Machine Learning Engineer IV

General Atomics and Affiliated Companies; California (MO); On-site; USD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

General Atomics and Affiliated Companies is seeking a senior-level AI/ML architect to lead generative AI development, from design to deployment, across defense-grade systems. The role emphasizes responsible AI, data security, and cross-functional collaboration with data scientists and engineers.

The candidate will design AI solutions compliant with NIST 800-171, CMMC Level 2, and ITAR/EAR considerations, while integrating with GovCloud/Azure Government environments and CI/CD workflows.

Qualifications

• Advanced technical principles and methods in AI/ML design.
• Experience applying ML/AI across complex systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development and deployment of generative AI solutions.
• Collaborate with data scientists and engineers to deliver value while mitigating bias.

Skills

Generative AI

ML engineering

DevOps

AWS/Azure

Data privacy

Education

Bachelor's in CS/Engineering/Math

MS/PhD preferred

Tools

AWS

Azure

GovCloud

CI/CD

Job description

General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

Under consultative direction, this position plays a crucial role in shaping our AI strategy, driving generative AI development, maturing our machine learning platforms and processes, and ensuring excellence across our AI/ML initiatives. They will support our long-range strategy, goals, and objectives by designing and developing AI solutions using cloud and on-prem software platforms including Azure, AWS, and others as needed.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Generative AI Development

• Lead the design, development, and deployment of integrated custom solutions that leverage generative AI models using various design patterns including Prompting & Context Management, Responsible AI,RAG, Agentic & Multi-Agent workflows, and AI for data analytics.
• Collaborate with data scientists, engineers, and subject matter experts to create AI solutions that provide significant value to the company while keeping ethical considerations and bias mitigation as a priority.
• Design AI solutions with data-classification and sensitivity controls to prevent CUI/export-controlled data exposure to unauthorized environments.

Standards and Best Practices

• Establish coding standards, documentation practices, and quality assurance processes for AI/ML projects.
• Ensure compliance with industry best practices and security protocols such as but not limited to: NIST 800-171, CMMC Level 2, NIST AI RMF and the DoD Responsible AI principles.
• Foster close working partnerships with cyber, risk managementand other compliance stakeholders.

LLM Ops Integration

• Design and develop new processes to support the integration of AI/ML pipelines into our GovCloud / Azure Government / GCC High, IL4, CI/CD workflows.
• Automate model deployment, testing, monitoring, and scaling.
• Integrate into approved change control process
• Responsible for model administration, observability, and governance

AI Center of Excellence

• Support the design, build, and growth of our AI Agentic Platform Architecture.
• Drive innovation by staying abreast of AI trends and fostering a culture of continuous learning.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify new AI opportunities and pilot projects that align with business goals.
• Provide mentorship and technical guidance to other developers in ITS and the business, establishing a Community of Practice for AI.
• Provide second/third tier user support for AI solutions as needed.
• May act in a technical leadership role to lead cross-functional teams in the development and delivery of AI solutions.
• Responsible for observing all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company. Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.

Job Qualifications

• Typically requires a bachelors masters degree or PhD in computer science, engineering, mathematics, or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution and progressive machine learning experience as follows; nine or more years of experience with a bachelors degree, seven or more years of experience with a masters degree, or four or more years with a PhD. May substitute equivalent machine learning engineer experience in lieu of education.
• Must demonstrate the application of advanced technical principles, theories, concepts, and techniques in the design of machine learning and artificial intelligence solutions.
• Must be proficient with DevOps platforms and processes either cloud based or on-prem.
• Must be experienced with configurating and deploying solutions in AWS and/or Azure cloud platforms.
• Must have excellent organization skills including planning and coordinating work assignments to meet project milestones or completion dates.
• Should be familiar with ITAR/EAR standards or handing export-controlled technical data.
• Should be familiar with CUI, ITAR, and proprietary data regulations.
• Must be customer focused and possess:
  • the ability to identify and analyze issues and develop solutions to complex problems;
  • strong analytical, verbal and written communication skills to accurately document, report, and present findings;
  • strong interpersonal skill to interface with all levels of employees, management and external contacts; and
  • strong computer skills.
• Ability to work independently or in a team environment is essential.