Carnegie Mellon University's Software Engineering Institute (SEI) is hiring a Senior Machine Learning Engineer to join its AI Division. You will lead independent applied-research projects for defense-focused missions, taking research ideas from concept to prototype. The role involves full-stack work across data pipelines, model development, API services, and secure deployment to deliver mission-scale AI capabilities.
What You'll Do
- 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.
What We're Looking For
- 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.
- 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.
Nice to Have
- 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.
Technical Stack
- ML Frameworks: TensorFlow, PyTorch, Torch, Caffe
- Languages: Python, C/C++, Java
- Infrastructure: Docker, Kubernetes
Team & Environment
You will be part of the Mission Innovation Lab within the SEI’s AI Division. The team culture is creative, curious, energetic, collaborative, technology-focused, and hard-working, interested in making a difference by bringing innovation to government organizations.
Work Mode
This role is fully onsite, requiring 5 days per week at an SEI office located in either Pittsburgh, PA or Arlington, VA.
Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.
