AI Chief Engineer
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Job Description
    Seeking an experienced AI Chief Engineer to spearhead our AI and Machine Learning initiatives. This role involves leading the development, integration, and deployment of AI solutions that support complex defense operations. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of AI technologies and have a proven track record in leading teams to deliver innovative AI-driven systems. This is a unique opportunity to join a rapidly growing company that provides Artificial Intelligence systems and software engineering services and solutions to DoD clients. This role focuses on technical leadership that includes influencing the company's technical direction regarding AI solutions and product development. Given the start-up nature of our business, this role also requires flexibility to be able to conduct hands-on software development. This person will work with the Vice President of AI Solutions to rapidly identify, develop, and test AI products and technologies to support specific warfighting requirements. This role will also work with our senior, experienced military operations experts to provide technical expertise and develop AI solutions to support mission requirements. The company's AI portfolio spans retrieval augmented generation, constrained large language model (LLM) systems, knowledge graph deployments, explainable AI, and predictive analytics all delivered within classified and DoD-accredited cloud environments including Azure Government, AWS GovCloud, and Google Cloud. The Chief Engineer will lead these capabilities forward across Navy, Marine Corps, Army, Air Force, Space Force, and joint warfighting programs, serving as the company's foremost technical authority on AI system architecture and delivery.
Qualifications
    High energy individual looking for a fast-moving environment with incredible growth opportunity 8 years of experience architecting, designing, and developing technology solutions to include proven experience in developing AI solutions for defense or security applications. 3 years of experience in AI development, including machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing (NLP), neural networks, computer vision, etc. Demonstrated experience with large language model (LLM) integration and retrieval augmented generation (RAG) techniques within DoD or classified environments. Demonstrated experience deploying AI solutions within DoD-accredited cloud environments such as IL2/IL4/IL5+ platforms (Azure Government, AWS GovCloud, or Google Cloud). 3 years of work experience in a field of endeavor that demonstrates a high level of skill in software systems product development, tool development, software systems testing, or quality assurance. Demonstrated advanced capabilities in a systems programming language and a high-level scripting or analysis language, as well as knowledge of the capabilities and limitations of these languages. Experience leading small software development teams. Experience with software development methodologies such as Agile and DevOps. Lives in or near Washington DC, Huntsville AL or San Diego CA. Minimum 4-year degree in computer science, engineering, mathematics, science, or related fields. Software Engineering, Computer Science, software architecture and programming. Google Cloud Architect and/or other Google Cloud certifications are preferred. Desirable experience, knowledge, and skills include: Work in the fields of data analytics, data visualization, data storage management, or data transformation and description. Knowledge of mathematical modeling and algorithm development and implementation Skills in the development of web-based client-server software architectures and dynamic user interfaces for data-driven web visualization applications. Experience with AI frameworks like TensorFlow, PyTorch, or similar. Strong programming skills in Python, Java, or C++.
Experience & Knowledge
    Leadership & Strategy: Define and execute the strategic vision for AI/ML within IDS, aligning with the company's mission and objectives. Lead, mentor, and expand a team of AI engineers, data scientists, and researchers. Foster a culture of innovation, ensuring the team stays at the cutting edge of AI technology. Help shape the technical direction of our AI Solutions line of business. AI/ML Development: Oversee the architecture, design, development, and implementation of AI algorithms, models, and systems tailored to defense applications. Architect and lead the development of knowledge graph systems and constrained LLM solutions tailored to defense operations, ensuring all AI-generated outputs are explainable, traceable, and grounded in authoritative military knowledge sources. Drive the innovation of trusted AI solutions through experimentation, development, integration, and data acquisition. Work closely across teams to ensure AI solutions enhance interoperability, scalability, and performance. Project Management: Manage multiple AI projects from conception through to deployment, ensuring they meet technical standards, budget, and timelines. Stakeholder Engagement: Liaise with military, government agencies, and industry partners to understand requirements, present solutions, and gather feedback. Communicate complex AI concepts and project statuses to non-technical stakeholders effectively. Research and Development: Stay abreast of the latest developments in AI/ML, particularly those relevant to defense and security. Advocate for and integrate new AI technologies that can offer strategic advantages in defense scenarios. Compliance and Security: Ensure all AI development adheres to security protocols, privacy standards, and ethical AI use in defense contexts. Collaborate with security teams to protect AI systems against cyber threats.
Education
    BS Required, TOP SECRET CLEARANCE
Profile
   Location: Huntsville, AL
   Date Posted: 10.20.2026
   Contact Name: Gretchen Travis
   Contact Email: gretchen@faceforwardstaffing.com
   Contact Phone: 205-202-5692
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