Machine Learning Engineer

AeroVironment supports applied autonomy through the Learning and Active Perception (LEAP) group, where machine learning is used to improve how systems perceive and recognize targets from image and video. This onsite role in Centreville, VA pairs deep learning development with validation, experimentation, and field support that can involve extended travel.

What you’ll work on

The Machine Learning Engineer will help build computer vision capabilities for defense and commercial applications, focusing on object detection, classification, localization, and tracking. Work spans the full loop from requirements gathering through validation and verification testing, including on-site experimentation and support for fielded systems.

Responsibilities

• Develop computer vision and machine learning algorithms for real-time automated target recognition (ATR) using stationary and mobile sensor platforms
• Perform visual imagery data science to guide data collection, labeling, and selection for training deep computer vision models
• Train deep learning algorithms on selected data and validate data selection and design via purpose-built experiments
• Analyze ML approaches for a given problem and rank algorithms based on success probability on new data
• Define objectives, build models to meet them, and establish metrics to track progress
• Select appropriate datasets and data representations
• Diagnose errors across data, models, and design strategy and apply improvements
• Write and test software to integrate machine learning into aircraft components (such as autopilots, payloads, or other functional components) or other systems
• Other duties as assigned

Required qualifications

• U.S. Citizenship required
• BS in Computer Science/Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or a related Science or Engineering discipline, plus 2+ years relevant experience in machine learning and/or computer vision
• 2 to 5 years of relevant computer vision experience
• Familiarity with Python and C/C++
• Proficiency with a deep learning framework, preferably PyTorch
• Experience with machine learning libraries such as Open-CV, scikit-learn, and pandas
• Familiarity with Linux
• Familiarity with Nvidia Tools (CUDA, JetPack, TensorRT) and the deployment process to Nvidia GPUs
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex systems and perform algorithmic optimization
• Ability to perform exploratory data analysis, including visualizing and manipulating large datasets
• Active Secret level (or higher) DoD security clearance
• Ability to travel CONUS and OCONUS (Occasionally, up to 25%)
• Location: Centreville, VA or Minneapolis, MN

Technologies

• Python
• C/C++
• PyTorch
• Open-CV
• scikit-learn
• pandas
• Linux
• Nvidia Tools (CUDA, JetPack, TensorRT)
• Nvidia GPUs

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401K with company matching
• 9/80 work schedule
• Paid holiday shutdown

Compensation

USD 102,000 - 155,500 per year

ITAR / EAR notice

This position requires access to information subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under ITAR and EAR, or be approved for an export license by the governing agency. Some job offers may be conditional upon AeroVironment’s determination that it can obtain an export license within required business timelines. Some positions require current U.S. citizenship due to contract requirements.