Senior Machine Learning Engineer

Job Description

Description

SAIC is seeking a Secret cleared AI/Machine Learning Subject Matter Expert in support of NAVWAR's Naval Operational Architecture (NOA) Program in San Diego, CA.

In this role, you'll help drive the innovation of autonomous, AI-enabled systems for the Naval Operational Architecture that supports distributed maritime operations. You will translate sensor-derived data into real-time decision triggers, supporting initiatives. Your contributions will play a pivotal role in enhancing the Navy's command networks with AI-driven analysis, prioritizing speed, resilience, and operational superiority. In this mission-critical position, your expertise will help shape the future of autonomous naval warfare and analytic decision support. This is a recently awarded contract, funded for five years.

Work is performed on site in San Diego, CA.

Responsibilities:

• Design and implement computer vision algorithms for object detection, tracking, and environmental perception.
• Analyze and integrate data from various sensor modalities including EO/IR cameras, LIDAR, and radar.
• Develop scalable data pipelines and orchestrate workflows using Apache Airflow and AWS services.
• Write efficient Python code and shell scripts for deployment and automation tasks.
• Work in a Linux development environment, emphasizing scripting, debugging, and system-level operations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including ML engineers, software developers, and systems integrators.

Qualifications

Education and Yrs of Experience Requirements:

• Master's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, or a related STEM field and and six (6) years of experience in of AI/ML experience in defense or intelligence environments.
• OR Bachelor's Degree in the above fields plus at least eight (8) years of relevant defense-oriented AI/ML experience (e.g., modeling, operational deployment, systems integration).

Citizenship and Clearance requirements:

• US Citizenship required.
• No dual citizenship.
• Active Secret clearance required; TS SCI clearance preferred.

Required Skills and Experience:

• Six (6) or more years of experience and a strong background in Machine Learning and Computer Vision, including classical techniques and deep learning-based approaches.
• Proficiency with Python and Bash scripting.
• Experience with Apache Airflow and AWS Cloud for data orchestration and workflow automation.
• Practical experience working with Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs), or similar autonomous platforms such as UAVs, UUVs, and/or Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) platforms.
• Hands-on experience with computer vision libraries such as OpenCV, PyTorch, TensorFlow, etc.
• Comfortable operating in Linux environments for development and deployment tasks.

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• Proficiency in containerization and orchestration tools (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes) for scalable deployment.
• Understanding of ML Ops practices including CI/CD pipelines, model versioning, and automated retraining.
• Experience with real-time systems and latency-sensitive applications in robotics or surveillance.
• Prior work with defense, maritime, or aerospace systems, especially involving autonomy or ISR missions.

Please view our Program page for more information and to view all open positions available: https://jobs.saic.com/pages/NOA.
Target salary range: $200,001 - $240,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.

Overview

SAIC accepts applications on an ongoing basis and there is no deadline.

SAIC® is a premier Fortune 500® mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, civilian and intelligence markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.

We are approximately 24,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.5 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.