Data Scientist / AI Engineer

Description Background Information: Innovative Defense Technologies(IDT), provider of cutting-edge cloud-based integration, automated testing and data analysis for complex, mission-critical systems in the US Department of Defense (DOD), is seeking a Data Scientist/AI Engineer to be based in our Arlington, VA or Mount Laurel, NJ office. Leveraging advanced software automation, model-based systems engineering (MBSE), and AI-driven capabilities, IDT accelerates capability development, enhances operational readiness, and reduces lifecycle costs for the Department of Defense. The company is dedicated to transforming defense systems through innovation, efficiency, and mission-critical results. Overview: The Data Scientist position offers an engineer the opportunity to showcase their knowledge and talents as part of a collaborative team developing innovative AI and Data Analysis solutions for Innovative Defense Technologies. The responsibilities of this role include leading and supporting feasibility studies, building capabilities to discover explanatory features in high-dimensionality datasets, and developing and integrating state-of-the-art AI/ML solutions to support mission-critical software capabilities. All applicants must be able to obtain/maintain an active U.S. Security Clearance. Responsibilities Include: • Develop solutions to deliver analytical and AI/ML capabilities from problem formulation to a productized, deployable, maintainable capability • Leverage state-of-the-art theory and technologies to solve complex problems • Establish and leverage Big Data frameworks to store, extract and analyze relevant data • Develop software solutions by understanding customer requirements and program intent • Determine operational feasibility by evaluating analysis, problem definition, requirements, solution development, and proposed solutions • Be responsible for solutions that meet software design, quality, and performance requirements • Work with minimal supervision in a collaborative work environment to implement best-in-class solutions Minimum Required Qualifications: • Bachelor’s Degree in Statistics, Data Science, Computer Science, Math, or a quantitative field required; Master’s Degree in Data Science or other technical field highly preferred • 3+ years of experience in predictive modeling, data science and analysis Required Skills: • Previous experience in a ML or data scientist role and a track record of building ML and Data Science capabilities • Experience working with data mining and ML algorithms including decision trees, probability networks, association rules, clustering, and neural networks • Experience in and knowledge of mathematical optimization techniques, non-linear programming, evolutionary and biologically-inspired optimization algorithms • In-depth understanding and knowledge of statistical analysis, sampling, statistical learning theory, and Design of Experiments (DOE) • Strong proficiency in Python • Experience using ML libraries, such as scikit-learn, PyTorch, Keras, etc. • Knowledge of data and information visualization principles and experience using related tools Preferred Skills: • Strong software engineering background • Skills with other programming languages, such as Julia, Java or C/C++ • Demonstrated ability to develop experimental and analytic plans for data modeling processes, use of strong baselines, ability to accurately determine cause and effect relations • Experience with application container platforms • Familiarity with continuous integration/delivery tools (e.g. Jenkins) • Familiarity with version control tools (e.g. Subversion, Git, etc.) • Familiarity with VMware or other virtualization software • Experience developing applications for DOD command and control systems • Familiarity with Large Language Models (LLM) and LLM parameter tuning • Familiarity with network science and graph theory Competencies: • Solid analytical abilities, coupled with a strong sense of ownership, urgency, and drive • Attention to detail • Strong sense of intellectual curiosity and desire to learn • Initiative, creativity, reliability, teamwork • Ability to deal well with ambiguity, prioritize needs, and deliver results in a dynamic environment Price range: $90,000 - $150,000 or $114,000 - $184,000 • Pursuant to New Jersey Senate Bill 2310, IDT is required to disclose the “pay scale” or “pay range” associated with a job posting. Notably, however, this amount may not be reflective of actual compensation that may be earned as pay is dependent on a candidate’s experience, skills, and education. The posted range does not include bonuses, commissions, tips, or other benefits. Click here for additional information about New Jersey Senate Bill 2310. IDT is often looking to place multiple candidates at various levels. Therefore, more than one pay range has been included, commensurate with experience. EEO Statement: IDT is an Equal Opportunity employer.