Chief AI Architect – Department of War

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory•Washington, DC

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The National Security Directorate (NSD) at PNNL drives science-based, mission-focused solutions to address complex, real-world threats. The AI and Data Analytics Division within NSD combines domain expertise with advanced hardware and software to deliver computational solutions for complex data and analytic challenges. This division works in multidisciplinary teams, connecting foundational research to engineering and operations to enable rapid innovation and deployment of tools. Their strengths cover the entire data analytics lifecycle, from acquisition and management to analysis and decision support. This role is part of a 400+ member team with expertise in AI, data science, software engineering, applied mathematics, advanced analytic architectures, and human-centered computing.

Requirements

PhD and 5 years of Software Engineering experience -OR- MS/MA and 7 years of Software Engineering experience -OR- BS/BA and 9 years of Software Engineering experience -OR- AA and 18 years of Software Engineering experience in designing, architecting, programming, deploying, and automating software solutions in support of scientific research or consumer digital product development -OR- HS/GED and 20 years of Software Engineering experience in designing, architecting, programming, deploying, and automating software solutions in support of scientific research or consumer digital product development
Demonstrated experience advising senior government or defense stakeholders on AI strategy, technology evaluation, and vendor selection.
U.S. Citizenship
Ability to obtain and maintain a federal security clearance.
Must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified matter in accordance with 10 CFR 710, Appendix B.
Must be able to demonstrate non-use of illegal drugs, including marijuana, for the 12 consecutive months preceding completion of the requisite Questionnaire for National Security Positions (QNSP).
Must pass a drug test prior to commencing employment.
Must successfully complete the applicable tier of federal background investigation post hire and receive a favorable federal adjudication.
Must disclose any affiliation with the government of a country DOE has identified as a “country of risk” and recuse yourself or receive approval from DOE and Battelle prior to employment.

Nice To Haves

Proven ability to lead impactful AI research and engineering agendas and multidisciplinary teams.
Demonstrated expertise in the design, architecture, and deployment of enterprise AI systems in real-world, mission-critical applications.
Recognized national authority in AI and machine learning, with strong networks across academia, industry, and government.
Experience developing enterprise AI governance, roadmaps, and implementation plans.
Exceptional track record of technical products, publications, and influential AI applications.
Experience applying AI to defense, energy systems, or other complex mission domains.
Skilled communicator, adept at engaging senior executives, sponsors, and diverse audiences.

Responsibilities

Serve as an embedded technical authority at a Department of War (DOW) sponsor location in the Washington, DC area, providing expert guidance on the architecture, evaluation, and implementation of artificial intelligence across the sponsor's organization.
Act as the sponsor's trusted advisor—reviewing AI proposals, technologies, strategies, and vendors.
Devise, implement, and oversee enterprise AI strategies and efforts aligned to mission priorities.
Bridge cutting-edge AI innovation with real-world national security applications, helping the sponsor make informed decisions about AI adoption, integration, and governance.
Build partnerships across academia, industry, government, and other DOE National Laboratories, positioning PNNL at the forefront of AI innovation in support of defense missions.
Architect AI Solutions – Design enterprise-scale AI architectures and reference frameworks tailored to the DOW sponsor's mission needs.
Advise the Sponsor – Serve as the embedded expert providing authoritative advice on how to architect and implement AI across the sponsor organization.
Evaluate Technologies & Vendors – Review potential AI proposals, technologies, strategies, and vendors, providing objective, technically grounded assessments.
Devise & Oversee Strategy – Develop, implement, and oversee AI strategies and initiatives for the DOW organization, ensuring alignment with operational and security objectives.
Guide Investments – Work closely with the sponsor to define priorities, guide investments, and influence long-term AI agendas.
Engage Senior Leaders – Engage seniors leaders at the DOW organization to provide expert advice and presentations.
Deeply Understand Sponsor Mission – Work closely with the sponsor to understand their missions and how AI could be leverage to enhance their capabilities.