AI/ML Research Scientist

Peraton; Basking Ridge (NJ); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Peraton Labs is seeking a self-motivated 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 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.

Qualifications

• MS with 6+ years or PhD with 3+ years 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 as 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 Secret clearance.

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

Machine learning

Optimization

Python

C/C++

Linux

Git

Docker

Kubernetes

PyTorch

TensorFlow

Communication

Independent work

Education

MS in CS/ECE or related

PhD in related field

Tools

PyTorch

TensorFlow

Docker

Kubernetes

Linux

Git

Job description

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of MS with 6+ years of experience or PhD with 3+ 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 Secret clearance

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 Labs is seeking a self-motivated 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