AI Software Engineer

$160K–$200K+ Offers For Graduates ^{$160K–$200K+ Offers For Graduates} 

Gauntlet for America is a selective, fully funded 10-week fellowship that develops AI-native engineering talent for the U.S. federal government.

This is a rigorous, high-intensity program for experienced engineers ready to prove their ability to design, build, and deploy production-grade AI systems in contexts where security, reliability, and measurable impact are non-negotiable.

Fellows deliver work weekly under continuous evaluation and train in cohorts of high-caliber engineers. Graduates who complete the program successfully transition into federal GS-12 engineering positions (~$150K + comprehensive federal benefits), contributing to systems that shape government operations.

The program structure is 10 weeks: an initial 3 weeks conducted remotely, then 7 weeks onsite in Austin, Texas. Participants should anticipate an intensive workload (80–100 hours/week) engineered to accelerate skill acquisition, performance visibility, and long-term career impact.

Program Outcomes:

• 10+ production-grade AI systems delivered throughout the fellowship
• Guaranteed placement into a federal engineering position (GS-12 equivalent, ~$160K–$200K+ based on experience + full benefits)
• Hands-on work on high-stakes systems influencing U.S. government technology strategy and execution
• Access to a professional network of AI-native engineers leading innovation in the public sector