Job Summary:
Carnegie Mellon University is a leading institution in applied artificial intelligence research, particularly in defense and national security. They are seeking a Senior Machine Learning Engineer to lead independent applied-research projects, focusing on developing mission-scale AI capabilities and translating research ideas into operational prototypes.
Responsibilities:
• Design, implement, and evaluate state‑of‑the‑art ML models (computer‑vision, NLP, planning, etc.) using frameworks such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, Torch, or Caffe.
• Build and maintain robust data pipelines, ETL processes, and backend services in Python, C/C++, and Java.
• Lead rapid‑prototyping efforts, translate research results into operational prototypes, and test for performance, robustness, and security.
• Define and refine DevSecOps practices for ML (model registries, containerized deployment, continuous integration/continuous delivery, security scanning).
• Mentor junior team members, collaborate with researchers, government customers, and other engineers, and contribute to technical strategy for the lab.
Qualifications:
Required:
• B.S. in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Statistics, or related field with ≥10 years of experience; OR M.S. with ≥8 years; OR Ph.D. with ≥5 years of relevant experience.
• Ability to obtain and maintain an active Department of War security clearance.
• You must be able and willing to work onsite 5 days per week at an SEI office in either Pittsburgh, PA or Arlington, VA.
• Strong experience in one or more programming language such as Python, C/C++, and Java; comfortable developing production-grade code and APIs.
• Solid understanding of ML theory, statistical learning, and common algorithms.
• Hands-on experience with TensorFlow, PyTorch, Torch, Caffe, or similar deep-learning libraries.
• Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines, container orchestration (Docker/Kubernetes), model versioning, and security-focused tooling.
Preferred:
• Proven track record of independent applied-research projects that resulted in demonstrable prototypes or operational capabilities.
• Publications or open-source contributions in AI and ML, especially in adversarial or robust ML.
• Experience working on defense or other high-impact government programs.
• Ability to quickly learn emerging AI and ML technologies and translate them into mission-relevant solutions.
Company:
Carnegie Mellon University is a research university offering programs and research across engineering, science, arts, and business. Founded in 1900, the company is headquartered in Pittsburgh, USA, with a team of 5001-10000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.