Senior Computer Scientist/Engineer (AI w/ TAK)

In a world of possibilities, pursue one with endless opportunities. Imagine Next!At Parsons, you can imagine a career where you thrive, work with exceptional people, and be yourself. Guided by our leadership vision of valuing people, embracing agility, and fostering growth, we cultivate an innovative culture that empowers you to achieve your full potential. Unleash your talent and redefine what’s possible.Job Description:Parsons is seeking a Computer Scientist/Engineer, Senior to support our cutting-edge Drone Armor counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS) program. This critical role provides professional software and application development and requires the application of advanced computer science, engineering, and mathematical principles to research, design, develop, test, evaluate, and maintain complex software applications in an integrated manner. The Senior Computer Scientist/Engineer may also lead a team of computer scientists on large and complex projects within the Drone Armor program.What You'll Be DoingSoftware & Application DevelopmentProvide professional software and application development in various programming languages in support of Drone Armor C-UAS capabilitiesDesign, implement, and maintain complex software components and services that enable mission-critical functionsApply fundamentals and principles of:Artificial intelligence and information systemsNetworking, distributed processing, and real-time controlsSystem-of-systems engineering, web, cloud, modeling, and simulationDevelop software and services that interface with and extend Tactical Assault Kit (TAK) ecosystems (e.g., ATAK, WinTAK, server-side TAK components), including plugins, data feeds, and mission toolsEnsure software is robust, secure, maintainable, and aligned with program performance and reliability requirementsConduct code reviews and enforce coding standards, security practices, and configuration management processesSystems Architecture, Integration & Technical LeadershipApply expert knowledge of computer hardware, systems software, computer system architecture, and system integration to support end-to-end C-UAS solutionsArchitect and integrate software components within complex system-of-systems environmentsArchitect and integrate AI/ML pipelines and TAK-based components into existing C-UAS architectures, ensuring interoperability with external systems, sensors, and command-and-control (C2) platformsCollaborate with systems engineers, RF engineers, data scientists, and other stakeholders to ensure software solutions align with system requirements and mission objectivesLead or mentor junior and mid-level computer scientists/engineers, providing technical guidance and oversightMay lead a team of computer scientists on large and complex projects, including planning, tasking, and technical quality controlMathematical Foundations & Algorithm DevelopmentApply advanced mathematics including data structures, algorithms, discrete models, and modern algebra to software and algorithm designDevelop, analyze, and optimize algorithms for detection, tracking, decision-support, and other mission-critical capabilitiesEvaluate algorithm performance, complexity, and suitability for real-time, distributed, or resource-constrained environmentsSupport modeling and simulation activities to analyze system behavior and assess performance trade-offsResearch, Test, Evaluation & Lifecycle SupportLead or significantly contribute to research, design, development, testing, evaluation, and maintenance of software applications in an integrated, lifecycle-focused mannerDefine and execute unit, integration, and system-level test strategies for software components and servicesDefine and execute test and evaluation strategies for AI/ML components and TAK-integrated capabilities, including performance, robustness, and human-in-the-loop evaluation in operationally relevant scenariosAnalyze test results, diagnose complex issues, and drive corrective actions and performance improvementsPrepare and maintain technical documentation including architecture/design descriptions, test reports, and user documentationMaintain awareness of evolving technologies, tools, and methods relevant to C-UAS and advanced software systemsWhat Required Skills You'll BringEducationMaster’s degree in computer science, electronics engineering, or other engineering or technical discipline is required with 6 years of experienceOR10 years of relevant software/computer science experience may be substituted for educationExperienceMinimum 6 years of experience in professional software or application development using modern programming languagesExperience applying:Fundamentals and principles of artificial intelligence, information systems, networking, distributed processing, real-time controls, system-of-systems, web, cloud, modeling, simulation, or some combination thereofComputer hardware, systems software, computer system architecture, and system integrationMathematics including data structures, algorithms, discrete models, and modern algebraExperience supporting the research, design, development, testing, evaluation, and maintenance of software applications in an integrated mannerExperience leading teams or providing technical leadership on large and complex software projectsExperience designing, implementing, or integrating AI/ML-based capabilities into operational systems, with emphasis on real-time or near-real-time decision-support, detection, or trackingExperience developing, integrating, or supporting TAK-based solutions (e.g., ATAK/WinTAK plugins, TAK servers, data services) in tactical or mission systemsTechnical CompetenciesProficiency in one or more modern programming languages such as Python, C++, Java, or similarStrong understanding of software engineering best practices, including design patterns, version control, and CI/CD pipelinesExperience with distributed systems, networking, and real-time or near-real-time processingFamiliarity with cloud architectures and services for scalable, resilient application deploymentExperience integrating software within complex systems or system-of-systems environmentsSecurity & CitizenshipMust be a US CitizenTOP SECRET security clearanceWhat Desired Skills You'll BringAdvanced Education & CertificationsPhD in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related disciplineProfessional certifications in cloud computing, software architecture, AI/ML, or cybersecuritySpecialized ExperienceExperience with DoD programs, C-UAS, electronic warfare, ISR, or other defense-related systemsExperience with AI/ML frameworks and tools applied to detection, classification, or decision-support problemsExperience designing or deploying TAK-based capabilities in operational environments, including mission planning, situational awareness, or C2 workflowsExperience with modeling and simulation tools for system-of-systems or mission analysisAdvanced Technical SkillsExperience with containerization (Docker, Kubernetes) and modern DevSecOps practicesExperience with microservices architectures, message-based or event-driven systemsFamiliarity with real-time data processing, edge computing, or high-performance computing environmentsTools & Analytical CapabilitiesProficiency with collaborative development tools (Git, issue tracking, CI/CD platforms)Experience with performance profiling, debugging, and optimization toolsStrong analytical, problem-solving, and technical communication skillsSecurity Clearance Requirement:An active Top Secret security clearance is required for this position.​This position is part of our Federal Solutions team.The Federal Solutions segment delivers resources to our US government customers that ensure the success of missions around the globe. Our intelligent employees drive the state of the art as they provide services and solutions in the areas of defense, security, intelligence, infrastructure, and environmental. We promote a culture of excellence and close-knit teams that take pride in delivering, protecting, and sustaining our nation's most critical assets, from Earth to cyberspace. Throughout the company, our people are anticipating what’s next to deliver the solutions our customers need now.Salary Range: $125,100.00 - $225,200.00We value our employees and want our employees to take care of their overall wellbeing, which is why we offer best-in-class benefits such as medical, dental, vision, paid time off, Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), 401(k), life insurance, flexible work schedules, and holidays to fit your busy lifestyle!Parsons is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other protected status.We truly invest and care about our employee’s wellbeing and provide endless growth opportunities as the sky is the limit, so aim for the stars! Imagine next and join the Parsons quest—APPLY TODAY!Parsons is aware of fraudulent recruitment practices. To learn more about recruitment fraud and how to report it, please refer to .SummaryLocation: US - MD, AberdeenType: Full time