Machine Engineer - Autonomy Lab with Security Clearance

Position Overview

At the SEI AI Division, we conduct research in applied artificial intelligence and address engineering questions related to the practical design and implementation of AI technologies and systems. We lead a community-wide movement to mature the discipline of AI Engineering for Defense and National Security. As our government customers adopt AI and machine learning (ML) to provide leap-ahead mission capabilities, we build real-world, mission-scale AI capabilities, define processes and tools for operationalizing AI, prepare our customers for unique challenges, and investigate emerging AI technologies.

Position Summary: As a machine learning engineer in the AI for Autonomy Lab, you will identify, shape, apply, conduct, and lead engineering research that addresses critical U.S. government needs. The lab demonstrates the application of AI-related technologies to improve the performance of autonomy systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Solution Development: Lead interdisciplinary teams to turn research results into prototype operational capabilities for government customers and stakeholders.
• Hands-on Prototyping: Conduct and lead novel prototyping in applied artificial intelligence with a focus on machine learning in autonomy and uncrewed systems across multiple domains.
• Strategy: Collaborate with AI Division leaders to plan, develop, and execute research and engineering strategies that influence the national research agenda.
• Collaboration: Actively participate with software developers, researchers, designers, and technical leads while building relationships with government customers and stakeholders.
• Mentoring: Enhance team capabilities by mentoring colleagues, participating in design sessions, and sharing insights across the SEI AI Division.

Required Qualifications

• Education & Experience: BS in Computer Science or a related discipline with 8 years of experience; MS with 5 years; or PhD with 2 years.
• Work Location: Must be able and willing to work onsite at an SEI office in Pittsburgh, PA or Arlington, VA 5 days per week, with moderate (25%) travel.
• Security: Subject to a background investigation and must be eligible to obtain and maintain a Department of War security clearance.
• Deep Technical Knowledge: Extensive experience in applied machine learning and artificial intelligence, including tools, algorithms, and systems engineering principles.
• Machine Learning Expertise: Profound understanding of machine learning principles with hands-on experience in designing and implementing ML architectures and functions.
• Robotics & Autonomy: Strong foundation in robotics principles and experience with sensor fusion, navigation, collision avoidance, multi-agent collaboration, and human-machine teaming.
• Test & Evaluation: Experience in designing and executing test and evaluation activities for ML components using model experimentation software.
• Full-Stack Implementation: Proven development experience with tools such as Docker and familiarity with cloud platforms (Azure, AWS, Google Cloud).
• Communication & Collaboration: Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present complex ideas clearly.
• Dedication and Adaptability: Ability to meet deadlines while juggling multiple priorities and working under pressure.
• Creativity and Innovation: A creative, curious, and forward-looking mindset to connect research and engineering with practical challenges.
• Broad Technical Knowledge: A strong background in machine learning, autonomy systems, adaptive technologies, or data analytics.

Preferred Qualifications

• Thought Leadership & Publications: A record of publishing research, code, or technical perspectives, demonstrating the highest standards of research integrity.
• Emerging Trends Awareness: Familiarity with current technical challenges and emerging opportunities in computing and information science.
• Technical Leadership: Experience in leading technical projects, mentoring researchers, and delivering successful research and engineering proposals.
• Government Projects: Prior work with or knowledge of projects sponsored by Navy, Marine, Air Force, Army, Space Force, DARPA, IARPA, or similar agencies.

Benefits & Perks

• Salary: Competitive salary structure.
• Comprehensive employee benefits package.
• Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran inclusion.

Location: Arlington, VA & Pittsburgh, PAJob Function: Software/Applications Development/EngineeringPosition Type: Staff - Regular, Full timePay Basis: Salary

For more information, please visit "Why Carnegie Mellon" to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world. Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer.