Machine Learning Software Developer

LLNL•Livermore, CA

20h•Hybrid

About The Position

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) is seeking a Machine Learning Software Developer to contribute to research and development efforts focused on securing software and firmware for critical national security systems, including industrial control systems. This role involves collaboration with the Federal government, manufacturers, and asset owners/operators. A key aspect of the position is leading or contributing to the creation of Large Language Model (LLM)-driven agents designed to enhance the understanding of supply chain threats to critical systems and networks. These positions are part of Global Security’s Energy and Homeland Security (E) Program and administratively within the Global Security Computing Applications Division (GS-CAD) of the Computing Directorate. The position can be filled at either the SES.2 or SES.3 level, depending on the candidate's qualifications and experience. Additional responsibilities will be assigned to those hired at the higher level. This role offers a hybrid work schedule, allowing for a blend of in-person and remote work, with the flexibility to work from home one or more days per week.

Requirements

Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance which requires U.S. citizenship.
Bachelor's degree in computer science, machine learning, computer engineering, artificial intelligence or related field, or an equivalent combination of technical education and relevant experience.
Experience with development of Reinforcement learning, Large Language Model frameworks, agentic AI, or Graph Neural Networks.
Experience in all aspects of software project life cycle: feasibility, requirements, design, implementation, integration, test and deployment.
Broad experience developing software with either Python, C++ or JAVA within Linux, UNIX, and/or Windows environments.
Ability to effectively manage concurrent technical tasks with competing priorities, along with the demonstrated ability to effectively change focus when necessary.
Proficient verbal and written communication skills to communicate comprehensive knowledge effectively across multi-disciplinary teams and to non-cyber experts, and advise senior management and/or external sponsors, and interpersonal skills necessary to effectively collaborate in a team environment.
Significant project leadership experience and ability to apply, lead and develop cutting-edge principles and research, working independently while effectively managing concurrent technical tasks with competing priorities (additional qualification at SES.3 level).
Significant experience creating technical directions and vision, writing research proposals, and securing sponsor funding (additional qualification at SES.3 level).
Significant experience in and knowledge of at least one of the following subject areas: Data collection techniques, Leading software engineering projects from architecture to maintenance, AI/ML agentic, MCP, or other LLM integrations, AI Model poisoning, OT/IoT system design, attack vectors, or hardening techniques (additional qualification at SES.3 level).
Advanced verbal and written communication skills necessary to present technical information, provide technical guidance, and interact effectively with management and external sponsors (additional qualification at SES.3 level).

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree with significant focus in cybersecurity, computer science, information technology, computer engineering, AI/ML, or a related field.
Knowledge of one or more of the following computer science disciplines: embedded systems, scientific data analysis, machine learning, systems programming, software engineering, formal verification methods, industrial control systems, or high-performance computing.
Ability to secure sponsor funding through winning proposals and sponsor relationships.
Previous experience working Department of Energy, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Defense, a utility, manufacturing, or hardware/software company, or a cybersecurity firm.

Responsibilities

Design, implement, deploy, and maintain software systems using object-oriented analysis, design, and programming techniques in Python.
Provide computer science, machine learning, or software development support to multitalented teams using industry-standard software development practices, modern programming languages, and operating systems.
Develop a range of LLM applications including scientific, graphical user interface, database, and visualization applications on UNIX platforms.
Participate in the requirements definition, analysis, design, implementation, debugging, testing, and optimization of computer programs on workstations.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Guide the development of novel software, firmware, and malware analysis tools leveraging LLM design strategies to better understand and mitigate threats to operational technology such as industrial control system malware (additional responsibility at SES.3 level).
Identify new applications and opportunities for and help create vision and technical direction for software capabilities for critical networks and infrastructure cybersecurity working with LLNL’s program leadership (additional responsibility at SES.3 level).
Develop new program growth opportunities through interactions with existing and potential sponsors and the development of research proposals (additional responsibility at SES.3 level).
Develop, drive, propose, and execute new ideas and approaches to meet existing and potential sponsor needs in order to attract and retain projects, programs, and funding (additional responsibility at SES.3 level).