AI Systems Engineer

AI Systems EngineerApplied Research Solutions (ARS) is seeking a skilled AI Systems Engineer to support, operate, and enhance the platforms that deliver AI capabilities across cloud and on prem environments. This role is focused on operational support, administration, and secure platform management—not AI research or model development.The ideal AI Systems Engineer candidate will have experience managing M365 Copilot, Azure OpenAI, and on-premise AI systems, with a strong understanding of how AI tools integrate with enterprise environments, how data flows through AI systems, and how to apply security and governance controls in a CMMC Level 2 setting. This role will also manage cost controls and model selection considerations to ensure efficient and predictable AI usage. The position offers opportunities to expand expertise across AI operations, hybrid cloud, Kubernetes, identity governance, and FinOps for AI while supporting mission-critical programs.Why Work with us?Applied Research Solutions (ARS) is respected as a world-class provider of technically integrated solutions as we deliver premier talent and technology across our focused markets for unparalleled, continuous mission support. Awarded a Best Places to Work nominee since 2020, ARS recognizes that without our career-driven, loyal professionals, we would not be able to deliver state-of-the-art results for our mission partners. We firmly believe that prioritizing our employees is of the upmost importance. We provide a culture where our employees are challenged to meet their career goals and aspirations, while still obtaining a work/life balance. ARS employees are motivated through our industry competitive benefits package, our awards and recognition program, and personalized attention from ARS Senior Managers.Responsibilities include:Administer and support AI platform workloads across M365 Copilot, Azure OpenAI, and on-prem AI inference systemsOperate AI-related Azure services including identity (Entra ID), networking, private endpoints, resource policies, and secure service integrationsDocument, monitor, and secure end-to-end AI data flows, applying required controls to meet CMMC Level 2 complianceAssist with implementation of AI-related security controls including identity governance, Conditional Access, RBAC, data classification, DLP, and auditingImplement usage monitoring, token tracking, quotas, and dashboards to control and optimize AI costProvide operational support to developers using internal AI services, including templates, reference architectures, and troubleshootingSupport hybrid cloud and on-prem deployment of AI components, including containerized inference systems and Kubernetes workloadsMaintain documentation, SOPs, diagrams, and compliance artifacts related to AI platform operationsContinuously learn and adopt new AI platform tools, Azure features, and best practices related to secure and cost-efficient AI operationsOther duties as assignedQualifications/ Technical Experience Requirements:Must be a US citizenAbility to obtain a Secret security clearance (active clearance is beneficial but not required)Bachelor's degree in a technical and related field.5+ years of cloud, systems, platform, or operational engineering experienceDemonstrated hands-on experience with M365 administration, Azure services, or Azure OpenAI platformsFamiliarity with container platforms and KubernetesUnderstanding of AI data flows, how AI systems integrate with enterprise platforms, and how to apply security controls to those data flowsKnowledge of CMMC Level 2 or NIST SP 800-171 security practicesKnowledge of AI cost optimization strategies including quotas, token usage monitoring, model selection, and workload controlCurrent Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104), or ability to obtain within six months of hireSecurity+ or other DoD 8140 IAM Level II certification requiredStrong organizational, communication, and multitasking skillsAbility to thrive as part of a small, fast-moving operational teamStrong critical thinking, troubleshooting, and innovation skillsAll positions at Applied Research Solutions are subject to background investigations. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation including criminal history and identity check.This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-741.5(a). This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of disability, and requires affirmative action by covered prime contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities.This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified protected veterans, and requires affirmative action by covered contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified protected veteransEqual Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.