Job Description
An employer in the Alexandria, VA area is seeking a Top Secret AI/ML Software Engineer for a contract-to-hire opportunity. This role will focus on designing, developing, and deploying AI/ML-driven solutions that support critical national defense initiatives, including intelligent automation, agentic AI applications, and modernized operational systems. The engineer will build and maintain production-grade software and RESTful APIs using technologies such as Python, Java, Go, Rust, or Scala, while leveraging CI/CD pipelines, Git, Linux, and containerization tools like Docker and Podman to deliver secure, scalable solutions. Working closely with cross-functional teams, this individual will help design and enhance end-to-end systems that meet current mission requirements and support future capabilities. Qualified candidates will have at least 2 years of experience developing AI/ML systems and automation frameworks, experience with Agentic AI, a STEM degree, and an active Top Secret clearance (TS/SCI with polygraph preferred). This position requires working onsite five days per week.
We are a company committed to creating diverse and inclusive environments where people can bring their full, authentic selves to work every day. We are an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer that believes everyone matters. Qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment regardless of their race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital status, national origin, ancestry, genetic factors, age, disability, protected veteran status, military or uniformed service member status, or any other status or characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances. If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or recruiting process, please send a request to HR@insightglobal.com.To learn more about how we collect, keep, and process your private information, please review Insight Global's Workforce Privacy Policy: https://insightglobal.com/workforce-privacy-policy/.
Required Skills & Experience
Active Top Secret with SCI eligibility
Bachelor’s Degree (STEM preferred)
2+ years of experience building research applications using languages such as Python, Rust, Go, Scala, or Java
2+ years of experience building or maintaining production-grade RESTful APIs or software interfaces
2+ years of experience building production-level AI or ML systems, agents, or complex automation frameworks
1+ years of experience designing, configuring, and implementing software systems in support of operational environment
Nice to Have Skills & Experience
Experience with administration of CI/CD pipelines using Kubernetes, Docker, or Jenkins
Knowledge of acquiring client requirements and resolving workflow problems through automation optimization
Ability to participate in design and code reviews and work effectively with designers, back-end developers, and product managers
Ability to work with automated testing tools to perform testing and maintenance
TS/SCI clearance with a polygraph
Master's degree in CS or a STEM field
ML, AI, or Solution Architecture Certification
Benefit packages for this role will start on the 1st day of employment and include medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as HSA, FSA, and DCFSA account options, and 401k retirement account access with employer matching. Employees in this role are also entitled to paid sick leave and/or other paid time off as provided by applicable law.