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Ai Software Developer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

AI Software Engineer - SME

Chantilly, VA ยท Hybrid

$185K - $240K/yr

Dark Wolf is seeking an AI Software Engineer Subject Matter Expert (SME) to architect, lead, and execute complex, high-assurance AI/ML engineering initiatives. As the primary technical authority, you ...

New

AI/Software Engineer - SME

Herndon, VA ยท On-site

$140 - $220/hr

/AI/Software Engineer - SME# AI/Software Engineer - SMERed Rock Government ServicesHerndon, USFull-time## About the RoleRed Rock Government Services is a leading software engineering company ...

AI Software Engineer - SME

Herndon, VA ยท On-site

$185K - $240K/yr

Dark Wolf is seeking an AI Software Engineer Subject Matter Expert (SME) to architect, lead, and execute complex, high-assurance AI/ML engineering initiatives. As the primary technical authority, you ...

Lead AI Software Engineer Employment Type: Contract-to-Hire Clearance Requirement: Candidates must be eligible to obtain and maintain a Federal or DoD Public Trust. Approved adjudication is required ...

Senior AI Software Engineer

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$138K - $182K/yr

Expression is seeking an experienced Senior AI Software Engineer and Technical Lead to lead the development of a prototype platform that performs intelligent data processing, distributed inference ...

Lead AI Software Engineer Employment Type: Contract-to-Hire Clearance Requirement: Candidates must be eligible to obtain and maintain a Federal or DoD Public Trust. Approved adjudication is required ...

AI Software Engineer, Senior

Laurel, MD ยท On-site

$86.80 - $198/hr

AI Software Engineer, Senior The Opportunity As an AI software engineer, you know that good ... Experience with AI or LLM-powered developer tools, including chat-based interfaces or automated ...

AI Software Engineer The Opportunity: As an artificial intelligence (AI)software engineer, you know that goodsoftware is more than just a nice-looking interface and data. Today, you need to develop ...

We're looking for an experienced AI Software Engineer with 6-8 years of experience to join our AI applications team. This is a fully remote position for candidates in the continental U.S., with work ...

AI Software Engineer

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$86K - $198K/yr

R0247491 AI Software Engineer The Opportunity: As an artificial intelligence (AI) sof tware engineer, you know that good sof tware is more than just a nice-looking interface and data. Today, you need ...

AI Software Engineer, Senior

Laurel, MD ยท On-site

$86K - $198K/yr

AI Software Engineer, Senior The Opportunity: As an AI software engineer, you know that good ... Security+, Linux+, or DevOps-related Certification Clearance: Applicants selected will be subject ...

AI Software Engineer, Senior

Laurel, MD ยท On-site

$122K - $160K/yr

... DevOps-related Certification Company : Booz Allen Hamilton is a consulting firm that specializes in analytics, technology, and engineering. Founded in 1914, the company is headquartered in Mclean ...

AI Software Engineer, Senior

Laurel, MD ยท On-site

$122K - $160K/yr

... DevOps-related Certification Company : Booz Allen Hamilton is a consulting firm that specializes in analytics, technology, and engineering. Founded in 1914, the company is headquartered in Mclean ...

Showing results 21-40

Ai Software Developer information

See Washington salary details

$54.4K

$126.7K

$188K

How much do ai software developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for ai software developer in Washington is $126,675.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,900.00 and $147,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an AI software developer?

An AI Software Developer designs, develops, and implements artificial intelligence solutions, such as machine learning models, neural networks, and automation tools. They work with algorithms, big data, and programming languages like Python to build intelligent applications. Their responsibilities include data preprocessing, model training, testing, and deploying AI systems for various industries.

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

To thrive as an AI Software Developer, you need strong programming skills in languages such as Python or Java, a background in computer science or a related field, and a solid understanding of machine learning algorithms. Familiarity with frameworks like TensorFlow, PyTorch, and experience with data processing tools or cloud platforms is highly valued, while certifications in AI or machine learning can be advantageous. Creative problem-solving, collaboration, and effective communication are key soft skills that help you integrate complex solutions and work effectively within multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are crucial for developing, deploying, and maintaining innovative AI systems that deliver real-world value.

What are some common challenges faced by AI software developers in day-to-day work?

