Senior AI Software Architect & Tech Lead

Worky; Dayton (OH); Hybrid; USD 190,000 - 230,000; Full time

Job summary

FTI Defense is seeking a Distinguished AI Software Engineering Lead to serve as hands-on architect and integrator for mission-critical software and data platforms. You will drive secure, scalable solutions while mentoring teams and aligning with enterprise goals.

Role combines technical vision with hands-on design across AWS GovCloud, hybrid, and on-prem environments, emphasizing zero-trust, accreditation, and rapid modernization in defense contexts.

Qualifications

• Active security clearance or eligibility.
• (Bachelor's) in CS/SE or related field.
• 10–15 years progressive software engineering experience.
• 5+ years in leadership or architecture roles.
• Proven success in secure, distributed, cloud-native platforms.

Responsibilities

• Architect and deploy secure, distributed platforms for modular, multi-service environments.
• Design APIs, microservices, and data pipelines for interoperability across mission systems.
• Lead DevSecOps and IaC practices with Terraform, CloudFormation, or CDK.
• Build CI/CD pipelines with security, compliance, and automated testing.
• Ensure zero-trust, cross-enclave design and ATO/RMF readiness.
• Mentor engineers, align platform strategy with enterprise goals.

Skills

Python

Java

C++

TypeScript

AWS GovCloud

Terraform

CI/CD

MLOps

Zero Trust

Architecture

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Software Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Docker

Kubernetes

ArgoCD

Rancher

Terraform

CloudFormation

CDK

Job description

FTI Defense is seeking a Distinguished AI Software Engineering Lead to serve as hands-on architect and integrator for mission-critical software and data platforms. You will drive secure, scalable solutions while mentoring teams and aligning with enterprise goals.

Role combines technical vision with hands-on design across AWS GovCloud, hybrid, and on-prem environments, emphasizing zero-trust, accreditation, and rapid modernization in defense contexts.