Senior Computer Scientist

Mercer University•Warner Robins, GA

9d•Onsite

About The Position

Mercer Engineering Research Center (MERC), a research institute of Mercer University, provides engineering, scientific, and technical support services to government and private industry customers. The Senior Computer Scientist leads, designs, and performs detailed software development activities. The role covers software development from initial concept through design, coding, testing, and deployment, including complex system-level software and work involving multiple teams. It also includes technical leadership, mentoring, and application of theoretical principles to software and hardware solutions. The position is based at MERC in Warner Robins, Georgia, and is scheduled for 40 hours per week. The final rank will be determined based on the selected candidate’s qualifications.

Requirements

U.S. citizenship.
Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance.
One of the following education and experience combinations: an undergraduate degree in computer science and 9 years of directly related experience; a master’s degree in computer science and 8 years of directly related experience; or a Ph.D. in computer science and 3 years of directly related experience.
3 years of technical lead responsibility.
Ability to obtain certification in accordance with DoD 8140 series requirements.
Proficiency with Python, Java, JavaScript, jQuery, C#, and .NET frameworks, including MVC, Web Forms, and/or .NET Core.
Proficiency in secure coding practices.
Proficiency in database design principles and Structured Query Language (SQL).
Proficiency with the agile framework and software development life cycle.
Proficiency in developing testing strategies for components and/or applications.

Nice To Haves

Proficiency in TensorFlow, PyTorch, or similar libraries.
Experience building, fine-tuning, and deploying advanced models such as large language models, computer vision, or recommendation systems.
Experience designing scalable AI pipelines that integrate data ingestion, model training, and production deployment.
Familiarity with CI/CD for models and model versioning.
Skills in feature engineering, handling large datasets, and applying vector databases for semantic search.
Ability to interpret state-of-the-art AI research and implement findings in production systems.
Understanding of model explainability, bias mitigation, and ethical AI practices.
Strong communication skills for working with cross-functional teams and mentoring junior engineers in AI practices.
Familiarity with data manipulation, cleaning, and analysis.
Familiarity with Oracle or SQL Server.
Knowledge of MLOps and tools such as Docker and Kubernetes for productionizing models.
Familiarity with AWS, Google Cloud, or Azure for deploying, scaling, and managing AI models.

Responsibilities

Serve as an internal resource on structured programming techniques for software systems.
Lead program design reviews with customers.
Guide work from initial concept through design, coding, and testing to meet specifications.
Analyze algorithms and requirements for computational resources and architecture.
Lead teams developing software systems, including device drivers, kernel enhancements, and other system-level software.
Lead analysis, design, software development, and maintenance for highly complex systems.
Coach and mentor less experienced computer scientists and ensure adherence to design and coding standards and practices.
Lead development, testing, and integration of code for new or existing complex software involving multiple teams.
Stay current with applicable technical advancements.
Apply and adapt theoretical principles to develop computer software and/or hardware solutions.
Develop approaches to solve analytical problems and document methodologies.
Comply with Executive Director-approved MERC-wide policies and procedures.
Follow MERC MSP quality management policies and principles and promote continuous quality improvement.
Maintain familiarity with MERC core capabilities and identify opportunities to promote MERC capabilities and interests to customers and potential customers.
Submit suggestions for new business opportunities or report customer problems or opportunities to the Director of Acquisition Strategy through a Chief Engineer/Technical Director.