AI Security Software Engineer

Carnegie Mellon University; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tuition benefits for employees and dep

Relocation assistance

Flexible work arrangements

Job summary

Carnegie Mellon University’s CERT Division seeks an AI Security Software Engineer to develop ML-based tools for AI security applications. You will collaborate with researchers and stakeholders to design scalable systems and to analyze large cybersecurity datasets, supporting red-teaming and adversarial ML efforts.

The role requires advanced degrees or equivalent experience, strong software engineering foundations, and the ability to travel up to 5% to sponsor sites and CMU locations.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience with a BS in CS/ML/Cybersecurity/Statistics
• Understanding of software engineering principles and system design
• Experience with containerization and microservices architectures
• Willingness to travel up to 5% to SEI/CMU sites for mission support
• Background check required and DoW security clearance eligibility

Responsibilities

• Develop ML-based prototypes, tools, and systems for AI security applications
• Collaborate with researchers to design and execute experimental AI security solutions
• Apply software engineering best practices to build scalable, maintainable systems
• Process and analyze large cybersecurity datasets using analytical skills
• Support AI red teaming and adversarial ML initiatives
• Translate research concepts into practical capabilities and work both independently and in teams

Skills

Software engineering principles

System design

Containerization & microservices

Background check eligibility

Education

BS in computer science / ML / cybersecurity / statistics

MS in same fields (5 years exp)

PhD in same fields (2 years exp)

Job description

The CERT Division of the Software Engineering Institute (SEI) is seeking applicants for the role of AI Security Software Engineer. Established in response to the Morris worm, CERT has been a leader in cybersecurity research, advancing the resilience of software systems and responding to sophisticated cyber threats. As AI becomes central to critical infrastructure, advancing its security and resilience offers a compelling opportunity to shape the future, impacting support of the national security mission.

Our team researches and develops tactics, techniques, and procedures necessary for the field of AI security. Our work includes experimental designs for large-scale AI security research programs, AI red teaming, and counter AI applications. Additionally, we work in generative AI and large language models, data visualization, security analysis of AI systems, and adversarial machine learning. We have access to a wide variety of cyber-related data, including malware samples, NetFlow data, cyber security training runs and tests, incident tickets, and more.

Artificial Intelligence Security Software Engineers at the SEI use software and machine learning engineering practices, data processing, and data analytics to help our researchers solve AI security challenges. In this role, you will work with our researchers and customers to develop machine learning based prototypes, products, and tools to solve and automate solutions to AI Security problems. You'll get a chance to work with elite AI and cyber security professionals and university faculty to build new technologies that will influence national AI and cyber security strategy for decades to come.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop machine learning–based prototypes, tools, and systems for AI security applications, demonstrating strong expertise in ML development and deployment
• Collaborate with researchers and stakeholders to design and execute experimental AI security solutions, communicating effectively across technical and non-technical audiences
• Apply software engineering best practices to build scalable, maintainable systems, grounded design principles
• Process and analyze large, diverse cybersecurity datasets (e.g., malware, NetFlow, incident data), using strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Support AI red teaming and adversarial machine learning initiatives, applying an innovative and research-driven mindset
• Translate research concepts into practical, operational capabilities, with the ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team

Minimum Qualifications

• BS in computer science, machine learning, cybersecurity, statistics, or related discipline with eight (8) years of experience; OR MS in the same fields with five (5) years of experience; OR PhD in the same fields with two (2) years of experience
• Understanding of software engineering principles and system design
• Experience with containerization and microservices architectures
• Travel to various locations to support the SEI’s overall mission. This includes within the SEI and CMU community, sponsor sites, conferences, and offsite meetings on occasion (5%).
• You will be subject to a background check and will need to obtain and maintain a Department of War (DoW) security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience applying statistical modeling and advanced data analytics techniques
• Background in developing AI/ML solutions in real-world settings
• Familiarity with applied machine learning domains (e.g., natural language processing, computer vision, autonomy, audio analysis)
• Experience and knowledge in cybersecurity best practices
• Demonstrated ability to quickly learn and adapt to new technologies and domains

Why Join Us

• Contribute to a world‑class organization with significant impact on software and national security
• Work with cutting‑edge technologies alongside leading experts in AI, cybersecurity, and software engineering
• 8% employer retirement contribution (no employee contribution required)
• Tuition benefits for employees and their dependent children
• Flexible work arrangements and strong work‑life balance
• Paid parental and military leave
• Professional development opportunities, including conference attendance and certifications
• Qualify for relocation assistance and so much more.

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.

Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well‑deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.

Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Location

Arlington, VA, Pittsburgh, PA

Job Function

Software/Applications Development/Engineering

Position Type

Staff – Regular

Full Time/Part time

Full time

Pay Basis

Salary

More Information

• Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.
• Statement of Assurance