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Software Engineer (Rust)

Rosslyn, VA or Remote

About Shift5

Shift5 is building the data platform for onboard operational technology (OT). We deliver cybersecurity, predictive maintenance, and compliance capabilities that enable defense and commercial fleets to operate with greater readiness, resilience, and mission assurance.

We are seeking a mission-aligned Software Engineer (Rust) to build the core high-performance software that runs on our hardware platforms, unlocking the power of real-time vehicle data.

This role sits at the intersection of Systems Programming, Protocol Engineering, and Hardware Integration and will play a critical role in supporting Shift5’s next phase of growth.

This is not a high-level web or application role. It requires technical fluency at the bit level, ownership of memory-safe hardware abstractions, and the Relentless Innovation required to parse complex aerospace and defense protocols in resource-constrained environments.

What You’ll Do

  • Lead and execute the development of high-performance Rust software for real-time data processing on custom Linux systems.

  • Own the implementation of robust, type-safe hardware abstractions and memory-safe FFI boundaries with existing C-based APIs.

  • Partner closely with hardware engineers, security researchers, and data analytics teams to define stable data contracts and protocol specifications.

  • Drive measurable impact in system performance by optimizing code for low-latency data acquisition from MIL-STD-1553, ARINC-429, and CAN buses.

  • Identify and act on opportunities to improve code generation pipelines and metaprogramming systems for protocol translation.

  • Navigate complex, resource-constrained Linux environments using deep systems knowledge, profiling, and hardware-level debugging.

  • Contribute directly to the mission by transforming raw, bit-level data into actionable cybersecurity and operational insights for defense and transportation fleets.

What Success Looks Like

  • Establish a baseline of technical excellence by mastering our Rust codebase and contributing to core data processing pipelines.

  • Build organizational credibility by successfully navigating FFI boundaries and architectural discussions with cross-functional stakeholders.

  • Drive high-quality technical delivery by implementing robust parsers for complex wire protocols and ensuring they meet strict performance benchmarks.

  • Improve system stability and reliability by advocating for architectural enhancements and implementing comprehensive unit and integration tests.

  • Foster a culture of data-driven decisions by delivering clean, structured information from undocumented or complex data protocols.

What We’re Looking For

  • Experience in systems programming with a focus on deep Linux kernel interaction and hardware optimization.

  • Demonstrated ability to ship commercial Rust projects in a production environment.

  • Strong technical skills in memory management, concurrency (message-passing/lock-free), and systems debugging.

  • Comfort operating in fast-paced, regulated environments with the ability to obtain a U.S. Government Security Clearance.

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or equivalent experience.

  • Preferred qualifications include experience with vehicle data protocols (CAN, 1553), reverse engineering mindsets, and safety-critical software certifications (DO-178C).

Compensation & Benefits

  • Base Salary: $151,000 – $192,000

  • Bonus program and equity in a fast-growing startup

  • Employer-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage

  • Health Savings Account with annual employer contributions

  • Life and Disability Insurance

  • Uncapped paid time off policy

  • Flexible work & remote work policy

  • Tax-deferred public transit benefits with Metro SmartBenefits (DC/MD/VA)

Equal Opportunity Employer

Shift5 is committed to equal employment opportunity and affirmative action. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristics.

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