Senior Machine Learning Engineer

We are seeking a Senior Machine Learning Engineer to lead the design, quantization, and deployment of edge-native AI models and knowledge analytics engines. In this role, you will transition state-of-the-art Small Language Models (SLMs) and knowledge graph pipelines into air-gapped, degraded, and bandwidth-constrained tactical hardware.

You will ensure all deployed AI capabilities comply with UK Defence standards for Dependable AI (JSP 936), delivering deterministic, explainable, and human-in-the-loop decision-support tools for intelligence and operational users.

Requirements

• Edge Model Optimization & Deployment: Quantize, fine-tune, and optimize open-source SLMs (e.g., Gemma 3, Llama 3) and vision-language models for execution on low-power edge runtimes (LiteRT / TensorFlow Lite, ONNX Runtime, ExecuTorch).
• Knowledge Analytics & Graph Processing: Design, implement, and maintain lightweight on-device graph databases and relationship extraction pipelines (Python, Rust, or C++) to process structured and unstructured sensor data.
• JSP 936 & AI Governance: Implement bounding guardrails, prompt evaluation, and anti-hallucination controls to ensure 100% compliance with MoD AI ethics, safety, and non-kinetic governance standards.
• Data & MLOps Pipelines: Build reproducible model training, evaluation, and containerised deployment pipelines capable of operating in air-gapped or low-bandwidth environments.
• Technical Client Advisory: Translate complex ML/AI concepts into clear technical recommendations for MoD stakeholders, DSTL assessors, and Prime contractors.

• Defence & AI Governance

• Active UK SC Clearance (minimum).

• Strong understanding of AI safety, non-repudiation, and human-in-the-loop operational constraints (JSP 936 V1.1 / Dependable AI).

• ML & Edge Inference Mastery

• 3+ years of production experience deploying ML models to edge runtime environments (LiteRT/TFLite, ONNX, C++ bindings).
• Experience in model quantization techniques (INT8, INT4, AWQ) and execution acceleration across NPU/GPU hardware.

• Proficiency in Python and PyTorch/HuggingFace ecosystems.

• Data Structures & Knowledge Processing

• Solid foundation in natural language processing (NLP), semantic summarisation, and graph-based data structures (Graph DBs, vector embeddings, network analysis).
• Understanding of data serialization formats (Protobuf, JSON, XML) and streaming analytics.

Desirable / Bonus Qualifications

• Experience integrating ML runtimes into Android ART (via Chaquopy, JNI, or native C++ libraries).
• Background in processing military sensor feeds, signals intelligence (SIGRF), or Cursor-on-Target (CoT) data.
• Publications or prior project delivery with DSTL, DAIC, or Defence Innovation programs.

• Competitive Pay:Salaries reviewed annually to ensure they reflect your performance and market value.
• Loyalty Pension:We invest in your future. Starting at a 5% employer contribution, we increase this by 0.5% every year after your third anniversary, up to amaximum of 8%.
• Protection:Comprehensive Group Life Assurance for peace of mind.

Purpose & Culture

• Real Impact:Work on mission-critical projects that secure and improve the UK’s digital infrastructure.
• Autonomy:A culture that empowers you to make decisions, prototype rapidly, and iterate towards success.
• Service & Community:We support those who serve.10 paid daysfor Reservist Military Service.

Work / Life Balance

• Time Off:25 days annual leave+ Bank Holidays, with the flexibility to Buy/Sell additional days to suit your lifestyle.
• Giving back:2 paid volunteering days per year.

Development & Growth

• Master Your Craft:Fully funded professional certifications (AWS, GCP, Agile, etc.) supported by5 days paid study leave.
• Expand Your Horizons:An additional £500 annual "Personal Choice" fund to learn whatever inspires youwork-related or not.
• Support:Access to 1-2-1 professional coaching and team training to accelerate your career.

Health & Balance

• Premium Health:Vitality Private Medical Insurance (includes Apple Watch, gym discounts, and rewards).
• Flexibility:Genuine hybrid working with a WFH equipment allowance to perfect your home setup.