Staff Scientist - AI/ML Developer

Quick Facts

• Role: Staff Scientist / AI-ML Developer (Level 5 Technical Staff)

Description

Lead and execute AI/ML research and prototype development for homeland protection and national security mission needs. Prototype and apply state-of-the-art ML algorithms (including time series analysis, natural language processing, graph analytics, and multi-modal learning), architect and integrate AI/ML systems, and advise stakeholders on solution direction and emerging trends. Provide technical leadership across ambiguous, multi-disciplinary workstreams, mentor others, and deliver technical reports, briefings, and publications.

Responsibilities

• Lead projects or major workstreams across multi-disciplinary design, development, data analysis, programming, prototyping, integration, testing, and transition activities
• Apply deep technical expertise to solve significantly complex problems by evaluating alternatives, trade-offs, risks, and mission implications
• Influence technical approach for mission research, systems/subsystems, architecture design, and integration
• Translate project objectives into actionable technical plans in ambiguous environments
• Mentor team members by reviewing work, providing feedback, technical guidance, and strengthening problem-solving judgment
• Identify opportunities to improve tools, processes, methods, documentation, and execution practices
• Contribute to engineering/scientific papers, technical reports, presentations, and (when applicable) proposals or grants

Requirements

• Expertise in AI/ML system development and integration
• Expertise in one or more AI/ML domains/specializations (e.g., time series, NLP, graph analytics, multi-modal)
• Code development using Python with Git and software management best practices
• Familiarity with backend development (server-side logic, database management, APIs)
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Bachelor’s degree in a STEM discipline with typically 6+ years of relevant experience, or Master’s with typically 4+ years, or PhD with 0+ years (or equivalent education/experience)
• Demonstrated ability to lead projects/major workstreams and deliver complex technical outcomes
• Experience evaluating trade-offs, recommending paths forward, and adapting approaches to evolving needs
• Mentorship, collaboration, and ability to communicate recommendations, risks, and technical findings to varied audiences
• Experience contributing to formal technical deliverables (reports, papers, presentations, proposals)
• Current or obtainable Secret-level DoD security clearance

Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans
• MIT-funded pension
• Matching 401K
• Paid leave (including vacation, sick, parental, military, etc.)
• Tuition reimbursement and continuing education programs
• Mentorship programs
• Work-life balance options
• Additional voluntary benefits and perks