Data Scientist, Level 3 with Security Clearance

Independent Software, Inc.; Maryland; On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health, Dental, Vision Insurance

401(k) Profit Sharing Plan

Paid Time Off

Paid training

Life Insurance

Job summary

Independent Software in Annapolis Junction, MD seeks a Data Scientist Level 3 to design, implement, and deploy AI/ML solutions for large-scale datasets. You will develop autonomous AI agents and apply reinforcement learning techniques to optimize performance.

Required are strong Python skills, experience with PyTorch/TensorFlow, LangChain, and working with LLMs on complex data projects. A TS SCI clearance is preferred but not listed here.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree plus extensive relevant experience in AI/ML
• Strong design/implementation/deployment experience with AI/ML
• Experience developing autonomous AI agents and RL-based solutions

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement AI and ML solutions for large-scale datasets
• Develop and deploy autonomous AI agents and apply reinforcement learning techniques
• Collaborate with mission teams to support operational objectives and translate model results into actionable insights

Skills

Python

AI/ML

LLMs

Prompt engineering

RAG

Data modeling

TensorFlow

PyTorch

LangChain

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree + 8 years of relevant experience

Master's degree + 6 years of relevant experience

Doctoral degree + 4 years of relevant experience

High school diploma or GED + 12 years of relevant experience

Associate's degree + 10 years of relevant experience

Tools

PyTorch

TensorFlow

LangChain

Job description

Who are we? Independent Software is a consulting, product, and solutions firm dedicated to the practical application of software and system engineering technologies to solve complex problems. We bring together world class engineers with proven engineering best practices, domain expertise, commercial technologies, and proven agile management approaches to create high value solutions aimed at helping our customers meet their most critical business and mission objectives. Why Independent Software? We are focused on continual learning and evolution. We don’t do things because “that’s the way we’ve always done things”; we listen to our employees and adapt to the changing marketplace. We look at the big picture and encourage our engineers to get training and certifications in emerging technologies that will help shape our customer’s mission. We’ve been profitable year after year. We’re always on the lookout for great engineers to join the team and we recognize that our employees are the heart and soul of what we do. We focus on recruiting talented people, treating them right, and then allowing them to do what they do best. No red tape. No micromanagement. Smart people want to work with smart people, and we love people who are passionate about what they do and finding ways to do it better.

Top Reasons to Work at Independent Software:

• Great people deserve even better benefits, from comprehensive healthcare coverage and generous leave time to discounts with all our vendors.
• You are not just a job title. That's why we tip the work-life balance scale in your favor. It's not about being billable, it's about being valuable.
• Whether you're working on-site or in our offices, your role at Independent Software is just as critical to our success as your coworker's.
• We're constantly researching and implementing the latest technology, so you've always got the right tools at your disposal.
• As we've grown, we've retained that small company feel. When we say we have an open-door policy, we actually mean it.
• Independent Software is comprised of wonderfully generous folks. We believe in supporting the causes our employees care about. Bring us an opportunity to help and we'll listen.
• Teamwork got us where we are today. Our collaborative environment allows you to maximize your true potential.
• The work we do is exciting, critical stuff. No matter your role at Independent Software, you're helping us keep the nation safe and secure.
• We have a history of great achievement, and, with each year, our company gets even bigger and better. As we grow, so does the opportunity for our employees.
• We host a variety of fun employee and family events throughout the year to say thanks for all that you do to make Independent Software a technology leader as well as a phenomenal place to work.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary
• Company Sponsored Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance plans
• Company Paid Long Term Disability, Short Term Disability and Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Your retirement plan is an important benefit you shouldn’t overlook. We offer a 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan and Trust that offers a powerful way to enhance your long-term financial well-being by investing in yourself. We offer immediate eligibility and company matching.
• A generous Paid Time Off and Holiday package
• Paid training! We encourage all employees to seek out training opportunities like conferences, certification courses and seminars.
• We truly believe the right work-life balance can exist, and it's here at Independent Software. Our work is extremely important, but your job is just a part of who you are. When you enjoy your life outside of our walls, you're at your best the next time you walk through our doors. We do all we can to assure that happens every day.

Independent Software is an Equal Opportunity Employer EOE, M/F/D/V.

Data Scientist, Level 3 Annapolis Junction, MD Full Time Data Modeling and Analysis Experienced.

What You Will Do:

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, develop, and implement AI and Machine Learning solutions for large-scale datasets * Develop and deploy autonomous AI agents * Apply reinforcement learning techniques to AI/ML solutions * Develop and optimize machine learning algorithms and neural network models * Evaluate and improve model performance, scalability, and efficiency * Develop solutions using Large Language Models (LLMs) * Apply prompt engineering and Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) techniques * Develop agentic AI workflows and reasoning systems * Use Python and AI/ML frameworks to develop scalable analytical solutions * Apply software development best practices, including version control and testing * Document technical approaches, model performance, and analytical findings * Collaborate with technical and mission teams to support operational objectives

Required Skills And Qualifications

• Strong experience with Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning * Experience designing, implementing, and deploying AI/ML solutions * Experience developing autonomous AI agents * Strong foundation in machine learning algorithms and neural networks * Experience with model optimization for scalable problem solving * Proficiency with Python * Experience with AI/ML libraries and frameworks such as PyTorch, TensorFlow, and/or LangChain * Experience working with Large Language Models (LLMs) * Experience with prompt engineering and Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) * Experience with agentic AI and reasoning systems * Experience working with large-scale datasets * Understanding of software development best practices, version control, and testing * Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree plus eight (8) years of relevant experience; OR
• Master's degree plus six (6) years of relevant experience; OR
• Doctoral degree plus four (4) years of relevant experience; OR
• High school diploma or GED plus twelve (12) years of relevant experience; OR
• Associate's degree plus ten (10) years of relevant experience

Degree must be in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Information Systems, or a related technical discipline.

Clearance Requirement:

• Must possess an active TS SCI with appropriate Polygraph to be considered for this role

Why Choose Independent Software:

• At Independent Software, our people are the mission. We’ve built a company around collaboration, integrity, and innovation and we make sure our team has the tools and support to grow, succeed, and thrive. When you join us, you will:
• Support critical national security missions that matter
• Be part of a close-knit, employee-first culture where your voice is heard
• Expand your skills through ongoing training, mentorship, and career development
• Enjoy competitive compensation, generous benefits, and work-life balance

We’re an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.