Computer Vision Engineer (C++) (R4633)

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai . Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn , X , Instagram , and YouTube .
We’re looking for a Computer Vision Engineer (C++) to join our team in Port Melbourne, contributing to the development of innovative, real-time perception solutions for next-gen autonomous platforms. Whether you're a recent PhD graduate or a seasoned commercial developer, this is an opportunity to help solve real-world defence challenges using cutting-edge vision and AI technology. You’ll be part of a team developing custom algorithms - not just applying libraries - and will work alongside expert AI and deep learning engineers to integrate CV into real-time pipelines across a range of unmanned systems.

What You'll Do:

• Design and implement novel computer vision algorithms from scratch, optimised for real-time performance.
• Develop and maintain C++-based CV pipelines as part of autonomous mission systems.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of AI, robotics, and optical engineers to deliver reliable edge solutions.
• Support the integration of deep learning models into broader CV systems, working closely with AI experts.
• Stay across current academic research and emerging techniques in computer vision and ML.

What You'll Bring:

• Deep proficiency in C++ and comfortable working in high-performance real-time environments.
• Strong experience writing custom computer vision algorithms, beyond just library use.
• Solid understanding of computer vision, image processing, and machine learning principles.

Bonus Points For:

• Experience in any of the following:
• Object detection, target tracking, or 3D reconstruction.
• SLAM, camera calibration, or behaviour analysis.
• Automated video surveillance or other related real-time vision systems.
• Familiarity with OpenCV and similar vision toolkits.
• Exposure to deep learning for image classification, recognition, or sequence modelling.
• Interest in combining deep learning and CV pipelines in real-time deployment scenarios.
• Master’s or PhD in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.
• Previous Defence experience is highly desirable.

Why Shield AI?

• Build mission-critical vision and autonomy systems that make a real-world impact.
• Collaborate with some of the best minds in AI, autonomy, and defence technology.
• Hybrid role based in our Port Melbourne office.
• Salary + equity for permanent roles, with a strong career development pathway.

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.