John H. Northrop & AssociatesVerified Source

Senior Defense Technologist, AI/ML & Systems Engineering for DoD

170K–180K
Onsite · Washington, District of Columbia
Posted August 14, 2026
full-time

Overview

Top Secret clearance with cross-domain defense expertise to translate emerging technologies into actionable insights for senior leaders and engineers. Own cross-service technical assessments spanning autonomy, AI/ML, sensing, C3, and platform technologies. Collaborate with MBSE, modeling and simulation teams, and operational planners to shape defense concept of operations and future force concepts. Work within Aether Aerospace to deliver advanced manufacturing and technology-enabled services to national security customers.

What You'll Do8

  • 1Lead research and assessments across multiple defense tech areas including AI/ML, autonomy, sensing, and fires to inform strategy and program decisions
  • 2Develop cross-service, cross-domain technical insights aligned with CONOPS, CONEMP, DOTMLPF, and warfighter needs
  • 3Rapidly evaluate new technologies, identify military applications, and map integration paths with current or future force designs
  • 4Engage MBSE practitioners and M&S teams to parameterize and implement technologies in analytical tools and simulations
  • 5Collaborate with engineers, PMs, planners, and service reps to ensure assessments align with doctrine and acquisition processes
  • 6Produce concise, technically rigorous analyses for technical and non-technical audiences, including senior leaders
  • 7Provide thought leadership on multi-domain operations and future force concepts across the enterprise
  • 8Maintain compliance with classification, data handling, and disclosure requirements

Requirements10

  • 1Active Top Secret security clearance with SCI and SAP/CAP eligibility
  • 2Bachelor's degree in Mathematics, Operations Research, Statistics, Computer Science, Management Science, or Physics
  • 37+ years of experience in operations research focused on mission engineering, systems engineering, or operational analysis
  • 45+ years of experience with mission planning and analysis including CONOPS, OPLANs, CONEMP, and CONEMP
  • 53+ years collaborating with diverse teams including engineering and operational planners to accomplish complex tasks
  • 62+ years of experience in military or defense sectors related to joint operations, R&D, S&T, or mission planning
  • 7Experience with MS&A techniques to support operational planning or mission design in defense contexts
  • 8Broad knowledge of defense technologies, systems engineering, and military concepts
  • 9Strong communication skills capable of distilling complex topics for diverse audiences
  • 10Ability to learn rapidly and apply insights within analytical or conceptual frameworks

Salary Insight

$170 - $180k per year

Location

Typeonsite
LocationWashington, District of Columbia

Required Skills

Top Secret clearanceBachelor's degree in MathematicsOperations ResearchMission PlanningModeling and SimulationMBSE collaborationDefense sector knowledgeTechnical depth in autonomy
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