Lead AI Data Scientist/Engineer (DoD Focus)

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Role: Leader AI Scientist/Engineer

Company: Arch Systems

Location: Remote

Employment Type: Full-Time

About Arch Systems

Arch Systems, LLC is a dynamic and fast-growing technology company specializing in delivering data science, AI/ML solutions, and advanced systems engineering to government and defense customers. We thrive at the forefront of innovation, solving the most complex data challenges with precision, efficiency, and mission impact.

Position Overview

We are seeking an accomplished Lead AI Data Scientist/Engineer with extensive experience in Department of Defense (DoD) environments. This role will lead the design, development, and deployment of AI/ML models tailored to mission-critical defense applications. The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in applied AI/ML research, engineering excellence, and a deep understanding of DoD data ecosystems, security requirements, and operational imperatives.

Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership

• Define and execute AI/ML strategies that address defense mission needs, ensuring alignment with operational, cybersecurity, and compliance requirements.
• Lead and mentor a multidisciplinary team of data scientists, machine learning engineers, and AI researchers to deliver innovative solutions for defense clients.
• Foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, and rapid innovation across projects and teams.

Model Development and Research

• Design, build, and deploy advanced machine learning models for defense-related applications including threat detection, entity resolution, pattern recognition, and mission situational awareness.
• Build multi-class classification systems for complex DoD data environments.
• Apply knowledge graph construction and analysis to defense intelligence, logistics, and command and control use cases.
• Tackle high-impact problems in NLP such as secure semantic search, sensitive topic modeling, and classified document summarization.
• Lead applied AI research initiatives to push the frontier of ML innovation in mission environments.

Data Engineering and Infrastructure

• Architect and optimize data pipelines capable of ingesting and processing classified and sensitive data at scale.
• Implement best practices for secure ML operations (MLOps) in DoD settings, ensuring operational reliability, traceability, and auditability.
• Integrate AI/ML solutions with legacy and modern DoD systems using scalable, secure architectures.

Customer Engagement and Mission Integration

• Serve as a primary technical interface with DoD stakeholders, ensuring AI solutions meet mission objectives, timelines, and security postures.
• Translate complex operational problems into scalable, AI-driven solutions with clear deliverables and measurable outcomes.
• Collaborate with government leadership, contractors, and other partners to deliver AI capabilities that drive mission success.

Innovation and Continuous Improvement

• Stay current with emerging research, tools, and defense-related AI advancements, integrating best practices and new capabilities into projects.
• Champion continuous learning and professional development within the AI/ML team.

Qualifications

• Experience:
• 7+ years of experience building, deploying, and operationalizing machine learning models.
• 5+ years of experience supporting DoD or intelligence community missions.
• Experience working within classified environments and handling sensitive information.
• Technical Expertise:
• Advanced proficiency in machine learning, deep learning, and applied research.
• Extensive experience with NLP, semantic retrieval, and knowledge graph technologies.
• Strong programming skills in Python and ML frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow, scikit-learn).
• Expertise in distributed computing frameworks (e.g., Spark, Ray, Dask) preferred.
• Familiarity with MLOps best practices, containerization (Docker, Kubernetes), and CI/CD pipelines for ML deployments.
• Domain Knowledge:
• Understanding of DoD data systems, cybersecurity compliance (e.g., RMF, CMMC), and operational needs.
• Background in working with large-scale, multi-domain datasets (e.g., GEOINT, SIGINT, OSINT, cyber).
• Leadership Skills:
• Demonstrated ability to lead multi-functional technical teams delivering high-impact projects.
• Experience engaging directly with senior government and defense stakeholders.
• Education:
• Bachelor s degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, or a related field is required.
• Master s or PhD strongly preferred.

Desired Skills

• Active DoD Security Clearance (Secret or higher preferred).
• Experience supporting AI projects at combatant commands, service branches, or defense agencies.
• Strong publication or contribution record in defense-related AI research.
• Knowledge of Zero Trust security architectures in AI/ML systems.

Why Join Arch Systems?

• Help shape the next generation of defense capabilities using cutting-edge AI.
• Work in a high-growth environment with a mission-driven culture.
• Collaborate with an elite team of AI professionals passionate about national security.
• Enjoy competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and remote flexibility.