Senior AI Systems Engineer & Technical Advisor

VTG Defense; McLean (VA); On-site; USD 170,000 - 250,000; Full time

Job summary

VTG Defense in McLean, VA is seeking an AI Technical Advisor / Principal Systems Engineer to lead advanced AI initiatives, evaluate frontier AI models, and guide integration across programs. The ideal candidate has 5+ years in AI/ML, government or large-scale enterprise experience, and a Master’s or PhD in a relevant field.

You will deliver technical briefings and collaborate with cross-functional teams. This role emphasizes technical leadership, research, and evaluating emerging AI

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, or a related technical discipline.
• 5+ years of post-graduate experience supporting AI, machine learning, or advanced technology initiatives.
• 5+ years of experience supporting government, national security, or large-scale enterprise technical programs.
• In-depth knowledge of frontier AI models, emerging AI architectures and domains, AI research methodologies, deployment of advanced AI models, adversarial or defensive AI techniques, AI model evaluation, or other advanced areas of AI research.
• Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership and subject matter expertise for AI and emerging technology initiatives.
• Evaluate frontier AI models, emerging AI capabilities, and evolving technology trends.
• Conduct technical research, analysis, and assessments to support strategic decision-making.
• Support systems engineering, technology integration, and R&D initiatives.
• Develop technical recommendations, reports, and executive-level briefings.
• Collaborate with government, industry, and cross-functional technical teams.

Skills

AI leadership

Technical leadership

Analytical skills

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Master's or PhD in CS/CE/EE/AI

Job description

VTG Defense in McLean, VA is seeking an AI Technical Advisor / Principal Systems Engineer to lead advanced AI initiatives, evaluate frontier AI models, and guide integration across programs. The ideal candidate has 5+ years in AI/ML, government or large-scale enterprise experience, and a Master’s or PhD in a relevant field.

You will deliver technical briefings and collaborate with cross-functional teams. This role emphasizes technical leadership, research, and evaluating emerging AI