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Cognitive Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior RPA UIPath Developer

Herndon, VA · Remote

$56 - $74/hr

D i gital is an independent Digital Automation & Cognitive Engineering company that integrates best-of-breed technologies to accelerate business impact. Our Core Values help us in our mission. They ...

Apply core Cognitive Systems Engineering (CSE) methodologies to analyze human-workflow friction, interface directly with complex technical product teams, and design seamless human-machine adoption ...

Apply core Cognitive Systems Engineering (CSE) methodologies to analyze human-workflow friction, interface directly with complex technical product teams, and design seamless human-machine adoption ...

Apply core Cognitive Systems Engineering (CSE) methodologies to analyze human-workflow friction, interface directly with complex technical product teams, and design seamless human-machine adoption ...

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Cognitive Engineering information

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$46.5K

$146.9K

$174K

How much do cognitive engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for cognitive engineering in the United States is $146,868.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Cognitive Engineering position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cognitive Engineer, a strong background in psychology, human factors, computer science, or related fields is essential, often supported by a relevant degree. Proficiency in human-computer interaction (HCI) tools, usability testing software, and cognitive modeling platforms is highly valued, as are certifications like Certified Professional Ergonomist (CPE). Exceptional problem-solving abilities, analytical thinking, and effective communication set top performers apart in this field. These skills and qualities are critical for designing systems and products that align with human cognitive capabilities, ensuring both safety and usability.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data engineering, or systems engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries like technology or finance. Roles often require advanced certifications, leadership responsibilities, or working in high-cost-of-living areas.

What are the typical daily tasks and work environment for a Cognitive Engineer?

Cognitive Engineers typically spend their days analyzing user behaviors, designing user interfaces, creating cognitive models, and collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams such as software developers, product managers, and UX designers. Much of the work involves conducting user research, running usability studies, and iteratively improving products based on data-driven insights. Work environments can range from tech companies to research institutions, often with opportunities for remote or hybrid schedules. Teamwork is a significant aspect of the role, as Cognitive Engineers often bridge the gap between technical development and user needs. This setting fosters ongoing professional learning and provides a clear path toward roles in user experience leadership or advanced human factors research.

Is cognitive science a high paying major?

Cognitive engineering is a specialized field that often involves skills in psychology, computer science, and neuroscience. While salaries vary based on experience and industry, professionals with expertise in cognitive science or cognitive engineering can earn competitive wages, especially with advanced degrees or certifications. However, it is generally not considered among the highest-paying majors compared to fields like engineering or computer science.

What is a Cognitive Engineering job?

A Cognitive Engineering job involves designing and optimizing systems that enhance human decision-making, problem-solving, and interaction with technology. Professionals in this field apply principles from psychology, artificial intelligence, and human factors engineering to improve user experiences and system efficiency. They work in domains like healthcare, aviation, autonomous systems, and AI-driven applications. The goal is to create intuitive and intelligent systems that complement human cognitive abilities and reduce errors.

What does a cognitive engineer do?

A cognitive engineer designs and develops systems that mimic or support human thought processes, often working on artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, and user experience. They analyze cognitive models, utilize tools like simulation software, and may require knowledge of psychology, computer science, and engineering principles.

How much do cognitive engineers make?

Cognitive engineers typically earn a median salary ranging from $80,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. They often work with AI, machine learning, and data analysis tools, and advanced skills can lead to higher compensation.
More about Cognitive Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Cognitive Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Cognitive Engineering job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cognitive Engineering jobs? The most popular types of Cognitive Engineering jobs are:
What states have the most Cognitive Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Cognitive Engineering jobs include:
Infographic showing various Cognitive Engineering job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $146,868 per year, or $70.6 per hour.
AVP Cognitive Engineering (Generative AI)

AVP Cognitive Engineering (Generative AI)

