Forward Deployed Engineer

The RoleSkillSource, in partnership with Varron, is placing Forward Deployed Engineers with a fast-scaling AI client supporting Department of War missions. You are the engineer who ships in the room where the mission happens — embedded with military and defense-agency users, deploying and adapting AI/ML capabilities inside classified, bandwidth-constrained, and air-gapped environments where "just call the API" is not an option.What You'll DoDeploy, integrate, and sustain AI/ML systems (LLM, computer vision, data pipelines) on IL5/IL6 and air-gapped networks (SIPR/JWICS-class environments)Embed with operational users — COCOM staffs, program offices, and warfighting units — to translate mission problems into working software, fastOwn the last mile: data ingestion, model integration, ATO evidence support, containerized deployment (Kubernetes/Docker), and on-site troubleshootingAdapt commercial-side product to DoW constraints: disconnected operations, cross-domain workflows, and CUI/classified data handlingFeed field lessons back to core engineering as the voice of the mission userYou HaveActive TS/SCI clearance, eligibility for polygraph.4+ years software/ML engineering (Python strongly preferred; Go/C++ a plus)Hands-on deployment experience in DoD/DoW classified or disconnected environmentsComfort with Linux, containers, CI/CD, and infrastructure-as-codeThe temperament to operate solo forward: high agency, high judgment, low egoStrong SignalsPrior uniformed service or deployed contractor experienceFamiliarity with Platform One, Iron Bank, ATO/RMF processes, or DDS/CDAO ecosystemsExperience fielding CV/ISR analytics (Maven-adjacent work) or LLM tools to operational usersLogisticsFull-time placement with client · Competitive salary + equity (client-dependent) · Travel required to U.S. government and military customer locations; potential OCONUS travel depending on mission requirements.