Computer Vision Engineer (C++)

About Shield AI

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed deep-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include the V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, Hivemind Enterprise, and the Hivemind Vision product lines. With nine offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and the Asia-Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide.

Job Summary

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.

Key Responsibilities

• 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.

Requirements

• 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.