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Artificial Intelligence Systems Engineer Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Sr Staff Systems Engineer

Morrisville, NC · Hybrid

$184K - $289K/yr

The Intelligence Systems Division, a division within Northrop Grumman's Space Systems Sector is known for pushing the boundaries of innovation, redefining engineering capabilities, and driving ...

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Artificial Intelligence Systems Engineer information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$52K

$123.7K

$162.3K

How much do artificial intelligence systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for artificial intelligence systems engineer in Raleigh, NC is $123,663.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,300.00 and $152,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an artificial intelligence systems engineer do?

An Artificial Intelligence Systems Engineer designs, develops, and integrates AI systems into software and hardware environments. Their responsibilities include building machine learning models, deploying AI algorithms, optimizing system performance, and ensuring the scalability and reliability of AI solutions. They often collaborate with data scientists, software engineers, and product teams to bring AI-powered features to various applications. Additionally, they may work on setting up data pipelines, monitoring system health, and maintaining the security and ethical standards of AI systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an artificial intelligence systems engineer?

To thrive as an Artificial Intelligence Systems Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science, machine learning, and mathematics, typically supported by a relevant degree and experience in AI model development. Proficiency with programming languages like Python, frameworks such as TensorFlow or PyTorch, and cloud platforms like AWS or Azure is essential, along with knowledge of data engineering tools. Strong problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and effective communication skills set standout professionals apart in this role. These skills enable the development, deployment, and optimization of AI solutions that drive business value and innovation.

What are some common challenges faced by artificial intelligence systems engineers when deploying AI models into production environments?

Artificial Intelligence Systems Engineers often encounter challenges related to integrating AI models into existing systems, ensuring scalability, and maintaining robust performance in production. Issues such as data pipeline inconsistencies, model drift, and the need to monitor for bias or unexpected outputs require continuous attention. Collaborating closely with data scientists, software engineers, and IT professionals is crucial to address these challenges and to ensure the AI solutions are reliable and aligned with business needs. Staying updated with best practices in MLOps can also help streamline deployment processes and minimize operational issues.

What is the difference between Artificial Intelligence Systems Engineer vs Data Scientist?

AspectArtificial Intelligence Systems EngineerData Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or master's in CS, AI, or related fields; certifications in AI/MLBachelor's or master's in CS, Statistics, or related fields; certifications in data analysis or ML
Work EnvironmentDevelops AI systems, algorithms, and integrations; collaborates with engineering teamsAnalyzes data, builds models, and provides insights; works closely with business units
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, AI startups, R&D departmentsFinance, healthcare, marketing, tech firms

While both roles require expertise in machine learning and programming, Artificial Intelligence Systems Engineers focus on designing and implementing AI systems and infrastructure, whereas Data Scientists primarily analyze data and develop models to extract insights. The roles often overlap but differ in their core responsibilities and work environments.

Infographic showing various Artificial Intelligence Systems Engineer job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,663 per year, or $59.5 per hour.

Staff Research Scientist - Artificial Intelligence Engineer

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

The Analytical and Spatial Intelligence Research Team (ASIRT) at Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is seeking scientists/researchers interested in developing artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and computer vision software to solve challenging problems for the US defense and intelligence communities. We perform fundamental and applied research in many open areas, including GenAI, Agentic AI Systems, Large Language Models (LLMs), Vision Language Models (VLMs), backbone fine tuning, AI explainability, adversarial attacks and World Models. We are a close-knit team of creative thinkers from diverse backgrounds who collaborate to find non-standard solutions to challenging problems. We encourage candidates with a creative and entrepreneurial spirit who seek a research career within a stable industry to apply.
Staff Research Scientist - Artificial Intelligence Engineer Position Highlights:
  • Research, develop, test and deploy artificial intelligence, machine learning and computer vision software.
  • Process and integrate data from different sources, including satellites, unmanned aerial vehicles, ground vehicles, human-wearables, and smart devices
  • Enjoy a challenging technical career with opportunities for personal growth
  • Team player able to communicate technical results effectively to others
  • Position is located in the Raleigh, NC metropolitan area

Staff Research Scientist - Artificial Intelligence Engineer Position Required Experience & Skills:
  • US citizenship required (green card holders are not eligible for this position)
  • Eligibility to apply for and hold a U.S. security clearance (selected applicants will undergo a security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements at the time of employment)
  • BS Degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or similar technical field along with 2-4 years of experience OR MS degree with 0-2 years of experience
  • Strong foundation and experience using AI/ML frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch) and software libraries (jax, scikit-learn, hugging-face, ollama, langchain, langgraph, or similar)
  • Experience in software development in Python and C/C++
  • Solid mathematical background in linear algebra and probability theory
  • Experience working with AWS cloud computing
  • Experience with collaborative software development and version control (Git)
  • Proficiency in one of the following areas: mathematics, physics, robotics, sensor fusion, machine learning, computer vision or signal processing

Staff Research Scientist - Artificial Intelligence Engineer Position Desirable Experience & Skills:
  • Experience working with AWS, S3, Docker and Kubernetes
  • Experience developing software for execution on edge devices (GPUs, mobile phones, deployed CPU)
  • Experience working with and flying Class I unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)
  • Experience writing technical proposals
  • Experience working on intelligence and DoD programs

Who is ARA?
Do you want to work for a purpose? Applied Research Associates, Inc. (aka ARA) is an employee-owned international research and engineering company. We have been providing technically superior solutions to complex and challenging problems in the physical sciences since 1979. ARA has over 2,226 employee-owners and continues to grow rapidly. Together, our offices throughout the U.S. and Canada provide a broad range of technical expertise in defense, civil, and health technologies, computer software and simulation, systems analysis, environmental technologies, and testing and measurement.
ARA also prides itself, on having a challenging culture where innovation & experimentation are the norm. The motto, "Engineering and Science for Fun and Profit" sums up the ARA experience. Employee ownership ensures you have a voice in what happens in the company.
To find out more about what the Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance Division has to offer, visit our website at: https://www.ara.com/benefits/
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.