Demo

Lead Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning Engineer

Cherokee Federal
Reston, VA Full Time
POSTED ON 7/10/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 9/9/2026

Lead Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning (AI/ML) Engineer

This position requires an active TS/Sensitive Compartmental Information (SCI) clearance with the ability to obtain a Counterintelligence polygraph to be considered.

Cherokee Preting is looking for a Lead AI / ML Engineer to support the Defense Intelligence Agency's (DIA) Analytic Innovation Office. The AI / ML Engineer will support the delivery of end-to-end expertise for designing, developing, sustaining and modernizing mission-critical capabilities for the Chief Information Officer Enterprise Services Division (CIO 7) and Digital Modernization Accelerator (DMA) initiatives.

Please Note: This position is pending a contract award. If you are interested in a future with Cherokee Federal, APPLY TODAY! Although this is not an approved position, we are accepting applications for this future and anticipated need.

Compensation & Benefits:

Pay commensurate with experience.

Full time benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, and other possible benefits as provided. Benefits are subject to change with or without notice.

Lead Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning (AI/ML) Engineer Responsibilities Include:

  • Provides technical leadership for AI/ML development efforts under optional DMA and CIO7 tasks.

  • Leads design, development, and deployment of advanced AI/ML capabilities including agentic AI systems.

  • Ensure AI/ML systems comply with DIA Quality Assurance Framework (QAF) requirements.

  • Conducts model validation, bias testing, and performance optimization.

  • Coordinates with data scientists, software engineers, and mission stakeholders.

  • Stays current with emerging AI/ML technologies and recommends innovative solutions to mission challenges.

Lead Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning (AI/ML) Engineer Experience, Education, Skills, Abilities requested:

  • Must have at least eight (8) years' experience demonstrating and leading AI/ML implementation projects and establishing AI operations environments.

  • Must have a Master's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, or a related field is required.

  • Able to work independently with limited oversight

  • Experience leading small teams, strategic planning and mentoring junior staff

  • Must possess an active TS/SCI Clearance

  • Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal

Company Information:

Cherokee Preting (Preting) is a part of Cherokee Federal - the division of tribally owned federal contracting companies owned by Cherokee Nation Businesses. As a trusted partner for more than 60 federal clients, Cherokee Federal LLCs are focused on building a brighter future, solving complex challenges, and serving the government's mission with compassion and heart. To learn more about Preting, visit cherokee-federal.com.

#CherokeeFederal #LI-CK4 #IntelCareers

Cherokee Federal is a military friendly employer. Veterans and active military transitioning to civilian status are encouraged to apply.

Similar searchable job titles:

  • Principal AI Engineer

  • AI Solutions Architect

  • Machine Learning Technical Lead

Keywords:

  • Information Technology (IT)

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI)

  • Modernization

  • Technology Advancement

Legal Disclaimer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability or any other status protected under applicable federal, state or local law.

Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military installations.

Please Note: This position is pending a contract award. If you are interested in a future with Cherokee Federal, APPLY TODAY! Although this is not an approved position, we are accepting applications for this future and anticipated need.


We are an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, gender identity and sexual orientation. If you’d like more information about your EEO rights as an applicant under the law, please copy and paste the links to the following two sites: EEO Statement | EEO Poster

If you are an individual with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process, or are limited in the ability or unable to access or use this online application process and need an alternative method for applying, you may email “CNB.Compliance@cn-bus.com” for assistance. This email address is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the application process or status.

 

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