Principal Engineer, C++ Build and Workflow (R3139)

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.   

As a C++ Build and Workflow Engineer on the Forge team, you will help define and implement the workflows that enable C++ developers to seamlessly integrate Forge tools into their software development processes. Your work will ensure that developers can bridge fast, iterative local development with large-scale testing, simulation, and analysis. This role involves developing software for the simulation stack and tooling for dependency management (e.g., Conan, CMake), IDE integrations, and CI/CD optimization. Additionally, you’ll create and maintain documentation and best practices to enable both internal teams and external customers to adopt Forge workflows efficiently. 

• Design and implement workflows for integrating Forge tools into C++ development environments, focusing on simulation, dependency management, and orchestration. 
• Build and optimize tools for C++ dependency management and packaging, leveraging tools like Conan and CMake. 
• Contribute to the simulation code base. 
• Develop IDE integrations and workflows to enhance developer productivity and streamline the use of Forge tools. 
• Define and document best practices for transitioning from local development to large-scale testing, simulation, and analysis. 
• Collaborate with software operations and CI/CD teams to optimize pipelines for Forge-enabled projects. 
• Create and maintain comprehensive, user-friendly documentation for internal developers and external customers, including tutorials and technical guides. 
• Provide recommendations and guidance on improving C++ build and deployment practices, both internally and for customers using Forge. 
• Work closely with the software engineering and customer engagement teams to identify pain points and deliver solutions that improve developer experience and workflow efficiency.

• Typically requires a minimum of 15 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 14 years and a Master’s degree; or a PhD with 12 years experience; or equivalent experience.
• BS/MS in Computer Science, Engineering, or equivalent practical experience. 
• 8+ years of experience in C++ development, build systems, and DevOps. 
• Demonstrated experience prioritizing test driven design 
• Experience with threaded/parallel applications 
• Expertise in C++ dependency management and build tools such as Conan, CMake, and Ninja. 
• Experience with numerical methods in a physics application 
• Experience supporting a production product, especially experience in things like customer support (internal or external) i.e with ticketing system 
• Strong experience with CI/CD pipelines, including tools like Jenkins, GitLab CI/CD, or GitHub Actions. 
• Experience with Golang 
• Proficiency in integrating tools into developer workflows, including IDE integrations (e.g., Visual Studio, CLion, VSCode). 
• Familiarity with large-scale testing, simulation, and orchestration in distributed systems. 
• Strong technical writing skills, with experience creating clear, detailed documentation and best practices for developers. 
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and communicate technical solutions effectively. 

• Experience with simulation frameworks and their integration into developer workflows. 
• Experience in distributed simulation systems 
• Knowledge of containerization and orchestration tools like Docker and Kubernetes. 
• Familiarity with data analysis and orchestration pipelines. 
• Hands-on experience with optimizing C++ build performance and debugging complex build issues. 
• Background in designing workflows for regulated industries, such as aerospace or defense, with a focus on security and compliance. 
• Proficiency in Golang, Python or Bash for scripting and automation. 

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Total package details for U.S. based positions:

- Regular employee positions: Salary within range listed above + Bonus + Benefits + Equity

- Temporary employee positions: Hourly within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days

of employment)

- Interns/Military Fellows/Part-time not eligible for bonus, benefits or equity

Total package details for International positions which are roles based outside of the United States (where applicable):

- International premium, hardship differential, cost of living differential, living quarters allowance, foreign service transfer

allowance, equity, international benefits, visa assistance, and relocation assistance.

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.

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.