INSPYR Solutions

Vienna, VA • On-site

$180K - $232K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Title: Assistant Vice President (AVP) of Cognitive Engineering
Location: Vienna, VA, hybrid.
Duration: Direct Placement
Work Requirements: US Citizen, GC Holders or Authorized to Work in the U.S.
Assistant Vice President (AVP) of Cognitive Engineering
The Assistant Vice President (AVP) of Cognitive Engineering is a senior leader within the Enterprise Data and Information Management (EDIM) organization, responsible for shaping and executing strategy for data science, advanced analytics, and applied artificial intelligence (AI). This key role leads the AI Center for Enablement, driving innovation, operational excellence, and the development of scalable AI capabilities. AVP plays a pivotal role in fostering a culture of AI-as-a-service, enabling business units to harness AI technologies effectively and realize measurable value from AI investments.
In collaboration with business stakeholders, technology partners, and cross-functional teams, the AVP oversees the design and implementation of an enterprise AI platform, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and governance standards. This leader brings deep expertise in cognitive technologies-such as Machine Learning, Natural Language Processing, Generative AI and Agentic AI-and is responsible for identifying emerging trends, guiding technology adoption, and transitioning AI solutions from incubation to enterprise-wide deployment. The AVP serves as a catalyst for innovation, talent development, and cross-functional collaboration across the organization.
Responsibilities:
  • Define and lead the strategic vision for Cognitive AI, Generative AI, Agentic AI, and Machine Learning capabilities, ensuring alignment with enterprise goals and transformation initiatives.
  • Provide executive oversight for the AI Center for Enablement, ensuring its services, platforms, and talent strategy drive enterprise-wide AI adoption, innovation, and measurable business value.
  • Oversee the development and enterprise-scale implementation of AI platforms, including the AI Foundational Platform, in collaboration with Enterprise Architecture, Cloud Engineering, and external technology partners.
  • Partners with senior leaders across business and IT to identify high-impact AI use cases, shape technology roadmaps, and accelerate the transition of AI solutions from incubation to production.
  • Champion the establishment of governance frameworks that ensure the ethical, secure, and explainable use of AI technologies, working closely with Model Risk Management, Cybersecurity, and the AI Working Group.
  • Lead the evaluation and infusion of emerging technologies in Cognitive Sciences, LLMs, NLP, Generative AI and Agentic AI through structured research, prototyping, and enterprise roadmap development.
  • Build and maintain strategic partnerships with leading AI vendors, cloud providers, and consulting firms to accelerate capability development and deliver tangible outcomes for members and internal stakeholders.
  • Accelerate use of AI capabilities and toolset across the enterprise delivering productivity and driving process efficiencies for the workforce.
  • Deliver the AI Literacy program across all organization levels in collaboration with industry partners and the Talent Development team.
  • Develop and scale high-performing AI Engineering and Operations teams, fostering a culture of continuous learning, technical excellence, and cross-functional collaboration.
  • Establish enterprise-level success metrics for AI initiatives, ensuring measurable impact, high adoption, and alignment with EDIM and enterprise architecture standards.
  • Enable federated AI development by supporting communities of practice and democratizing access to AI tools and services, driving process efficiencies and innovation across the organization.
  • Drive execution excellence by overseeing project planning, resource allocation, and budget management for AI initiatives.
  • Apply Scaled Agile principles to ensure timely delivery, iterative value realization, and alignment with enterprise priorities.

Qualifications and Education Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, Statistics, Mathematics, or a related technical field- advanced degree preferred.
  • 15+ years of progressive experience in AI, Data Science and Advanced Analytics including leadership of enterprise-scale Generative and Agentic AI initiatives in complex, multi-functional environments.
  • Proven track record in designing, deploying, and scaling AI solutions-including LLMs, Agentic AI, and prompt engineering-within cloud-native, production-grade environments.
  • Deep expertise in AI platforms and technologies, including Azure OpenAI, Cognitive Services, and operationalizing AI infrastructure such as Model Garden and Control Plane.
  • Demonstrated ability to align AI strategy with enterprise transformation goals, delivering measurable business value through innovation, automation, and productivity acceleration.
  • Strong background in cloud architecture, system design, and building scalable, secure, and resilient AI platforms in service-oriented environments.
  • Experience in delivering AI augmented capabilities to generate productivity and process efficiencies (Github, CoPilot, IBM Watsonx, or similar).
  • Demonstrated ability to drive an AI Literacy program covering stakeholders at all levels in the organization by tailoring and evolving the curriculum relevantly.
  • Experience leading high-performing AI Engineering and Operations teams, fostering a culture of continuous learning, agile delivery, and technical excellence.
  • Extensive experience with AIOps practices including MLOps, building and managing end-to-end AI pipelines, implementing observability frameworks, monitoring model performance in production, managing incidents, and applying automated remediation techniques to ensure reliability, scalability, and compliance of AI systems.
  • Practical experience applying Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) and Agile delivery principles to manage complex AI programs, budgets, and cross-functional execution.
  • Exceptional communication and executive presentation skills, with the ability to translate complex AI concepts into strategic insights for technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Desired Qualifications and Education Requirements:
  • Master's or Ph.D. in computer science, Data Science, Data Analytics, Statistics, Mathematics or related technical field.
  • Knowledge of instructions, standards, and procedures.
  • Expert knowledge of banking/financial industry trends, products, and services.
  • Expert knowledge of products, services, programs, policies and procedures.
  • Experience leading an AI Center for Enablement.
  • Experience building and supporting Enterprise grade APIs.

NOTES from Hiring Manager Call:
  • Needs Gen AI and Agentic AI experience. AI should be a major focus of their work, not just a piece.
  • Has 15+ years overall exp, significant people management exp (including "managing managers" exp).
  • Excellent C-level communication skills.
  • Managed a budget.
  • Must be located in Vienna, VA for 3 days a week in office every week

About INSPYR Solutions
As a leading technology solutions company, we connect top IT talent with clients to provide innovative business solutions through our IT Staffing, Professional Services, and Infrastructure Solutions divisions. There are four elements that set us apart and serve as pillars of our company philosophy: Quality, Expertise, People, and Relationships. By always striving for excellence in these areas and focusing on the human aspect of our business, we work seamlessly together with our talent and clients to match the right solutions to the right opportunities. Learn more about us at inspyrsolutions.com.
INSPYR Solutions provides Equal Employment Opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, INSPYR Solutions complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities.
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