Senior Machine Learning Engineer

Description

SAIC is seeking a Secret cleared AI/Machine Learning Subject Matter Expert in support of NAVWAR's Naval Operational Architecture (NOA) Program in San Diego, CA.

In this role, you'll help drive the innovation of autonomous, AI-enabled systems for the Naval Operational Architecture that supports distributed maritime operations. You will translate sensor-derived data into real-time decision triggers, supporting initiatives. Your contributions will play a pivotal role in enhancing the Navy's command networks with AI-driven analysis, prioritizing speed, resilience, and operational superiority. In this mission-critical position, your expertise will help shape the future of autonomous naval warfare and analytic decision support. This is a recently awarded contract, funded for five years.

Work is performed on site in San Diego, CA.

Responsibilities:

• Design and implement computer vision algorithms for object detection, tracking, and environmental perception.
• Analyze and integrate data from various sensor modalities including EO/IR cameras, LIDAR, and radar.
• Develop scalable data pipelines and orchestrate workflows using Apache Airflow and AWS services.
• Write efficient Python code and shell scripts for deployment and automation tasks.
• Work in a Linux development environment, emphasizing scripting, debugging, and system-level operations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including ML engineers, software developers, and systems integrators.

Qualifications

Education and Years of Experience Requirements:

• Master's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, or a related STEM field and six (6) years of experience in of AI/ML experience in defense or intelligence environments.
• OR Bachelor's Degree in the above fields plus at least eight (8) years of relevant defense-oriented AI/ML experience (e.g., modeling, operational deployment, systems integration).

Citizenship and Clearance requirements:

• US Citizenship required.
• No dual citizenship.
• Active Secret clearance required; TS SCI clearance preferred.

Required Skills and Experience:

• Six (6) or more years of experience and a strong background in Machine Learning and Computer Vision, including classical techniques and deep learning-based approaches.
• Proficiency with Python and Bash scripting.
• Experience with Apache Airflow and AWS Cloud for data orchestration and workflow automation.
• Practical experience working with Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs), or similar autonomous platforms such as UAVs, UUVs, and/or Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) platforms.
• Hands-on experience with computer vision libraries such as OpenCV, PyTorch, TensorFlow, etc.
• Comfortable operating in Linux environments for development and deployment tasks.

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• Proficiency in containerization and orchestration tools (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes) for scalable deployment.
• Understanding of ML Ops practices including CI/CD pipelines, model versioning, and automated retraining.
• Experience with real-time systems and latency-sensitive applications in robotics or surveillance.
• Prior work with defense, maritime, or aerospace systems, especially involving autonomy or ISR missions.

Please view our Program page for more information and to view all open positions available: https://jobs.saic.com/pages/NOA .

Target salary range: $200,001 - $240,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.