AI/ML Engineer

Strategic Alliance Business Group (SABG); Chantilly (VA); On-site; USD 160,000 - 220,000; Full time

Job summary

Strategic Alliance Business Group (SABG) in Chantilly, VA, is seeking an AI/ML Engineer at Level II–IV to support the National Reconnaissance Office. The role focuses on developing ML algorithms for space surveillance and sensor networks.

Candidates should have TS/SCI with poly, a strong background in Python and C++, and experience in modeling, simulation, and HPC pipelines. You will collaborate with cross‑functional teams and present technical briefings.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Applied Math, or a related technical field.
• 3+ years of experience in modeling and simulation for aerospace or space systems.
• Active TS/SCI with Poly clearance.
• Proficient in Python; experience with NumPy, SciPy, pandas, matplotlib.
• Ability to communicate technical results clearly in writing and verbally.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with modeling and simulation teams for satellite programs.
• Develop ML algorithms for satellite recognition and scheduling.
• Design, train, and evaluate ML models including supervised, unsupervised, and RL.
• Build HPC pipelines for scalability and monitoring.
• Review algorithms from external teams and present technical briefings.
• Mentor by AI/ML, HPC, astrodynamics experts.

Skills

Python

C++

ML algorithms

Data analysis

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Applied Math, or related field

Tools

NumPy

SciPy

pandas

matplotlib

Job description

Brief Description

SABG is seeking an AI/ML Engineer in Multiple Levels- Level II, III, or IV to support the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO).

JOB TITLE

AI/ML Engineer (Level II, III, or IV)

CLEARANCE

TS/SCI with poly

LOCATION

Chantilly, VA

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Collaborate with modeling and simulation team to conduct a wide variety of analyses in support of government satellite programs in Earth orbits, as well as satellite designers and operations planners
• Develop new Machine Learning (ML) algorithms for applications such as
  • Using optical and radar space-surveillance sensors to recognize different types of satellites
  • Scheduling space surveillance sensor networks to find, recognize and track maneuvering satellites
  • Deciding what activities satellites should undertake
• Algorithm development will include steps such as
  • Conducting Exploratory Data Analysis (EDA) to identify patterns
  • Designing, developing, and evaluating machine learning algorithms, including supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning
  • Building, training, and tuning predictive models
  • Collaborating with cross-functional teams to identify and solve problems
  • Implementing and optimizing algorithms for tasks such as anomaly detection, prediction, classification, optimization, clustering
  • Developing High Performance Computing pipelines for scalability and monitoring
• Use programming languages such as Python, C++, or others to leverage existing analysis tools and develop new ones and work with experts in astrodynamics, sensors, AI/ML, High Performance Computing (HPC)
• Review and validate algorithms and results provided by external teams
• Develop and optionally present actionable technical briefings as well as Conduct independent trade studies and technical assessments
• Mentoring by experts in AI/ML, HPC, astrodynamics, sensing and other fields.

SUPERVISION

This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.

Education And Experience

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Applied Math, or a related technical field.
• 3+ years of experience in modeling and simulation for aerospace or space systems.
• Active Top Secret/SCI w/Poly Clearance
• Strong understanding of sensor phenomenology—such as optical, infrared, or radar systems—and associated modeling methods.
• Intermediate Python programming experience, demonstrated through hands‑on experience with tasks such as data manipulation, automation, and development of Python-based solutions. Experience with libraries such as NumPy, SciPy, pandas, and matplotlib is beneficial.
• Ability to communicate technical results clearly in both written and verbal formats.

Computer Skills

• Skills in operating a personal computer and standard office equipment
• Must have proficiency in a variety of computer software applications in word processing, spreadsheets, and database (MS Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)

COMPETENCIES

• Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems promptly; gathers and analyzes information skillfully; develops alternative solutions; works well in group problem-solving situations; and uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics.
• Written Communication - Writes clearly and informatively; edits work for spelling and grammar; varies writing style to meet needs; presents numerical data effectively; and able to read and interpret written information.
• Diversity – Shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences and promotes a harassment‑free environment.
• Ethics - Treats people with respect; keeps commitments; Inspires the trust of others; works with integrity and ethically; and upholds organizational values.
• Planning/Organizing - Prioritize and plans work activities; uses time efficiently; plans for additional resources; sets goals and objectives; organizes or schedules other people and their tasks if needed; and develops realistic action plans.
• Professionalism - Tactfully approaches others; reacts well under pressure; treats others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position; accepts responsibility for own actions; follows through on commitments.

LANGUAGE SKILLS

Ability to read, analyze, and interpret governmental regulations. Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the public.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS

Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations. Solid understanding of basic mathematical concepts and the ability to apply them in proposal development.

REASONING ABILITY

Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Ability to question activities and issues in all functional areas and make sound business decisions based on that data.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, talk, and hear. The employee is regularly required to write and type on a computer. The employee is frequently required to walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to stand; climb, or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Job duties are performed in a manufacturing/office environment utilizing standard office equipment such as a computer, photocopier, and telephone. The noise level in the work environment is usually low to moderate.

FOR OUR SERVICE MEMBERS AND VETERANS

SABG values the service Veterans and their family members have given to our country and we support the hiring of returning Service Members and military spouses. If you are a Veteran or wounded warrior and would like assistance with the employment process at SABG, contact our Recruiting team at [e-mail].

FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

If you are a person with a disability or a disabled Veteran and are applying for a job with SABG, we would like to ensure your application process goes as smoothly as possible. If because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, contact our Recruiting team at [e-mail] and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.

SALARY

$160,000k - $220,000k

Compensation at SABG is determined based on factors such as the role's requirements, education, certifications, skills, experience, geographic location, and market conditions. Final compensation is based on the specific qualifications and circumstances of each candidate.

SABG is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer Minorities/Women/Veterans/Disabled