Principal AI Software Engineer

Northrop Grumman Northrop Grumman · Aerospace · El Segundo, CA +2 · Software

Northrop Grumman is seeking a Principal AI Software Engineer to design, develop, document, test, debug, and deploy state-of-the-art AI/ML applications. The role involves integrating LLMs, NLP, computer vision, and other AI technologies into software development workflows, with a focus on responsible and explainable AI. The engineer will collaborate with cross-functional teams to deploy AI/ML solutions and design requirements for testing environments. Experience with AI models, LLM tools like vLLM, and rapid prototyping is required, along with an active US Government clearance.

What you'd actually do

  1. Design, develop, document, test, debug, and deploy state-of-the-art AI/ML applications.
  2. Collaborate with cross-functional team to deploy AI/ML solutions in development and production environments.
  3. Design and develop requirements for software development and software testing environments.

Skills

Required

  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related STEM degree with 5 years' experience OR Master's degree in Computer Science or related STEM degree with 3 years' experience
  • Experience with one of more AI models and algorithms: LLMs, DNN, genetic algorithms, embedding models, deep learning, etc.
  • Experience with using and deploying AI LLM tools such as: vLLM, opencode, aider, Azure OpenAI, etc.
  • Experience with working in large code bases containing multiple languages (e.g. monorepos)
  • Experience with developing requirements and working with software in an integration/requirement verification/testing environment.
  • Ability to carry out rapid prototyping and proof-of-concept demonstrations.
  • Understanding of software engineering best practices including source control and software architecture
  • Must have an active US Government clearance (with a background investigation within the past 6 years or enrolled into Continuous Evaluation).

Nice to have

  • Familiarity with AI models and their limitations.
  • Familiarity with DevOps/DevSecOps/MLOps concepts.
  • Familiarity with Linux-based operating systems.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently.
  • Experience in working with LLMs (e.g. prompt engineering, LLM development frameworks, fine tuning, quantization)
  • Ability to obtain and maintain US Government Top Secret clearance

What the JD emphasized

  • Must have an active US Government clearance
  • Secret

Other signals

  • LLMs
  • NLP
  • NLU
  • NLG
  • computer vision
  • image processing
  • responsible AI
  • explainable AI
  • AI/ML applications
  • AI LLM tools
  • vLLM
  • aider
  • Azure OpenAI
  • prompt engineering
  • LLM development frameworks
  • fine tuning
  • quantization