Senior Applied AI Engineer III – Data Science & Analytics with Security Clearance

Black Eagle Defense; Fort Meade (MD); On-site; USD 209,000 - 266,000; Full time

Job summary

Black Eagle Defense in Fort Meade, MD is seeking a Senior Applied AI Engineer III to join a fast-moving AI team delivering mission-critical capabilities that enable analysts to make rapid, data-driven decisions. You will design AI-enabled analytics apps in Python, build LLM/RAG workflows, and transform complex datasets into actionable mission insights.

You will mentor junior engineers, work directly with mission customers, evaluate challenges, prototype AI/ML solutions, and integrate large-scale

Qualifications

• 12 years SWE experience in programs/contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related discipline.
• 4 years of additional SWE experience may substitute for a bachelor’s degree.
• Proven experience developing production-grade software using Python.
• Experience with data science, ML, or statistical analysis.
• Proficiency with core data science libraries (Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-learn) and AI/ML applications.
• Experience with SQL/Elasticsearch or other large-scale data platforms.

Responsibilities

• Design AI-enabled analytics applications using Python and modern software practices.
• Build LLM and Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) workflows for analysts.
• Collaborate with mission customers to understand datasets and tailor AI solutions.
• Transform complex datasets into actionable mission insights.
• Mentor junior engineers and help set technical direction for the team.
• Evaluate emerging AI/ML techniques for mission relevance.

Skills

Python development

Data science

Machine learning

Statistical analysis

Software engineering

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field

Tools

Pandas

NumPy

Scikit-learn

SQL

Elasticsearch

Job description

Job Description SALARY RANGE $209,000 - $266,000/year. DUTIES As a successful candidate for the Senior Applied AI Engineer III role, you will join a fast-moving AI team delivering mission-critical capabilities that enable analysts and operators to make rapid, data-driven decisions. In this position, you will combine data science, machine learning, and software engineering to design AI-enabled analytical applications, construct LLM and Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) workflows, and transform complex datasets into actionable mission insights. Working directly with mission customers, you will evaluate operational challenges, rapidly prototype AI/ML solutions, integrate large-scale data platforms, mentor junior engineers, and shape the team's technical direction. Required Skills SKILLS * Design and develop AI-enabled analytics applications using Python and modern software engineering practices

• Perform exploratory data analysis, feature engineering, statistical analysis, and machine learning on complex mission datasets
• Develop pattern-of-life, anomaly detection, clustering, and predictive analytics capabilities
• Build Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) and LLM-powered workflows to enhance analytical processes
• Collaborate directly with mission customers to understand datasets and develop tailored, AI-driven analytical solutions
• Integrate structured and unstructured data sources into scalable AI applications
• Evaluate emerging AI and machine learning techniques for mission applicability
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to overall technical direction across the team QUALIFICATIONS Twelve (12) years' experience as an SWE in programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity is required. A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related discipline from an accredited college or university is required. Four (4) years of additional SWE experience on projects with similar software processes may be substituted for a bachelor's degree. Additional requirements: * Proven experience developing production-grade software using Python
• Demonstrated background in data science, machine learning, or statistical analysis
• Proficiency with core data science libraries such as Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-learn, or similar tools
• Hands-on experience building functional AI or machine learning applications
• Strong analytical reasoning and technical problem-solving skills
• Experience working with SQL, Elasticsearch, or other large-scale data platforms
• Strong communication skills with the ability to convey technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Track record of collaborating directly with customers to solve analytical challenges Desired Skills NICE-TO-HAVES * Experience with LLMs, prompt engineering, or Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) architectures
• Experience with geospatial analysis, pattern-of-life analytics, or time-series analysis
• Experience with data visualization tools and interactive dashboard development
• Experience deploying machine learning models into production environments
• Experience supporting classified mission environments