Staff AI/ML Software Engineer - Level 5

Northrop Grumman•Colorado Springs, CO
•$194,700 - $292,100•Onsite

About The Position

Northrop Grumman Space Systems’ Multi-Domain Operations and Missile Defense Integration Business Unit is hiring a Staff AI/ML Software Engineer to lead artificial intelligence and machine learning initiatives supporting the Threat and Advanced Simulation Development (TASD) contract. The contract supports multiple Missile Defense Agency directorates with a range of products and capabilities. The position is based at Schriever Space Force Base in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The AI/ML Lead defines and executes AI/ML strategy, builds and mentors an engineering and science team, and collaborates across functions to deliver AI-powered solutions. The role leads AI/ML projects through their full lifecycle, from problem definition and data collection through development, deployment, and monitoring, while promoting adoption of AI/ML in development pipelines. The successful candidate will guide technical direction and project delivery, communicate findings to technical and non-technical audiences, and encourage research and innovation. An active, in-scope U.S. Government Secret clearance is required at the time of application and to start. Limited travel of less than 10% is required.

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in a STEM discipline and 12 years of related experience, or a master’s degree and 10 years of related experience, or a Ph.D. and 8 years of experience. The posting describes the STEM bachelor’s degree as preferred.
  • Expertise in AI/ML techniques, including deep learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and reinforcement learning.
  • Strong programming skills in Python, R, or other relevant languages.
  • Experience with AI/ML frameworks and libraries such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn, and Keras.
  • Expertise with large language models/generative AI and prompt engineering, including use of LLM/GAI solutions for human-machine teaming in software development.
  • Proficiency in data mining, data analysis, and data visualization.
  • Experience with cloud computing platforms such as AWS, Azure, or GCP.
  • Experience with big data technologies such as Hadoop, Spark, and Hive.
  • Familiarity with DevOps practices and tools.
  • Excellent leadership and management skills.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a collaborative environment.
  • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • Ability to think strategically and execute tactically.
  • Excellent presentation skills.
  • Technical and team leadership experience.
  • Active, in-scope U.S. Government-issued Secret security clearance at the time of application; required to start.
  • Ability to travel on a limited basis, less than 10% of the time.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with high expectations, diverse assignments, and collaboration across all levels.

Nice To Haves

  • Experience in engineering and aerospace.
  • Publications in peer-reviewed AI/ML conferences or journals.
  • Experience with MLOps and deploying models at scale.
  • Experience with A/B testing and other methods for evaluating AI/ML model performance.
  • Experience working with sensitive data and following data privacy regulations.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and execute AI/ML strategy in alignment with business goals and objectives.
  • Drive adoption and integration of AI/ML into development pipelines.
  • Identify and evaluate emerging AI/ML technologies and trends and recommend adoption where appropriate.
  • Define and prioritize AI/ML projects based on impact, feasibility, and strategic priorities.
  • Create and maintain an AI/ML development roadmap that supports continuous improvement and innovation.
  • Lead the full lifecycle of AI/ML projects, from problem definition and data collection through model development, deployment, and monitoring.
  • Oversee the design, development, and implementation of AI/ML models and algorithms.
  • Ensure model quality and accuracy through testing and validation.
  • Collaborate with software engineering and DevOps teams to deploy models into production.
  • Monitor production model performance and identify opportunities for improvement.
  • Manage project budgets and timelines to support delivery on time and within budget.
  • Communicate AI/ML concepts and results to technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Present findings and recommendations to senior management and stakeholders.
  • Build relationships with internal and external partners.
  • Work with stakeholders to define problem statements and success metrics for AI/ML initiatives.
  • Keep current with AI/ML research and development and evaluate new techniques and tools.
  • Contribute to intellectual property through patents and publications.
  • Encourage and support team members pursuing research and innovation opportunities.
  • Build and mentor a team of AI/ML engineers and scientists.

Benefits

  • Health insurance coverage
  • Life insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • Savings plan
  • Company-paid holidays
  • Paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business
  • Employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus, depending on the position
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