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Ai Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

AI Application Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Customers and partners rely on Bigbear.ai's predictive analytics capabilities in highly complex, distributed, mission-based operating environments. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, BigBear.ai is a ...

AI Systems Engineer - Defense

Reston, VA · On-site +1

$40 - $60/hr

Background operating in fast-moving startup environments, mission-critical government settings, or ... Our AI tools are designed to complement, not replace, human decision-making. Disclaimer The ...

Background operating in fast-moving startup environments, mission-critical government settings, or ... Our AI tools are designed to complement, not replace, human decision-making. Disclaimer The ...

Background operating in fast-moving startup environments, mission-critical government settings, or ... Our AI tools are designed to complement, not replace, human decision-making. Disclaimer The ...

AI Systems Engineer - Defense

Mclean, VA · On-site +1

$40 - $60/hr

Background operating in fast-moving startup environments, mission-critical government settings, or ... Our AI tools are designed to complement, not replace, human decision-making. Disclaimer The ...

Background operating in fast-moving startup environments, mission-critical government settings, or ... Our AI tools are designed to complement, not replace, human decision-making. Disclaimer The ...

Background operating in fast-moving startup environments, mission-critical government settings, or ... Our AI tools are designed to complement, not replace, human decision-making. Disclaimer The ...

Background operating in fast-moving startup environments, mission-critical government settings, or ... Our AI tools are designed to complement, not replace, human decision-making. Disclaimer The ...

Background operating in fast-moving startup environments, mission-critical government settings, or ... Our AI tools are designed to complement, not replace, human decision-making. Disclaimer The ...

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Showing results 1-20

Ai Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$22

$36

How much do ai operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for ai operator in Virginia is $22.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $21.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an AI operator?

An AI Operator is responsible for managing, monitoring, and optimizing artificial intelligence systems to ensure they function efficiently and effectively. They work with machine learning models, troubleshoot AI-related issues, and oversee the deployment of AI-driven solutions. Their role often requires technical skills in data processing, software tools, and automation workflows to maintain system performance and reliability. AI Operators may collaborate with engineers and data scientists to enhance AI capabilities and implement improvements.

What does an AI operator do?

An AI Operator is responsible for monitoring and maintaining AI systems, ensuring their optimal performance and addressing any malfunctions or anomalies that arise. This often includes reviewing AI-generated outputs, troubleshooting technical issues, updating software, performing regular system health checks, and coordinating with data scientists, engineers, or end-users to meet operational goals. Many AI Operators work in a collaborative, team-based environment where timely communication and documentation are essential. The role may also involve reporting on system metrics, assisting with model retraining, and supporting the deployment of updates or improvements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an AI operator?

To thrive as an AI Operator, you need a foundational understanding of machine learning workflows, computer science principles, and proficiency with data processing, typically supported by a relevant technical degree or certification. Familiarity with AI management platforms, automated monitoring tools, and scripting languages like Python is highly valuable. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are important soft skills for this role. These capabilities ensure smooth AI system operations, rapid issue resolution, and effective collaboration within multidisciplinary teams.

How much does an AI operator make?

AI operators typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of tasks. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries.

How to become an AI operator?

To become an AI operator, you typically need a background in computer science, data analysis, or related fields, along with knowledge of AI and machine learning tools. Gaining experience with programming languages like Python and understanding AI frameworks such as TensorFlow or PyTorch is essential. Certifications in AI or data science can also enhance your qualifications for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Ai Operator jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Ai Operator jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Ai Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 66% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 30% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,519 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Subject Matter Expert

Millennium Enterprise Corporation

Fairfax, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

MEC is seeking a senior Artificial Intelligence (AI) Subject Matter Expert to lead and support enterprise AI strategy, governance, risk, and implementation planning for regulated public-sector and federally overseen organizations. The ideal candidate is an executive-level advisor who can translate emerging AI capabilities into practical, secure, compliant, and measurable business outcomes.

This role is assessment- and strategy-focused rather than software-development focused. The AI SME will evaluate organizational, workforce, technology, data, privacy, security, and governance readiness; design a target-state AI operating model; develop a multi-year implementation roadmap; assess generative and agentic AI opportunities and risks; recommend executable pilots; and brief senior executives and governance bodies.

Requirements

MEC is seeking a senior AI Subject Matter Expert with demonstrated experience developing enterprise AI strategy, governance, responsible AI frameworks, and implementation roadmaps, preferably within federal, public-sector, or highly regulated environments. The ideal candidate should be able to assess an organization's AI readiness, establish governance and operating models, evaluate Generative AI and Agentic AI opportunities and risks, and provide practical recommendations to executive leadership.

The candidate should have:

  • Proven experience with enterprise AI strategy, AI governance, and responsible AI
  • Experience developing multi-year AI roadmaps, operating models, policies, controls, and governance frameworks
  • Strong knowledge of Generative AI, Agentic AI, AI risk management, human oversight, bias, security, privacy, and compliance
  • Experience working in regulated or federally influenced environments
  • Familiarity with NIST AI RMF, NIST 800-53, FISMA, FedRAMP, and related federal security/privacy requirements
  • Experience conducting organizational, workforce, technology, and AI-readiness assessments
  • Strong executive advisory, presentation, workshop facilitation, and written communication skills
  • Ability to serve as named Key Personnel and support hybrid/on-site client meetings in the Washington, DC area
  • Ideally, experience with Microsoft Copilot / Microsoft 365 Copilot and enterprise AI adoption

Benefits

  • 401(k) Retirement Plan - All full-time employees are eligible to participate, and MEC provides a company match of up to 4% of employee contributions.
  • Health Insurance - Employees become eligible for medical, dental, and vision coverage after 30 days of continuous employment.
  • Paid Holidays - MEC observes 11 federal holidays each year.
  • Long-Term Disability Insurance - 100% employer-paid coverage provided by MEC.
  • Short-Term Disability Insurance - 100% employer-paid coverage provided by MEC.