Research Engineer – AI/ML

ARA Brand; Raleigh (NC); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is seeking a Research Engineer to develop AI/ML algorithms across software tool development, physics-based modeling, and simulation. You will join a multidisciplinary team of engineers and scientists focused on national-importance problems.

The role emphasizes translating ideas into tools and production-ready algorithms, with strong emphasis on collaboration, problem solving, and clear communication within a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• BS in Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or related field with 2–4 years of relevant work experience.
• Experience in ML, physics-based modeling, simulation/optimization, uncertainty quantification, surrogate modeling, model reduction, computer vision, and intelligent agents.
• Strong software development foundation; experience with Python, Java, and/or C++.
• Experience taking a problem from statement to prototype to production-ready algorithms.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills for a team environment.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and debug software tools and algorithms for AI/ML applications.
• Translate ideas into software solutions and evaluate algorithm performance.
• Improve/optimize existing algorithms and develop new ones from scratch.

Skills

Machine Learning

Physics-based Modeling

Simulation & Optimization

Uncertainty Quantification

Surrogate Modeling

Model Reduction

Computer Vision

Intelligent Agents

Python

Java

C++

Education

BS in Engineering/CS/Physics/Mathematics

Tools

Python

Java

C++

Job description

Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is actively seeking a highly qualified Research Engineer for the development of advanced AI/ML algorithms for the Intelligence and Defense communities. Application areas include software tool development, physics-based modeling, machine learning, simulation and optimization, probabilistic modeling, computer vision, and intelligent agents. The scientist / engineer will join a multi-disciplinary collaborative team of engineers and scientists.

We are seeking a highly qualified Research Engineer to join our team. The ideal candidate will have an active interest in applying math/statistics/physics/engineering concepts to solve multi-disciplinary problems. Candidate will have strong analytical skills and will be capable of translating ideas and proposed solutions into software tools and algorithms. The candidate should be familiar with improving/optimizing/tuning existing algorithms as well as development of new algorithms from scratch. This will include software design, software development, and debugging / issue resolution. The candidate should demonstrate a hands‑on approach to problem solving and must be willing to actively participate in evaluation of algorithm and system performance. Strong critical thinking, problem solving, and debugging skills are required.

Scientists / engineers who are passionate about applying their expertise to solve problems of national importance, have a strong entrepreneurial spirit, and are seeking opportunities for personal and professional growth in a stable environment are strongly encouraged to apply.

Research Engineer – AI/ML Position Requirements:

• U.S. Citizenship (No exceptions; green card holders are not eligible)
• The nature of work (i.e. interactions with the intelligence community and DoD programs) requires eligibility to apply for and hold a US security clearance; selected applicants will undergo a security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements at the time of employment
• BS in Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or a related field with 2-4 years of relevant work experience
• Experience in one or more of the following areas: machine learning, physics-based modeling, simulation and optimization, uncertainty quantification, surrogate modeling and model reduction, computer vision, and intelligent agents.
• Strong foundation in software development and experience with Python, Java, and/or C++.
• Experience going from problem statement to prototype to production‑ready algorithms.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, capable of working effectively in a dynamic, team‑oriented environment.

Research Engineer – AI/ML Preferences:

Above all, we value passion, a continuous desire to learn, and teamwork. We are confident that if you possess the right attitude, work ethic, and skill set, you will succeed in the role. In addition to the experience and skills above, if you have any of the following, you will be able to accelerate your effectiveness and impact.

• PhD or MS in Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or a related field
• Experience in cloud‑based, parallel, or distributed computing.
• Experience developing generative AI, agentic AI, and/or LLM‑based systems
• Ability and desire to quickly learn new domains.
• Experience working on intelligence and DoD programs.
• Prior / existing DoD security clearance

Who is ARA?

Do you want to work for a purpose? Applied Research Associates, Inc. (aka ARA) is an employee‑owned international research and engineering company. We have been providing technically superior solutions to complex and challenging problems in the physical sciences since 1979. ARA has over 2,200 employee‑owners and continues to grow rapidly. Together, our offices throughout the U.S. and Canada provide a broad range of technical expertise in defense, civil, and health technologies, computer software and simulation, systems analysis, environmental technologies, and testing and measurement.

ARA also prides itself, on having a challenging culture where innovation & experimentation are the norm. The motto, “Engineering and Science for Fun and Profit” sums up the ARA experience. Employee ownership ensures you have a voice in what happens in the company. We are also very proud of our Women’s Initiative Network (WIN), whose purpose is to motivate, support, and encourage professional career development for women to maximize career and professional accomplishments.

To find out more about what the Software Enterprise Division has to offer, visit our website at: https://www.ara.com/benefits/