AI Prompt Engineer

CACI International Inc; Ashburn (VA); Hybrid; USD 66,700 - 133,300; Full time

Job summary

CACI International Inc. in Northern Virginia is seeking a highly creative AI Prompt Engineer to join our BEAGLE ASF Team supporting CBP clients.

You will design, test, and optimize prompts for large language models to deliver high-quality outputs across diverse use cases. This role requires strong prompt engineering knowledge, experience with Python/TypeScript, and agile delivery within a geographically distributed team.

Qualifications

• U.S. citizenship and ability to pass CBP background investigation.
• Bachelor’s degree in CS/SE/IT or related field.
• Hybrid work schedule with onsite requirements in Ashburn, VA.
• 0–3 years of software development experience.
• 1+ year experience with Large Language Models (e.g., OpenAI GPT, Llama, Gemini).
• Experience with Python or JavaScript/TypeScript.
• Familiarity with prompt engineering techniques (few-shot, chain-of-thought, structured outputs, function calling).

Responsibilities

• Design, test, and optimize prompts for various generative AI models (LLMs).
• Iterative testing and analysis of prompt variations to drive improvement.
• Collaborate with multiple groups to integrate prompts into workflows.
• Stay updated on LLM, generative AI, and prompt engineering advances.
• Provide input on model fine-tuning and Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG) strategies.

Skills

Python

JavaScript/TypeScript

LLMs

Prompt engineering

Agile/Scrum

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Technology or related field

Tools

OpenAI GPT

Llama

Gemini

Vector databases

Job description

Job Title: AI Prompt Engineer

Job Category: Engineering

Time Type: Full time

Minimum Clearance Required to Start: None

Employee Type: Regular

Percentage of Travel Required: Up to 10%

Type of Travel: Local

The Opportunity

CACI is currently looking for a AI Prompt Engineer to join our BEAGLE (Border Enforcement Applications for Government Leading-Edge Information Technology) Agile Solution Factory (ASF) Team supporting Customs and Border Control (CBP) client located in Northern Virginia! Join this passionate team of industry-leading individuals supporting the best practices in Agile Software Development for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

As a member of the BEAGLE ASF Team, you will support the men and women charged with safeguarding the American people and enhancing the Nation’s safety, security, and prosperity. CBP agents and officers are on the front lines, every day, protecting our national security by combining customs, immigration, border security, and agricultural protection into one coordinated and supportive activity.

ASF programs thrive in a culture of innovation and are constantly seeking individuals who can bring creative ideas to solve complex problems, both technical and procedural at the team and portfolio levels.

More About This Role

We are seeking a highly creative, technically proficient, and detail-oriented Prompt Engineer to join our growing AI team. This pivotal role will be responsible for designing, testing, and optimizing prompts for Large Language Models (LLMs) to achieve high-quality, and reliable outputs for various use cases. You will be instrumental in translating complex requirements into effective AI interactions.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives on experimentation, understands how LLMs interpret language, and is passionate about unlocking the full potential of generative AI.

You will excel at developing innovative software solutions as part of a technically diverse and geographically disbursed team. A strong passion for AI technologies and experience with agile delivery and deploying software in short sprints.

Responsibilities

• Prompt Design & Optimization: Develop, refine, and iterate on prompts for various generative AI models (LLMs) to elicit desired behaviors, responses, and creative outputs.
• Iterative Testing & Analysis: Conduct testing to compare prompt variations, analyze results drive continuous improvement.
• Collaboration: Work closely with multiple groups to integrate prompts to streamline manual processes.
• Research & Development: Stay abreast of the latest advancements in LLMs, generative AI, and prompt engineering techniques.
• Fine‑tuning & RAG Support: Provide input and collaborate on strategies for model fine‑tuning and Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG) to further improve accuracy.
• Problem Solving: Debug unexpected model behaviors, identifying root causes within prompt structure, model limitations, or data context.

Qualifications

Required

• Must be a U.S. Citizen with the ability to pass CBP background investigation, criteria include, but not limited to:
  • 3‑year check for felony convictions
  • 1‑year check for illegal drug use
  • 1‑year check for misconduct such as theft or fraud
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Technology, or related field (equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of degree).
• Must be available to work a hybrid schedule with onsite requirements in Ashburn, VA.
• 0‑3 years of professional software development experience, internships, or relevant academic project work.
• 1+ year of hands‑on experience working with Large Language Models (e.g., OpenAI GPT series, Llama, Gemini) or other generative AI models.
• Experience with at least one programming language (Python, JavaScript/TypeScript).
• Familiarity with prompt engineering techniques (few‑shot, chain‑of‑thought, structured outputs, function calling).

Desired

• Problem‑solving skills, with a data‑driven approach to experimentation and optimization.
• Written and verbal communication skills, with an ability to articulate complex technical concepts clearly.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced, evolving environment.
• Exposure to RAG concepts, including embeddings and vector databases.
• Understanding of AI safety considerations (e.g., prompt injection, bias, data privacy).
• Exposure to Agile/Scrum development environments.

What You Can Expect

A culture of integrity. At CACI, we place character and innovation at the center of everything we do. As a valued team member, you’ll be part of a high‑performing group dedicated to our customer’s missions and driven by a higher purpose – to ensure the safety of our nation.

An environment of trust. CACI values the unique contributions that every employee brings to our company and our customers - every day. You’ll have the autonomy to take the time you need through a unique flexible time off benefit and have access to robust learning resources to make your ambitions a reality.

A focus on continuous growth. Together, we will advance our nation's most critical missions, build on our lengthy track record of business success, and find opportunities to break new ground — in your career and in our legacy.

Pay Range

There are a host of factors that can influence final salary including, but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education and certifications. Our employees value the flexibility at CACI that allows them to balance quality work and their personal lives. We offer competitive compensation, benefits and learning and development opportunities. Our broad and competitive mix of benefits options is designed to support and protect employees and their families. At CACI, you will receive comprehensive benefits such as healthcare, wellness, financial, retirement, family support, continuing education, and time off benefits.

The Proposed Salary Range For This Position Is

$66,700 - $133,300

CACI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic.