facilities near Destin, FL, Washington, D.C., or San Diego, CA

• Must be a U.S. Citizen

• Must hold or be eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance

For more information about U.S. security clearances: click here .

• PhD in Computer Vision, Machine Learning, or related field with strong academic contributions

• 5+ years of experience building and deploying perception models on real-world hardware

• A background in generating datasets using simulation engines like Unreal Engine, NVIDIA Omniverse, Blender, or 3D asset creation tools

• Experience with deeply optimizing Transformer-based models for edge devices like NVIDIA Jetson boards

• Familiarity with Software-in-the-Loop (SIL) and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL), including integration and test experience on common COTS hardware devices (e.g., NVIDIA Jetson, Raspberry Pi5)

Compensation at Applied Intuition for eligible roles includes base salary, equity, and benefits. Base salary is a single component of the total compensation package, which may also include equity in the form of options and/or restricted stock units, comprehensive health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance coverage, 401k retirement benefits with employer match, learning and wellness stipends, and paid time off. Note that benefits are subject to change and may vary based on jurisdiction of employment. Applied Intuition pay ranges reflect the minimum and maximum intended target base salary for new hire salaries for the position. The actual base salary offered to a successful candidate will additionally be influenced by a variety of factors including experience, credentials & certifications, educational attainment, skill level requirements, interview performance, and the level and scope of the position. Don't meet every single requirement? If you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles. Applied Intuition is an equal opportunity employer and federal contractor or subcontractor. Consequently, the parties agree that, as applicable, they will abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-1.4(a), 41 CFR 60-300.5(a) and 41 CFR 60-741.5(a) and that these laws are incorporated herein by reference. These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities, and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin. These regulations require that covered prime contractors and subcontractors take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status or disability. The parties also agree that, as applicable, they will abide by the requirements of Executive Order 13496 (29 CFR Part 471, Appendix A to Subpart A), relating to the notice of employee rights under federal labor laws.