Senior Software Engineer (AI/ML)

540 is seeking a Senior Software Engineer (AI/ML) to support our partnership with Google and the Department of War in advancing mission-critical capabilities for a global data processing platform. This platform leverages Machine Learning, modern cloud and containerized technologies to ingest, process, and analyze high-volume, time-series data.The system leverages cloud-native infrastructure, while incorporating AI/ML capabilities to enhance signal analysis, anomaly detection, and data-driven insights. Engineers on this team build and scale full-stack features across user interfaces, backend services, and data pipelines that power mission-critical analytics. You'll play a key role in integrating AI/ML-driven capabilities into production systems, enabling faster, more accurate operational decision-making.Location: Patrick SFB, FL or Arlington, VA. Candidates should be local to either location. Onsite support may be required based on mission and customer needs. Travel up to 25%Citizenship & Clearance Requirement: Per client requirements, candidates must be U.S. Citizens with an active DoW clearance with TS/SCI eligibilityEducation Requirement: Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or related field (preferred)540 Internal Thrive Level: Senior Software EngineerWHY 540?540 is a forward-thinking company that the government turns to in order to #getshitdone. We don't just talk about innovation – we deliver it. We break down barriers, build impactful technology, and solve mission-critical problems.HOW YOU'LL DRIVE IMPACTDesign and develop machine learning models and applications for deployment to cloud-native servicesCollaborate with data engineers and data scientists to productionize machine learning models and data pipelinesCollaborate with a cross-functional team of architects, engineers, and scientists to design and deploy Machine Learning Operations (MLOps) at scale Integrate AI/ML capabilities into production systems (e.g., model inference APIs, decision-support features, anomaly detection workflows)Design and optimize data models and persistence layers to support both transactional and analytical workloadsEnable intelligent application behavior by delivering AI and ML features to user-facing applicationsContribute to technical design documentation and system architecture artifactsLead or participate in code reviews, testing, and troubleshooting to ensure high-quality softwareDrive system reliability through robust testingImprove system performance, scalability, and reliability as the platform evolvesREQUIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE8+ years of professional software development experienceExperience developing microservices in containerized environmentsExperience with, or a strong conceptual understanding of, LLM-based applications, RAG pipelines, and AI-driven decision systemsExperience with PythonExperience working with relational databases and data warehousesExperience integrating AI/ML capabilities into applications (e.g., working with model inference APIs, ML pipelines, or data-driven features)Ability to produce technical design documentation (system diagrams, architecture artifacts)Familiarity with MLOps concepts (model deployment, monitoring, versioning)Ability to design with future scalability and platform evolution in mind Demonstrated ownership and ability to drive work from concept to productionStrong problem-solving skills and ability to navigate ambiguityExcellent communication skills, including working directly with stakeholders or clientsNICE TO HAVEExperience with Google Cloud Platform (GCP) or similar cloud environmentsExperience designing and consuming RESTful APIsExperience with API gateways and API management platforms, such as Google ApigeeFamiliarity with API authentication and authorization (PKI, OAuth2, JWT, LDAP, SAML, etc.)Experience working on U.S. Federal Government programs, particularly DoW environmentsGoogle Cloud Professional-level certificationsBENEFITS & PERKSFlexible PTO + all Federal holidays offHealth, dental and vision insurance plansFlexible Spending Account (FSA)401k with employer matchCompany-sponsored life insurance, short- and long-term disability Professional development (training, certifications, conferences)Paid cloud developer accountsReferral bonusesHQ office perks (parking / metro reimbursement, nitro coffee & lunches) Annual social events (540 Week, hackathon, charity golf tournament, etc.)Access to 540's Washington Capitals & Nationals ticketsEQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY (EEO)540's policy is to provide equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.