Cybersecurity Software Engineer - AI Safety

Obsidian; New York (NY); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Part time

Job summary

Obsidian is hiring cybersecurity-focused software engineers in New York City to enhance the safety of advanced AI models. The role involves writing prompts, evaluating model responses, and classifying conversations based on cybersecurity criteria.

Candidates should have a BS or MS in Computer Science or substantial experience in software engineering, alongside a strong grasp of cybersecurity principles. This part-time position offers flexibility and training in AI model workflows.

Qualifications

• A BS or MS in Computer Science or 5+ years of software engineering experience.
• Strong understanding of cybersecurity concepts and software systems.
• Strong judgment around security and handling of sensitive information.

Responsibilities

• Write expert‑level prompts for cybersecurity topics.
• Evaluate model responses for accuracy and content handling.
• Classify prompts and conversations using structured guidelines.

Skills

Cybersecurity concepts

Technical reasoning

Technical writing in English

Education

BS or MS in Computer Science

Job description

About the role

We're hiring cybersecurity‑focused software engineers to help make advanced AI models safer. You'll apply your security and engineering expertise to evaluate and strengthen how these models handle specialized cybersecurity topics. No prior AI/ML experience is required — we'll train you on the workflow.

What you'll do

• Write expert‑level prompts across specialized cybersecurity topics.
• Evaluate and annotate model responses for technical accuracy, helpfulness, and appropriate handling of sensitive content.
• Apply structured guidelines to classify prompts and conversations.

What we're looking for

• A BS or MS in Computer Science or a closely related field, or 5+ years of professional software engineering experience at a reputable tech company or startup.
• Strong understanding of cybersecurity concepts and modern software systems.
• Strong technical reasoning and writing in English.
• Sound judgment around security and the responsible handling of dual‑use information.

Nice to have

• Background in offensive security, penetration testing, vulnerability research, or related areas.
• Experience reviewing, grading, or red‑teaming technical content.

Project Timeline

• Start date: Immediate
• Commitment: Part‑time (15–25 hours/week, with flexibility up to 40 hours/week)