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Senior Algorithm Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Engineer, AI & ML

Richmond, VA · On-site

$103K - $142K/yr

About this job At CarMax, a Senior Engineer, Artificial Intelligence is a technologist with domain ... Data Science Libraries and Algorithms (TensorFlow, Scikit, PyTorch, etc) Work Location and ...

Sr. Engineer, AI & ML

Richmond, VA

$103K - $142K/yr

About this job At CarMax, a Senior Engineer, Artificial Intelligence is a technologist with domain ... Data Science Libraries and Algorithms (TensorFlow, Scikit, PyTorch, etc) Work Location and ...

Sr. Engineer, AI & ML

Richmond, VA · On-site

$103K - $142K/yr

About this job At CarMax, a Senior Engineer, Artificial Intelligence is a technologist with domain ... Data Science Libraries and Algorithms (TensorFlow, Scikit, PyTorch, etc) Work Location and ...

Senior Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$140K - $185K/yr

Title and Summary Senior Software Engineer Who is Mastercard? Mastercard is a global technology ... algorithms to solve complex problems efficiently and optimize system behavior. • Lead and ...

Senior Software Engineer

Arlington, VA

$141K - $186K/yr

Title and Summary Senior Software Engineer Who is Mastercard? Mastercard is a global technology ... algorithms to solve complex problems efficiently and optimize system behavior. • Lead and ...

Senior AI/ML Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $165K/yr

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented Senior AI/ML Engineer to join our team ... Optimize AI/ML algorithms for performance and scalability * Troubleshoot complex issues in AI/ML ...

Senior AI/ML Engineer

Arlington, VA

$120K - $165K/yr

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented Senior AI/ML Engineer to join our team ... Optimize AI/ML algorithms for performance and scalability * Troubleshoot complex issues in AI/ML ...

Sr. Distinguished AI Engineer

Richmond, VA

$121K - $160K/yr

Sr. Distinguished AI Engineer At Capital One, we are creating responsible and reliable AI systems ... Experience developing AI and ML algorithms or technologies (e.g. LLM Inference, Similarity Search ...

Senior AI/ML Engineer

Arlington, VA

$120K - $165K/yr

Senior AI/ML Engineer Elevate your career with MANTECH International Corporation! Join a dynamic ... Optimize AI/ML algorithms for performance and scalability * Troubleshoot complex issues in AI/ML ...

Sr. Distinguished AI Engineer

Mclean, VA

$124K - $163K/yr

Sr. Distinguished AI Engineer At Capital One, we are creating responsible and reliable AI systems ... Experience developing AI and ML algorithms or technologies (e.g. LLM Inference, Similarity Search ...

Sr. Distinguished AI Engineer

Mclean, VA

$123K - $163K/yr

Sr. Distinguished AI Engineer At Capital One, we are creating responsible and reliable AI systems ... Experience developing AI and ML algorithms or technologies (e.g. LLM Inference, Similarity Search ...

Sr. Distinguished AI Engineer

Richmond, VA

$121K - $159K/yr

Sr. Distinguished AI Engineer At Capital One, we are creating responsible and reliable AI systems ... Experience developing AI and ML algorithms or technologies (e.g. LLM Inference, Similarity Search ...

Senior Distinguished AI Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$123K - $163K/yr

Senior Distinguished AI Engineer At Capital One, we are creating responsible and reliable AI ... Experience developing AI and ML algorithms or technologies (e.g. LLM Inference, Similarity Search ...

Senior Distinguished AI Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$121K - $159K/yr

Senior Distinguished AI Engineer At Capital One, we are creating responsible and reliable AI ... Experience developing AI and ML algorithms or technologies (e.g. LLM Inference, Similarity Search ...

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Showing results 1-20

Senior Algorithm Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$59K

$125.5K

$181.9K

How much do senior algorithm engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior algorithm engineer in Virginia is $125,471.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $103,600.00 and $142,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Senior Algorithm Engineer vs Data Scientist?

AspectSenior Algorithm EngineerData Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in CS, EE, or related; strong math and programming skillsBachelor's or Master's in CS, Statistics, or related; strong analytical and programming skills
Work EnvironmentDevelops algorithms for software, hardware, or embedded systems in tech companiesAnalyzes data to extract insights, often in tech, finance, or healthcare sectors
Industry UsageCommon in AI, robotics, and software developmentPrevalent in analytics, machine learning, and business intelligence

While both roles require strong programming and analytical skills, Senior Algorithm Engineers focus on designing and optimizing algorithms for technical systems, whereas Data Scientists analyze data to inform business decisions. The roles often overlap in AI and machine learning projects but serve different primary functions within organizations.

What are some common challenges faced by Senior Algorithm Engineers when deploying algorithms into production environments?

Senior Algorithm Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring that algorithms are both scalable and efficient when integrated into real-time systems. Balancing model accuracy with computational resource constraints is a frequent task, as well as addressing data inconsistencies and managing version control for iterative algorithm updates. Collaboration with software engineers and data engineers is essential to ensure smooth deployment, monitor performance, and quickly resolve any production issues. Staying updated with the latest frameworks and best practices also helps in overcoming these challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Algorithm Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Algorithm Engineer, you need advanced proficiency in mathematics, computer science, and algorithm design, usually supported by a relevant degree and extensive experience in the field. Expertise with programming languages such as Python or C++, proficiency with machine learning libraries, and familiarity with version control systems like Git are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly help set top candidates apart. These skills are crucial for developing robust, efficient solutions and collaborating effectively on challenging technical projects.

