Staff/Senior Staff Machine Learning & AI Engineer

SciTec has an immediate opportunity for a talented Machine Learning & AI Engineer to support our programs delivering Next-Generation Missile Warning software. This is a unique opportunity to join a small business delivering core capabilities for national defense. You will work within a fast-paced team developing end-to-end machine learning and analytics pipelines for Overhead Persistent InfraRed (OPIR) sensor data supporting Missile Warning, Missile Defense, Battlespace Awareness, and Technical Intelligence., We are seeking a Staff/Senior Staff Machine Learning & AI Engineer to design, train, and optimize high-performance ML models and algorithms that enhance remote sensor data exploitation and analysis. This role focuses on hands-on algorithm development, model optimization, and integration into production software systems running on Linux., * Develop and implement machine learning, deep learning, and AI algorithms for remote sensor data exploitation

• Design, train, and optimize models supporting image analysis, detection, tracking, and multi-modal sensor fusion
• Deploy high-performance inference pipelines for large-volume, real-time or near-real-time data processing
• Collaborate closely with C++ and system-level engineers to integrate ML/AI solutions into existing software frameworks
• Apply strong software engineering practices to ensure model reproducibility, performance, and maintainability
• Work as part of an Agile team and contribute to shared tools, workflows, and documentation
• Other duties as assigned

The ideal candidate is a strong individual contributor with deep experience in machine learning, high-throughput data processing, and applied algorithmic development. Success in this role requires technical curiosity, rigorous engineering practices, and the ability to collaborate effectively within a highly technical, Agile team., * A Bachelor’s degree in the physical sciences, mathematics, engineering, computer science, or a related field (Additional years of education may be substituted for years of professional experience)

• At least five years of professional experience in machine learning, AI engineering, or applied algorithm development
• At least three years of experience working in Linux environments
• Proficiency with Python and common ML frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, TensorFlow, scikit-learn)
• Strong understanding of data structures, numerical methods, and algorithm design
• Experience optimizing models and pipelines for high-data-throughput processing
• Feature engineering and statistical tests, such as Mutual Information and Shapley Analysis
• Detail oriented with strong problem-solving skills
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work full-time in-person at the Boulder, CO office location
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with GPU programming and acceleration (CUDA, cuDNN, TensorRT, ROCm, etc.)
• Direct experience applying ML/AI techniques to OPIR, E/O, SAR, Spectral, RF, or other remotely sensed data
• Strong understanding of modern software engineering principles, including object-oriented design and SOLID principles
• Experience with production deployment of ML models, MLOps pipelines, or real-time inference systems
• Familiarity with C++17/20/23, especially for model integration or high-performance compute components
• Advanced degree (MS or PhD) in the physical sciences, mathematics, engineering, computer science, or a related discipline
• Professional fluency in one or more additional languages: Python, Rust, or C++
• Prior experience in Agile software development environments
• A current active DoD SECRET clearance or higher

SciTec offers a highly competitive salary and benefits package, including:

• 4% Safe Harbor 401(k) match
• 100% company paid HSA Medical insurance, with a choice of 2 buy-up options
• 80% company paid Dental insurance
• 100% company paid Vision insurance
• 100% company paid Life insurance
• 100% company paid Long-term Disability insurance
• 100% company paid Hospital Indemnity insurance
• Voluntary Accident and Critical Illness insurance
• Short-term Disability insurance
• Annual Profit-Sharing Plan
• Discretionary Performance Bonus
• Paid Parental Leave
• Generous Paid Time Off, including Holiday, Vacation, and Sick Pay
• Flexible Work Hours

The pay range for this position is $127,000 - $193,000 / year. SciTec considers several factors when extending an offer of employment, including but not limited to the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills. This is not a guarantee of compensation.

SciTec is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. VET/Disabled

SciTec, a wholly owned subsidiary of Firefly Aerospace, is a dynamic non-traditional defense contractor that delivers advanced technologies in support of U.S. National Security and Defense. For the past forty-five plus years, we have supported Department of Defense customers by developing innovative remote sensing algorithms, tools, and techniques to deliver world-class data exploitation capabilities supporting missile