AI Software Developers often encounter challenges such as ensuring data quality and quantity, tuning complex models for optimal performance, and integrating AI components seamlessly into existing software systems. Balancing the need for accuracy with computational efficiency while addressing issues of scalability and maintainability can also be demanding. Additionally, they must continuously stay updated with rapidly evolving AI technologies and best practices. Overcoming these challenges requires adaptability, a passion for continuous learning, and close collaboration with data scientists, product managers, and other engineers.

How much do AI software developers make?

AI software developers typically earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in machine learning and deep learning can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $200,000. Compensation also varies based on certifications, education, and the complexity of projects handled.

Will AI take AI software developer jobs?

AI software developers create and maintain AI systems, and their roles are less likely to be fully replaced by AI itself. Instead, AI tools can augment their work by automating routine tasks, allowing developers to focus on complex problem-solving and innovation. Continuous learning of programming languages, machine learning frameworks, and staying updated on AI advancements are important for job security in this field.
Infographic showing various Ai Software Developer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,675 per year, or $60.9 per hour.

AI Software Engineer - SME

Dark Wolf Solutions

Chantilly, VA โ€ข Hybrid

$185K - $240K/yr

Full-time, Contractor

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Dark Wolf constructs and deploys data management and analytics solutions for the defense and intelligence communities. We're proud to boast a world-class engineering team that thrives on rolling up their sleeves to solve your mission's biggest challenges.
Dark Wolf is seeking an AI Software Engineer Subject Matter Expert (SME) to architect, lead, and execute complex, high-assurance AI/ML engineering initiatives. As the primary technical authority, you will drive enterprise-scale architectural vision, design novel AI systems, oversee multi-cloud and air-gapped infrastructure, and advise key government stakeholders on high-impact AI strategies.

Key Responsibilities

  • Architect and lead the end-to-end technical execution of enterprise-scale AI software systems.
  • Serve as the principal technical authority on novel AI frameworks, LLMs, and high-assurance ML capabilities.
  • Define enterprise security standards and mandate security scanning tool integrations across complex systems.
  • Set the strategic vision for multi-cloud, hybrid, and air-gapped infrastructure design.
  • Interface directly with executive and agency leadership to align software engineering roadmaps with high-priority mission objectives.

Qualifications:

  • Clearance: Must be a US Citizen holding an active TS/SCI security clearance with an active Full-Scope Polygraph.
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or a related technical field (Master's degree preferred).
  • Experience: 15+ years of software engineering experience.

Technical Competencies:

  • AI Frameworks: Enterprise AI ecosystem architecture, framework governance, and strategic platform selection.
  • AI Models: Architecting novel model architectures, fine-tuning strategies, and deployment of LLMs in air-gapped environments.
  • Machine Learning: Enterprise MLOps architecture, governance, lifecycle management, and scalable ML operations.
  • Programming & Scripting: Polyglot mastery across high-performance languages (Python, C++, Go) and system optimization.
  • Containerization: Enterprise multi-cluster architecture, zero-trust container security, and orchestration strategy.
  • Agile Frameworks: Strategic Agile leadership, enterprise scaling frameworks, and organizational Agile transformation.
  • Multi-Cloud Architecture: Hybrid, multi-cloud, and secure air-gapped enterprise cloud architecture design.
  • Security Scanning Tooling: Enterprise DevSecOps security posture, compliance authority, and vulnerability remediation leadership.

Desired Qualifications:

  • Advanced Certifications: AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Kubernetes Certified Administrator (CKA), or specialized AI/ML certifications.
  • Deep understanding of high-assurance software engineering, zero-trust architecture, and classified deployment constraints.

Position Clearance Requirement:

US Citizenship with an active TS/SCI security clearance with Full-Scope Polygraph


Location:
Chantilly/Herndon, VA.

Target Salary Range: $185,000.00 – $240,000.00+ (Commensurate with specialized expertise and technical skillset).


Equal Opportunity Employer:

We are proud to be an EEO/AA employer Minorities/Women/Veterans/Disabled and other protected categories.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

We are strictly looking for direct, full-time W2 employees. We do not engage with third-party staffing agencies, C2C, or 1099 independent contractors for this role.