Assistant AI Security Software Engineer

Carnegie Mellon University; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

8% employer retirement contribution

Tuition benefits

Flexible work arrangements

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Carnegie Mellon University is seeking an Assistant AI Security Software Engineer to enhance the security of AI systems through machine learning initiatives. The role includes developing innovative AI-security applications and collaborating with teams to implement effective solutions.

Ideal candidates will hold a bachelor’s degree and have expertise in software engineering and machine learning. Benefits include flexibility, professional development, and an 8% employer retirement contribution.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field required.
• Understanding of software-engineering principles and system design.
• Experience with containerization and microservices.

Responsibilities

• Develop prototypes for AI-security applications.
• Collaborate on experimental AI-security solutions.
• Process and model diverse cyber-security data sets.

Skills

Software engineering principles

Containerization

Machine learning

Cybersecurity practices

Education

Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related discipline

Job description

Overview

The CERT Division of the Software Engineering Institute (SEI) seeks an Assistant AI Security Software Engineer to research, develop, and deploy machine learning‑based solutions that advance the security and resilience of AI systems. The role focuses on AI red‑team, adversarial machine learning, generative AI, and large‑language‑model security, leveraging access to extensive cyber‑security data sets.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and prototype machine‑learning tools, systems, and prototypes for AI‑security applications.
• Collaborate with researchers and stakeholders to design, execute, and communicate experimental AI‑security solutions to both technical and non‑technical audiences.
• Apply software‑engineering best practices to build scalable, maintainable systems grounded in sound design principles.
• Process, analyze, and model large, diverse cyber‑security data sets—including malware, NetFlow, and incident data—using advanced analytics techniques.
• Support AI red‑team and adversarial machine‑learning initiatives with an innovative, research‑driven mindset.
• Translate research concepts into operational, practical capabilities, working independently and as part of a collaborative team.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, machine learning, cybersecurity, statistics, or related discipline.
• Understanding of software‑engineering principles and system design.
• Experience with containerization and microservices architectures.
• Ability to travel (5% of time) to SEI facilities, CMU community, sponsor sites, conferences, and off‑site meetings.
• Subject to a background check and required 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).
• Knowledge of cybersecurity best practices.
• Demonstrated ability to learn and adapt quickly to new technologies and domains.

Why Join Us

• Contribute to world‑class research that shapes national security strategy.
• 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 dependents.
• Flexible work arrangements and a strong work‑life balance.
• Paid parental and military leave.
• Professional development opportunities, including conference attendance and certifications.
• Qualification for relocation assistance.

Location: Pittsburgh, PA

Position Type: Staff – Regular, Full‑time

Pay Basis: Salary

Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.