AI Software Engineer-Principal

NetSage; Maryland; On-site; USD 140,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

NetSage is seeking a Principal AI Software Engineer to design and deliver AI/ML solutions that enhance intelligence analysis and mission-focused capabilities.

The ideal candidate will lead the development and operationalization of AI-enabled applications using LLMs, modern software engineering practices, and cloud-native architectures to automate complex workflows. This role requires hands-on expertise in AI/ML, software architecture, and scalable delivery for security-focused missions.

Qualifications

• TS/SCI with polygraph security clearance.
• B.S. in Computer Science or related field; 11 years of relevant experience (alternative: Ph.D. with 7 years, M.S. with 9, A.S. with 13).
• Proficiency with object-oriented languages like Java and Python.
• Experience designing and developing AI/ML applications using modern software engineering methodologies.
• Experience working with LLMs and generative AI technologies.
• Experience with modern deep learning architectures (DNNs, RNNs, attention).
• Experience with ML techniques including classification, clustering, collaborative filtering, semantic search, and information retrieval.
• Experience using Jupyter Notebooks.

Responsibilities

• Design and deliver advanced AI/ML solutions that enhance intelligence analysis and operational decision-making.
• Lead development and operationalization of AI-enabled applications with LLMs and modern software practices.
• Translate emerging AI/ML technologies into scalable, production-ready solutions across missions.

Skills

Java

Python

AI/ML

LLMs

Deep learning

Cloud-native development

Education

B.S. in Computer Science or related field

Ph.D. in related field with 7+ years

M.S. in related field with 9+ years

A.S. with 13+ years

Tools

Jupyter Notebooks

Job description

At NetSage, we are more than a government contractor—we are a mission-focused partner dedicated to advancing national security through exceptional cyber expertise. We believe our success begins with our people, which is why we invest in and care for our employees. We know that employee retention is mission continuity, and we are committed to building long-term careers where our people can grow alongside our customers' evolving missions. Our employees enjoy meaningful work, competitive compensation, outstanding benefits, and opportunities to expand their skills across multiple mission areas. To learn more about our comprehensive benefits and what it's like to build your career at NetSage, visit our Careers page.

Job Description:

We are seeking a Principal Artificial Intelligence (AI) Software Engineer to design and deliver advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) solutions that enhance intelligence analysis and operational decision-making. In this role, you will lead the development and operationalization of advanced AI-enabled applications integrating machine learning, large language models (LLMs), and modern software engineering practices to automate complex workflows and deliver mission-focused capabilities. The ideal candidate for this position will possess deep expertise in AI/ML technologies, software architecture, and cloud-native application development, with a proven ability to translate emerging technologies into scalable, operational solutions.

Required Qualifications:

• TS/SCI with polygraph security clearance.
• A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Computer Science or a related field and eleven (11) years of relevant experience. Also acceptable are a Doctoral degree (PH.D.) and seven (7) years, a Master of Science (M.S.) degree and nine (9) years, or an Associate of Science (A.S.) degree and thirteen (13) years of relevant experience.
• Proficiency with object-oriented languages like Java and Python.
• Experience designing and developing AI/ML applications using modern software engineering methodologies.
• Experience working with LLMs and generative AI technologies.
• Experience with modern deep learning architectures, including deep neural networks (DNNs), recurrent neural networks (RNNs), and attention-based architectures.
• Experience with ML techniques, including classification, clustering, collaborative filtering, semantic search, and information retrieval.
• Experience using Jupyter Notebooks.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience implementing retrieval‑augmented generation (RAG), Model Context Protocol (MCP), and AI agent frameworks.
• Experience designing autonomous or agentic AI systems.
• Strong understanding of statistical modeling, probability theory, Bayesian inference, covariance analysis, and machine learning fundamentals.