Lead Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning Engineer

Cherokee Federal•Reston, VA

About The Position

This position requires an active TS/Sensitive Compartmental Information (SCI) clearance with the ability to obtain a Counterintelligence polygraph to be considered. Cherokee Preting is looking for a Lead AI / ML Engineer to support the Defense Intelligence Agency’s (DIA) Analytic Innovation Office. The AI / ML Engineer will support the delivery of end-to-end expertise for designing, developing, sustaining and modernizing mission-critical capabilities for the Chief Information Officer Enterprise Services Division (CIO 7) and Digital Modernization Accelerator (DMA) initiatives. Please Note: This position is pending a contract award. If you are interested in a future with Cherokee Federal, APPLY TODAY! Although this is not an approved position, we are accepting applications for this future and anticipated need.

Requirements

Must have at least eight (8) years’ experience demonstrating and leading AI/ML implementation projects and establishing AI operations environments.
Must have a Master’s degree in Computer Science, Data Science, or a related field is required.
Able to work independently with limited oversight
Experience leading small teams, strategic planning and mentoring junior staff
Must possess an active TS/SCI Clearance
Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal

Responsibilities

Provides technical leadership for AI/ML development efforts under optional DMA and CIO7 tasks.
Leads design, development, and deployment of advanced AI/ML capabilities including agentic AI systems.
Ensure AI/ML systems comply with DIA Quality Assurance Framework (QAF) requirements.
Conducts model validation, bias testing, and performance optimization.
Coordinates with data scientists, software engineers, and mission stakeholders.
Stays current with emerging AI/ML technologies and recommends innovative solutions to mission challenges.