Associate AI Software Engineer/ AI Software Engineer
The AI Software Engineer at Confidential Client will develop and deploy advanced AI and machine learning models, including large language models and computer vision applications, to support cutting-edge defense technologies. This role involves designing algorithms for prediction, optimization, and classification, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and ensuring responsible and explainable AI solutions within secure environments requiring active security clearances.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Defense and Space Manufacturing.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Position Overview
This confidential client is seeking an Associate AI Software Engineer / AI Software Engineer to join their C2 & Weapons Integration AI team in Beavercreek, OH. You will work on applied research and production software involving LLMs, NLP/NLU/NLG, computer vision, sensor and data fusion, and explainable/responsible AI. This is a full-time position that may require travel (~10%) and has government clearance requirements (Secret minimum).
What You’ll Do
- Define, develop, and deliver mathematical and statistical models and algorithms for prediction, optimization, and classification.
- Implement and evaluate machine learning (ML) solutions on large structured and unstructured datasets for autonomy, pattern recognition, target detection/tracking, decision support, signal processing, and robotics.
- Design, develop, test, document, debug, and deploy AI/ML applications and services.
- Integrate AI/ML models into applications and production environments, collaborating with cross-functional teams (software engineers, systems engineers, operators).
- Prepare and present technical progress and results to internal and external stakeholders.
- Apply best practices for responsible and explainable AI in model design and evaluation.
Basic Qualifications
(Your level will be assessed during screening. Replace any company-specific name references with "confidential client" during interviews.)
- Associate (Level 1): Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related STEM field with 0 years experience (or equivalent experience in lieu of degree).
- AI Software Engineer (Level 2): Bachelor’s degree + 2 years’ relevant experience, or Master’s degree with 0 years’ experience (or equivalent experience in lieu of degree).
- Experience implementing AI/ML models or algorithms (e.g., deep learning, transformer models, LLMs).
- Proficiency with at least one major AI/ML framework: PyTorch, TensorFlow, Keras, or Scikit‑learn.
- Practical experience working with ML data pipelines: data preparation, training, validation, and model evaluation.
- Software development skills in Python (or similar), including source control (e.g., Git).
- Experience building or integrating AI/ML functionality into applications or services.
- Active Secret security clearance required at start; ability to obtain TS/SCI with CI Poly is required for some positions.
- U.S. Citizenship may be required for positions that need government clearance.
Preferred Qualifications
- Active TS/SCI with CI Poly.
- Experience with AWS or other commercial cloud platforms.
- Experience with microservice architectures, containerization, and orchestration (Docker, Kubernetes).
- Familiarity with explainable AI, adversarial AI, active learning, and third‑wave AI approaches.
- Knowledge of DevOps/DevSecOps and MLOps workflows.
- Familiarity with Linux-based systems.
- Hands-on experience with LLMs (prompt engineering, fine-tuning, quantization, or related development frameworks).
- Experience with simulation/modeling, vector or graph databases.
- Ability to work independently to plan and execute technical tasks.
Compensation & Benefits
- Primary Level Salary Range: $83,800.00 - $125,800.00 (annual)
- Secondary Level Salary Range: $101,000.00 - $151,400.00 (annual)
The ranges above are guidelines; final offers consider experience, education, skills, and market conditions. Eligible employees may also receive overtime, shift differential, discretionary and annual bonuses, and long-term incentives for senior roles. Typical benefits include medical, life and disability insurance, retirement/savings plans, paid holidays, and paid time off (PTO). Relocation assistance may be available for some positions.
Workplace & Legal Notes
- This role is based in Beavercreek, OH (on-site or as specified by the confidential client).
- Travel: approximately 10% of the time.
- Clearance: Secret clearance required to start; some roles require TS/SCI with CI Poly.
- Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities. If you need accommodation during the hiring process, please let Careertakes know.
What We Look For in Candidates
- Strong applied ML/AI fundamentals, with hands-on coding and model deployment experience.
- Clear communication skills—able to present technical results to diverse stakeholders.
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and to integrate ML into larger systems.
- Intellectual curiosity, attention to detail, and a commitment to responsible AI practices.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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