What does a Senior Algorithm Engineer do?

A Senior Algorithm Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing complex algorithms that solve technical problems or enhance product performance. They often work with large datasets, machine learning models, or mathematical techniques to create efficient solutions. In addition to coding, they may collaborate with cross-functional teams, review the work of junior engineers, and help set the technical direction for algorithm development projects. Their expertise ensures that products and systems run efficiently and accurately.
What are the most commonly searched types of Algorithm Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Algorithm Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Senior Algorithm Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Senior Algorithm Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior Algorithm Engineer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% Locum Tenens, 11% As Needed, 37% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 31% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,471 per year, or $60.3 per hour.
Senior Software Engineer JobID-0047

Senior Software Engineer JobID-0047

Innovative Defense Technologies

Arlington, VA

$164K - $273K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Be an early applicant


Job description

Description
About The Role:
Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT), a leading defense technology company, is seeking a Sr. Software Engineer I to be part of our Missile Defense team and based out of our Mount Laurel, NJ, Arlington, VA, or San Diego, CA locations.
 
The Sr Software Engineer will develop ATRT software tools to include missile defense dashboards and visualizations in React.js and third-party visualization libraries, agentic AI solutions, and analytics software.  This role is expected to manage teams to handle all aspects of the software development lifecycle from requirements collection through user acceptance testing.  The Sr Software Engineer is also expected to participate in the software development process alongside their team.
 
Clearance & Location Requirements:
  • All applicants must currently possess an active Secret U.S. Security Clearance.
  • This is an on-site position. Requiring at least 3 days in the office, based out of our Mount Laurel, NJ, Arlington, VA, or San Diego, CA locations.

Key Responsibilities
What You Will Do:
  • Manage Risk and Security: Identify and mitigate technical and security risks through proactive testing, code reviews, and adherence to secure development practices. Participate in threat modeling sessions and follow established processes to ensure compliance with organizational and system-level standards.
  • Engineer and Architect Solutions: Design and develop high-fidelity prototypes to guide architectural decisions and evaluate solutions against business and operational goals. Architect end-to-end systems that balance project constraints with enterprise objectives, selecting languages, frameworks, and data structures to optimize performance and scalability. Apply advanced algorithms and design patterns to solve complex problems while adapting frameworks to maximize value and efficiency.
  • Test and Assure Quality: Design and implement comprehensive test strategies, including unit, integration, and performance testing, to ensure full system coverage. Lead complex incident investigations and coordinate cross-team issue resolution. Enhance monitoring, alerting, and diagnostic tools to improve detection and response, while proactively addressing systemic defects and guiding architectural improvements to ensure long-term software stability.
  • Leadership & Collaboration: Mentor junior engineers, participate in design/code reviews, and communicate effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise
 Who You Are (Required):
  • Bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, computer engineering, cybersecurity, or related field (or equivalent full-time professional experience)
  • Minimum of 10 years’ experience in software development
  • Ability to travel approximately 20%
  • Ability to develop software in Java, JavaScript, Python, or C++ (among other programming languages)
  • Experience architecting and building with relational databases such as SQL, Postgres databases like MongoDB.
  • Ability to decompose and document requirements and specifications
  • Understanding of distributed systems, algorithms, data structures, and software design patterns
  • Demonstrable experience leading all aspects of the Software Development Life Cycle
  • Experience with software testing and configuration management
  • Ability to convert vague customer requirements into a refined vision
  • Ability to identify and describe algorithmic complexity
  • Ability to work on-site with potential hybrid flexibility
What Makes You Stand Out
  • Experience with AI-assisted software development
  • Master's degree in Engineering or another technical field
  • Development, system integration, and test experience for complex software applications
  • Experience with testing software and test automation
  • Experience with containerized deployment technologies (Kubernetes, OpenShift, Docker etc.)
  • Experience with basic network concepts like VLANs, IP addressing schemes, and static routing
  • Experience with low-level software design and development, such as Digital Signal Processors, Single Board Computers, Field Programmable Gate Arrays, Operating System Drivers, or other related low-level development
If you see yourself reflected in this role and are excited about the impact you could make, we encourage you to apply! If you know someone who may be a great fit, please feel free to share this opportunity with your network.
Pay Range*: $164,000 - $273,000 or $198,000 - $328,000
This amount may not be reflective of actual compensation that may be earned, as pay is dependent on a candidate’s experience, skills, and education. The posted range does not include bonuses, commissions, tips, or other benefits. IDT is often looking to place multiple candidates at various levels. Therefore, more than one pay range has been included, commensurate with experience. 

Job Benefits
Why Work at Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT):
IDT is a growing company with a vibrant, entrepreneurial culture. We are headquartered in Arlington, VA with additional offices in Fall River, MA; Mount Laurel, NJ; and San Diego, CA. At each location, our employees work together in a modern, snack-filled, and social office space, designing innovative solutions for our defense industry customers. We offer employees competitive pay and benefits including:  
  • Generous benefits package 
  • Competitive PTO 
  • Paid holidays 
  • 401(k) with immediate vesting and matching 
  • 9/80 optional schedule (2nd and 4th Friday off every month)  
  • Tuition Assistance Reimbursement Program
  • Professional Development Resources 
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Benefits
  • Organization-Wide Monthly Tech Connect Events
  • Annual Employee Recognition Awards 
  • Regular Social Events and Catered Lunches 
 
EEO Statement:
IDT is an Equal Opportunity employer.