AI/ML Research Science SME

Peraton; Reston (VA); On-site; USD 176,000 - 282,000; Full time

Job summary

Peraton is seeking a senior AI/ML Research Scientist to advance ML‑driven modeling, simulation and analytics within the Labs. The role emphasizes research, prototyping and evaluating AI/ML‑based analytics to speed high‑fidelity MSA through surrogate models and optimization techniques.

You will work with a small team to translate customer needs into technical approaches, deliver reusable prototypes, and document results clearly through reports and presentations. TS/SCI eligibility preferred.

Qualifications

• Minimum of MS with 14+ years of experience or PhD with 10+ years of experience in Computer Science, Electrical and Computer Engineering, or closely related field.
• Expertise in machine learning and optimization techniques.
• Hands‑on experience with ML tooling such a PyTorch, TensorFlow.
• Knowledge of LLMs and agentic AI is a plus.
• Experience with modeling, simulation and analysis.
• Experience with developing surrogate models is a plus.
• Strong software development skills in Python, C/C++.
• Proficiency with Linux, Git, Docker and Kubernetes.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills (technical presentations + well‑structured documentation).
• Ability to work independently, manage ambiguity, and deliver tangible outputs in a research environment.
• US Citizenship is a requirement for this position.
• Willingness and eligibility to obtain TS/SCI clearance.
• Candidate will be required to travel to Basking Ridge, NJ as needed - expected at 25%.

Responsibilities

• Conduct applied research on AI/ML‑driven analytics using cutting edge machine learning and optimization techniques to expedite high‑fidelity modeling and simulations
• Design and implement prototypes that operationalize research into usable capabilities
• Work with teammates to translate customer needs into technical approaches, balancing novelty with feasibility and deployability
• Produce high‑quality technical documentation, briefings and presentations, and contribute to reports, proposals, whitepapers, and publications
• Maintain strong system hygiene: Linux‑based development, version control, containers, reproducibility, and clean software practices
• Learn and integrate new tools/technologies quickly to keep pace with evolving customer needs and emerging research

Skills

ML & optimization

Python

C/C++

Linux

Git

Docker

Kubernetes

Communication skills

Independent work

US Citizenship

TS/SCI clearance

Modeling & simulation

Surrogate models

LLMs

PyTorch

TensorFlow

Education

MS with 14+ years experience

PhD with 10+ years experience

Tools

PyTorch

TensorFlow

Linux

Git

Docker

Kubernetes

Python

C/C++

Job description

AI/ML Research Science SME

Job Locations

US-VA-Home

Responsibilities

Peraton Labs is seeking a self-motivated Senior AI/ML Research Scientist with a strong foundation in machine learning, optimization techniques and data analytics to help design and deliver next-generation ML-driven modeling, simulation and analysis (MSA) capabilities. The role focuses on research, prototyping and evaluation of AI/ML-driven analytics to expedite MSA including development of surrogate models to reduce simulation run times. The role requires a deep understanding of machine learning techniques and optimization algorithms and working with simulators.

You will work with a small team of research scientists to investigate challenging problems, develop optimization and AI/ML-based solutions, software prototypes and demonstrate performance through hands‑on evaluations. The ideal candidate thrives in an environment where they can independently drive technical work while communicating results clearly through presentations and written technical documents.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct applied research on AI/ML-driven analytics using cutting edge machine learning and optimization techniques to expedite high‑fidelity modeling and simulations
• Design and implement prototypes that operationalize research into usable capabilities
• Work with teammates to translate customer needs into technical approaches, balancing novelty with feasibility and deployability
• Produce high-quality technical documentation, briefings and presentations, and contribute to reports, proposals, whitepapers, and publications
• Maintain strong system hygiene: Linux-based development, version control, containers, reproducibility, and clean software practices
• Learn and integrate new tools/technologies quickly to keep pace with evolving customer needs and emerging research

#plabs26

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of MS with 14+ years of experience or PhD with 10+ years of experience in Computer Science, Electrical and Computer Engineering, or closely related field
• Expertise in machine learning and optimization techniques
• Hands‑on experience with ML tooling such a PyTorch, TensorFlow
• Knowledge of LLMs and agentic AI is a plus
• Experience with modeling, simulation and analysis
• Experience with developing surrogate models is a plus
• Strong software development skills in Python, C/C++
• Proficiency with Linux, Git, Docker and Kubernetes
• Excellent oral and written communication skills (technical presentations + well‑structured documentation)
• Ability to work independently, manage ambiguity, and deliver tangible outputs in a research environment
• US Citizenship is a requirement for this position
• Willingness and eligibility to obtain a TS/SCI clearance
• Candidate will be required to travel to Basking Ridge, NJ as needed - expected at 25%.

Preferred Qualifications

• History of peer‑reviewed publications, patents, open‑source contributions, or evidence of research impact in the relevant areas
• Current security clearance is a plus

Peraton Overview

Peraton is a next‑generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can't be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure.

Target Salary Range

$176,000 - $282,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.

EEO

EEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.