Lead AI/ML Scientist & Engineer - Hands-On Research, Prototyping

Job Description

About Arch Systems

Arch Systems, LLC is a dynamic and fast-growing technology company specializing in delivering data science, AI/ML solutions, and advanced systems engineering to federal agencies. We thrive at the forefront of innovation, solving complex data challenges with precision, agility, and mission-driven impact.

Position Overview

We are seeking a seasoned Lead AI Scientist/Engineer with demonstrated hands-on experience in research, prototyping, software development, and AI/ML engineering within federal environments. This role involves leading the end-to-end lifecycle of AI/ML solution development—from problem discovery and data exploration to model deployment and operationalization—supporting mission-critical applications across federal agencies. The ideal candidate will blend technical depth with leadership capability and a strong understanding of federal data ecosystems, security protocols, and compliance standards.

Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership

Define and execute AI/ML strategies aligned with federal mission priorities, data sensitivity levels, and cybersecurity mandates.

Lead and mentor cross-functional teams of data scientists, ML engineers, and AI researchers to deliver operational-grade solutions.

Champion innovation, engineering best practices, and technical rigor across programs.

Research, Development & Prototyping

Drive applied AI/ML research to tackle high-impact federal challenges in areas like threat intelligence, public safety, cybersecurity, and logistics optimization.

Lead the design, prototyping, and coding of machine learning models using Python, PyTorch, TensorFlow, and other modern frameworks.

Build, validate, and deploy prototypes in secure environments to demonstrate proof-of-concept solutions and iterate based on stakeholder feedback.

Model Development & Applied AI

Build and operationalize classification, prediction, anomaly detection, and NLP models for federal data applications.

Apply advanced techniques such as knowledge graph construction, semantic search, named entity recognition (NER), topic modeling, and summarization.

Leverage large-scale data systems for developing scalable, production-grade AI models.

Data Engineering & Infrastructure

Architect secure and efficient data pipelines for ingesting and processing structured and unstructured datasets.

Implement MLOps pipelines, containerization (Docker, Kubernetes), CI/CD workflows, and model monitoring tools in secure cloud/on-premise federal environments.

Optimize AI/ML deployments to integrate with existing legacy and modern federal systems.

Federal Stakeholder Engagement

Act as a technical lead interfacing with federal stakeholders, including program managers, technical directors, and acquisition teams.

Translate operational challenges into clear, achievable AI-driven solutions with measurable outcomes.

Lead technical discussions, briefings, and solution demonstrations with government partners and industry collaborators.

Innovation & Continuous Learning

Stay abreast of emerging technologies, federal standards (e.g., NIST, CMMC), and AI/ML research relevant to public sector missions.

Encourage a culture of continuous learning and innovation within the team.

Contribute to internal knowledge-sharing initiatives and external federal R&D forums.

QualificationsExperience

7+ years of experience in AI/ML solution development and deployment.

5+ years supporting federal programs or intelligence community (IC) initiatives.

Strong hands-on experience with R&D, prototyping, and developing production-grade AI/ML software.

Experience in secure environments and handling of sensitive or classified information.

Technical Expertise

Expert-level Python programming and experience with ML/DL libraries: PyTorch, TensorFlow, scikit-learn.

Strong foundation in NLP, semantic search, vector databases, and knowledge graphs.

Proficiency in distributed computing (Spark, Ray, Dask) and data wrangling at scale.

Hands-on experience with containerized ML deployments (Docker, Kubernetes) and MLOps workflows.

Experience integrating AI solutions into complex federal architectures and legacy systems.

Domain Knowledge

Understanding of federal cybersecurity requirements (e.g., RMF, CMMC), and Zero Trust principles.

Familiarity with federal data domains such as GEOINT, SIGINT, OSINT, and cyber operations.

Leadership & Communication

Proven ability to lead technical teams, manage priorities, and deliver high-impact AI solutions.

Experience engaging with federal government executives, program offices, and contracting officials.

Strong documentation and communication skills; ability to convey complex concepts to non-technical audiences.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, or a related technical field.

Master’s or PhD preferred.

Desired Skills

Active Federal Security Clearance (Secret or higher preferred).

Experience supporting AI initiatives for civilian agencies, defense contractors, or national security programs.

Published research or federal whitepapers in AI/ML domains.

Familiarity with responsible AI, model interpretability, and AI ethics in government settings.

Why Join Arch Systems?

Work on mission-critical AI solutions that directly support national interests.

Join a collaborative, elite team of AI professionals driving real-world impact.

Enjoy remote flexibility, competitive pay, and comprehensive benefits.

Be part of a fast-growing company committed to innovation, inclusion, and excellence in public sector technology.Company Description

HIGH Growth, small business. Check us out at

Arch Systems LLC is committed to diversity in its workforce and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Arch Systems LLC considers qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, sex, gender expression or identity, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected class. Arch Systems LLC is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer.

Full-time