Senior Research Engineer – AI/ML

ARA Brand; Raleigh (NC); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Ara is seeking a highly qualified Research Engineer in Raleigh, North Carolina. The role focuses on developing advanced AI/ML algorithms for the Intelligence and Defense communities, engaging in software tool development and modeling. The ideal candidate will have significant experience in multiple areas including machine learning and physics-based modeling, coupled with strong software skills in Python, Java, or C++. A PhD or MS in a relevant field is preferred. U.S. Citizenship and current TS/SCI clearance are required.

Qualifications

• 10-12 years of relevant work experience in engineering, computer science, or related fields.
• Strong foundation in software development; experience with Python, Java, or C++.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to translate solutions into algorithms.

Responsibilities

• Develop advanced AI/ML algorithms for military applications.
• Collaborate in a multi-disciplinary team to improve existing algorithms.
• Participate actively in evaluation of algorithm and system performance.

Job description

Job Overview

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 an experienced 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.

Qualifications

• U.S. Citizenship (No exceptions; green card holders are not eligible)
• Current TS/SCI clearance or TS/SCI eligible
• BS in Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or a related field with 10-12 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

Preferred Qualifications

• 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
• Experience leading small teams of researchers and engineers
• Experience with proposal development and sponsor interactions
• Ability and desire to quickly learn new domains.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
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