Artificial Intelligence Subject Matter Expert (SME)

Agile Defense; Reston (VA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive and comprehensive benefits package

Job summary

A technology solutions provider in Reston, VA, is seeking an Artificial Intelligence Subject Matter Expert (SME) to enhance cybersecurity capabilities. This role focuses on the operational evaluation of AI technologies within the Security Operations Center, requiring a minimum of 5 years in machine learning and data science, with advanced proficiency in Python. The ideal candidate will hold a Top Secret clearance and possess hands-on experience with various AI tools and frameworks. A hybrid work schedule is available, along with a comprehensive benefits package.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in ML, Data Science, or AI engineering; 2+ years focused on Generative AI and LLMs.
• Deep expertise in machine learning, deep learning, and statistical modeling.
• Advanced Python proficiency; production-grade software development experience.

Responsibilities

• Deliver support services for AI application testing and evaluation.
• Conduct operational testing to identify capability gaps in AI solutions.
• Assist in developing protective measures against AI-driven threats.

Skills

Machine Learning

Deep Learning

Statistical Modeling

Python

MLOps

Cyber Risk Assessment

Education

Bachelor's of Science in Mathematics or equivalent

Tools

Splunk

Cribl

Elastic

Sentinel

Azure AI

AWS Bedrock

Google Vertex AI

Job description

At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges require new solutions. That’s why we always look to the future and embrace change with an unmovable spirit and the courage to build for what comes next.

Our vision is to bring adaptive innovation to support our nation's most important missions through the seamless integration of advanced technologies, elite minds, and unparalleled agility—leveraging a foundation of speed, flexibility, and ingenuity to strengthen and protect our nation’s vital interests.

Requisition #: 1504

Job Title: Artificial Intelligence Subject Matter Expert (SME)

Job Title for Careers Page: Artificial Intelligence Subject Matter Expert (SME)

Location: Reston, VA

Clearance Level: Top Secret

SUMMARY

The AI SME serves as the organization’s lead expert in applying Artificial Intelligence within the Security Operations Center (SOC), transforming emerging AI technologies into operational capabilities that enhance threat detection, response, and overall cyber defense.

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Deliver support services related to testing, reporting, and assessing a range of AI applications.
• Conduct operational testing and evaluation of AI to determine capability gaps and uncover vulnerabilities in deployed AI solutions.
• Review current cyber defense posture, identify vulnerabilities to AI‑driven threats and assist in developing and implementing protective measures.
• Provide SOPs, testing plans, and methodologies used, as well as reports outlining findings and actionable recommendations for remediation. This reporting shall include SOP development, identification of the methods employed, and findings accompanied by actionable corrective measures.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s of Science, Mathematics, or equivalent experience

ADDITIONAL SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED SKILLS

• Top Secret Clearance
• 5+ years in ML, Data Science, or AI engineering; 2+ years focused on Generative AI and LLMs
• Deep expertise in machine learning, deep learning, and statistical modeling
• Hands‑on experience with LLM frameworks, vector databases, and prompt engineering
• Advanced Python proficiency; production‑grade software development experience
• MLOps and cloud AI platform experience (Azure AI, AWS Bedrock, Google Vertex AI)
• Proven track record taking AI solutions from PoC to production
• Experience in assessing cyber risk and functionality of AI solutions
• Experience in incorporating automation and artificial intelligence into cyber programs
• Experience with data analytic software such as Splunk, Cribl, Elastic and Sentinel

PREFERRED SKILLS

• Open‑source contributions or published AI research
• Experience with edge/low‑latency model optimization
• Certifications in AI Ethics, Responsible AI, or Cloud AI Architecture
• Familiarity with adversarial AI testing and red‑teaming

WORKING CONDITIONS

Hybrid schedule in Reston, VA

Employees of Agile Defense are our number one priority, and the importance we place on our culture here is fundamental. Our culture is alive and evolving, but it always stays true to its roots. Here, you are valued as a family member, and we believe that we can accomplish great things together. Agile Defense has been highly successful in the past few years due to our employees and the culture we create together.

What makes us Agile? We call it the 6Hs, the values that define our culture and guide everything we do. Together, these values infuse vibrancy, integrity, and a tireless work ethic into advancing the most important national security and critical civilian missions. It's how we show up every day. It's who we are.

We also believe in supporting our employees by offering a competitive and comprehensive benefits package. To explore the benefits we offer, please visit our website under the Careers section.

Happy - Be Infectious.

Happiness multiplies and creates a positive and connected environment where motivation and satisfaction have an outsized effect on everything we do.

Helpful - Be Supportive.

Being helpful is the foundation of teamwork, resulting in a supportive atmosphere where collaboration flourishes, and collective success is celebrated.

Honest - Be Trustworthy.

Honesty serves as our compass, ensuring transparent communication and ethical conduct, essential to who we are and the complex domains we support.

Humble - Be Grounded.

Success is not achieved alone, humility ensures a culture of mutual respect, encouraging open communication, and a willingness to learn from one another and take on any task.

Hungry - Be Eager.

Our hunger for excellence drives an insatiable appetite for innovation and continuous improvement, propelling us forward in the face of new and unprecedented challenges.

Hustle - Be Driven.

Hustle is reflected in our relentless work ethic, where we are each committed to going above and beyond to advance the mission and achieve success.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities