Principal Transportation Data and AI Architect

Battelle; Virginia (MN); Hybrid; USD 155,000 - 220,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work schedule 60% in-office / 4

Tuition assistance

401(k) retirement plan with employer 5

Job summary

Battelle is seeking a Principal Transportation Data & AI Architect for a full-time role in the DC Metro region (Hybrid). The position advances data-informed decision-making through scalable analytics and AI-enabled transportation solutions across federal, state, and commercial clients.

You will lead data architecture, governance, and AI initiatives, transforming transportation data into actionable insights, and guiding enterprise data platforms, federated architectures, and dashboards for

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Engineering, Statistics, Information Systems, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in data architecture, data engineering, analytics, AI/ML, or related technical disciplines.
• Demonstrated experience managing large, complex datasets and enterprise-scale data environments.
• Expertise in data governance, data integration, data quality, and metadata management.
• Experience developing and deploying machine learning and AI solutions.
• Proficiency with Python, SQL, cloud-based data platforms, and modern analytics technologies.
• Strong communication and leadership skills with the ability to engage both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Willingness to travel as required.
• Applicants must have authorization to work in the United States. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of any employment Visa at this time.

Responsibilities

• Developing and overseeing advanced analytics, machine learning, and AI applications that support operational decision-making, automation, and system optimization.
• Guiding the implementation of AI-enabled transportation solutions, including predictive analytics, intelligent monitoring, and decision support tools.
• Designing and implementing enterprise data architectures supporting transportation operations, planning, and performance management.
• Leading the development of roadway data ecosystems that integrate data from infrastructure, vehicles, sensors, operational systems, and external partners.
• Designing scalable data platforms, pipelines, and federated architectures that enable data sharing across agencies and stakeholders while maintaining local ownership and control.
• Establishing data governance, quality, metadata, security, and stewardship frameworks that promote trusted and interoperable data.
• Supporting transportation performance measurement initiatives by developing data strategies, dashboards, and analytical frameworks.
• Evaluating emerging technologies and standards related to digital infrastructure, connected transportation systems, and artificial intelligence.
• Serving as a trusted advisor to clients, program managers, and senior leadership on data and AI strategy.

Skills

Data architecture

AI/ML

Python

SQL

Cloud platforms

Leadership

Communication

Travel

US work authorization

Education

Bachelor's degree in Data Science/CS/Engineering

Advanced degree preferred

Tools

Python

Cloud platforms

Job description

Battelle delivers when others can't. We conduct research and development, manage national laboratories, design and manufacture products and deliver critical services for our clients - whether they are a multi-national corporation, a small start-up or a government agency.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.

Job Summary

We are currently seeking a Principal Transportation Data & AI Architect. This position is a full-time opportunity located in the DC Metro region (Hybrid).

Within Battelle's Infrastructure Safety & Security (ISS) Division, we support federal, state, and commercial clients in advancing safe, secure, and resilient transportation systems.

The Principal Transportation Data & AI Architect will help shape the future of digital transportation by enabling trusted data sharing, scalable analytics, and AI-driven operations across increasingly connected transportation ecosystems. This role serves as a key contributor to advancing data-informed decision-making, operational performance, and the deployment of next-generation digital infrastructure.

The selected candidate will combine expertise in data architecture, governance, analytics, and artificial intelligence to transform complex transportation data into actionable insights and scalable operational capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Developing and overseeing advanced analytics, machine learning, and AI applications that support operational decision-making, automation, and system optimization
• Guiding the implementation of AI-enabled transportation solutions, including predictive analytics, intelligent monitoring, and decision support tools
• Designing and implementing enterprise data architectures supporting transportation operations, planning, and performance management
• Leading the development of roadway data ecosystems that integrate data from infrastructure, vehicles, sensors, operational systems, and external partners
• Designing scalable data platforms, pipelines, and federated architectures that enable data sharing across agencies and stakeholders while maintaining local ownership and control
• Establishing data governance, quality, metadata, security, and stewardship frameworks that promote trusted and interoperable data
• Supporting transportation performance measurement initiatives by developing data strategies, dashboards, and analytical frameworks
• Evaluating emerging technologies and standards related to digital infrastructure, connected transportation systems, and artificial intelligence
• Serving as a trusted advisor to clients, program managers, and senior leadership on data and AI strategy

Key Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Engineering, Statistics, Information Systems, or a related field
• 10+ years of experience in data architecture, data engineering, analytics, AI/ML, or related technical disciplines
• Demonstrated experience managing large, complex datasets and enterprise-scale data environments
• Expertise in data governance, data integration, data quality, and metadata management
• Experience developing and deploying machine learning and AI solutions
• Proficiency with Python, SQL, cloud-based data platforms, and modern analytics technologies
• Strong communication and leadership skills with the ability to engage both technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Willingness to travel as required
• Applicants must have authorization to work in the United States. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of any employment Visa at this time.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in a relevant field
• PMP Certification
• Experience with transportation systems, ITS, TSMO, connected vehicle programs, roadway digital infrastructure, or transportation performance management
• Experience implementing federated data architectures and multi-stakeholder data-sharing environments
• Knowledge of Generative AI, large language models, MLOps, and AI governance practices
• Experience supporting federal, state, or regional transportation agencies

Compensation Data

Battelle is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. The salary range for this role is $154,500 - $220,200 per year, in addition to our comprehensive benefits package. A candidate's salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to education, relevant work experience, skills, and certifications. Salary ranges may vary based on geographic location and market conditions.

Benefits: Live an Extraordinary Life

• Balance life through a compressed work schedule: Most of our team follows a flexible, compressed work schedule that allows for every other Friday off - giving you a dedicated day to accomplish things in your personal life without using vacation time.
• Enjoy enhanced work flexibility, including a hybrid arrangement: You have options for where and when you work. Our Together with Flexibility model allows you to work 60% in-office and 40% remote, with Monday and Tuesday as common in-office days, dependent on team and position needs.
• Take time to recharge: You get paid time off to support work-life balance and keep motivated.
• Prioritize wellness: Stay healthy with medical, dental, and vision coverage with wellness incentives and benefits plus a variety of optional supplemental benefits.
• Better together: Coverage for partners, gender-affirming care and health support, and family formation support.
• Build your financial future: Build financial stability with an industry-leading 401(k) retirement savings plan. For most employees, we put in 5 percent whether you contribute or not, and match your contributions on top of that.
• Advance your education: Tuition assistance is available to pursue higher education.

A Work Environment Where You Succeed

For brilliant minds in science, technology, engineering and business operations, Battelle is the place to do the greatest good by solving humanity’s most pressing challenges and creating a safer, healthier and more secure world.

• Apply your talent to challenging and meaningful projects
• Receive select funding to pursue ideas in scientific and technological discovery
• Partner with world-class experts in a collaborative environment
• Nurture and develop the next generation of scientific leaders
• Give back to and improve our communities

Vaccinations & Safety Protocols

Battelle may require employees, based on job duties, work location, and/or its clients’ requirements to follow certain safety protocols and to be vaccinated against a variety of viruses, bacteria, and diseases as a condition of employment and continued employment and to provide documentation that they are fully vaccinated. If applicable, Battelle will provide reasonable accommodations based on a qualified disability or medical condition through the Americans with Disabilities Act or the Rehabilitation Act or for a sincerely held religious belief under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (and related state laws).

Battelle is an equal opportunity employer. We provide employment and opportunities for advancement, compensation, training, and growth according to individual merit, without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, age, genetic information, disability, veteran-status veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable Federal, state, or local law. Our goal is for each staff member to have the opportunity to grow to the limits of their abilities and to achieve personal and organizational objectives. We will support positive programs for equal treatment of all staff and full utilization of all qualified employees at all levels within Battelle.

The above statements are intended to describe the nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, activities and skills required of staff members. No statement herein is intended to imply any authorities to commit Battelle unless special written permission is granted by Battelle's Legal Department.

For more information about our other openings, please visit www.battelle.org/careers