Senior Staff AI Software Engineer

Northrop Grumman

. Develop, document, test, debug, and deploy state-of-the-art AI/ML applications .

Posted 9/21/2026full-timeUnited StatesSenior💰 $192,800 - $289,200 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in developing and deploying AI/ML applications, with a strong focus on LLMs, advanced NLP, and software engineering best practices. Proven ability to collaborate across teams and contribute to responsible AI initiatives while maintaining high-quality standards.

Highest-signal resume keywords

AI/ML Application DevelopmentExperience with LLMs and Deep LearningProficiency in Python, C++, and JavaActive US Government Secret ClearanceFamiliarity with DevOps, DevSecOps, and MLOps

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

AI Models and AlgorithmsLLM Development FrameworksRapid PrototypingSoftware Testing EnvironmentsSource Control Best Practices

Soft Skills

CollaborationRelationship BuildingIndependent Work

Tools & Technologies

AI LLM ToolsLinux-based Operating Systems

Certifications & Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or STEMMaster’s Degree in Computer Science or STEMPhD in Computer Science or STEM

Industry Keywords

NLPNLUNLGSensor FusionData FusionComputer VisionExplainable AI

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

JavaLinuxPythonC++

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Develop, document, test, debug, and deploy state-of-the-art AI/ML applications
Collaborate with AI/ML and software engineers to deliver solutions
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deploy AI/ML solutions in development and production environments
Design and develop requirements for software development and software testing environments
Include LLMs, advanced AI-based NLP, NLU, NLG, AI-based decision-making, sensor fusion, data fusion, computer vision, and image processing in software development workflows
Develop sustainable, high-quality products
Perform rapid prototyping and proof-of-concept demonstrations
Build relationships with internal and external stakeholders
Contribute to responsible AI and explainable AI adoption

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or a STEM discipline from an accredited university with 14 years of experience; OR Master’s Degree with 12 years of experience; OR PhD Degree with 10 years of experience
Experience with AI models and algorithms, including LLMs, DNN, genetic algorithms, embedding models, and deep learning
Experience using and deploying AI LLM tools, including coding assistants, infrastructure, or similar tools
Experience working in large code bases containing multiple languages, such as monorepos
Experience developing requirements and working with software in integration, requirements verification, and testing environments
Ability to carry out rapid prototyping and proof-of-concept demonstrations
Understanding of software engineering best practices, including source control and software architecture
Active US Government Secret clearance with a background investigation within the past 6 years or enrollment in Continuous Evaluation
Familiarity with AI models and their limitations
Familiarity with DevOps, DevSecOps, and MLOps concepts
Proficiency in Python, C++, and Java
Familiarity with Linux-based operating systems
Ability to work independently
Experience with LLMs, including prompt engineering, LLM development frameworks, fine-tuning, and quantization
Ability to obtain and maintain US Government Top Secret clearance
History of research excellence, such as peer-reviewed publications or significant contributions to open-source ML libraries
U.S. Citizenship required for positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions

Benefits

Comp & perks

Relocation assistance may be available
Flexible work arrangements
Learning opportunities
Exposure to a wide variety of projects and customers
Friendly team environment
Retirement and Savings Plan
Group medical, dental and vision coverage
Life and disability insurance
Flexible spending accounts
Company paid holidays
Paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business
Potential overtime
Shift differential
Discretionary bonus
Potential Long Term Incentives for Vice President or Director positions