AI/ML Research Scientist

About Peraton
Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees solve the most daunting challenges that our customers face. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure.
About The Role
Peraton Labs is seeking a self-motivated AI/ML Research Scientist with a strong foundation in machine learning, optimization techniques and data analytics to help design and deliver next-generation ML-driven modeling, simulation and analysis (MSA) capabilities. The role focuses on research, prototyping and evaluation of AI/ML-driven analytics to expedite MSA including development of surrogate models to reduce simulation run times. The role requires a deep understanding of machine learning techniques and optimization algorithms and working with simulators.
You will work with a small team of research scientists to investigate challenging problems, develop optimization and AI/ML-based solutions, software prototypes and demonstrate performance through hands-on evaluations. The ideal candidate thrives in an environment where they can independently drive technical work while communicating results clearly through presentations and written technical documents.
Key responsibilities:
Conduct applied research on AI/ML-driven analytics using cutting edge machine learning and optimization techniques to expedite high-fidelity modeling and simulations
Design and implement prototypes that operationalize research into usable capabilities
Work with teammates to translate customer needs into technical approaches, balancing novelty with feasibility and deployability
Produce high-quality technical documentation, briefings and presentations, and contribute to reports, proposals, whitepapers, and publications
Maintain strong system hygiene: Linux-based development, version control, containers, reproducibility, and clean software practices
Learn and integrate new tools/technologies quickly to keep pace with evolving customer needs and emerging research
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Qualifications
Required Qualifications
Minimum of MS with 6+ years of experience or PhD with 3+ years of experience in Computer Science, Electrical and Computer Engineering, or closely related field
Expertise in machine learning and optimization techniques
Hands-on experience with ML tooling such a PyTorch, TensorFlow
Knowledge of LLMs and agentic AI is a plus
Experience with modeling, simulation and analysis
Experience with developing surrogate models is a plus
Strong software development skills in Python, C/C++
Proficiency with Linux, Git, Docker and Kubernetes
Excellent oral and written communication skills (technical presentations + well-structured documentation)
Ability to work independently, manage ambiguity, and deliver tangible outputs in a research environment
US Citizenship is a requirement for this position
Willingness and eligibility to obtain a Secret clearance
Candidate will be required to travel to Basking Ridge, NJ as needed - expected at 25%.
Preferred Qualifications
History of peer-reviewed publications, patents, open-source contributions, or evidence of research impact in the relevant areas
Current security clearance is a plus
Details
Target Salary Range: $135,000 - $216,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.
Benefits Statement: Peraton offers eligible employees a variety of benefits including medical, dental, vision, life, health savings account, short/long term disability, EAP, parental leave, 401(k), paid time off (PTO) for vacation, and company paid holidays. A full listing of available benefits can be viewed at https://www.careers.peraton.com/benefits.
Application Statements: The application period for the job is estimated to be 30 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. By applying to this job, you are expressing interest in the role and the Company. During the review of your application, you may be required to participate in an on-camera interview, as well as participate in a process to verify your identity. Use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools of any kind during Peraton interviews is strictly prohibited unless the candidate has obtained prior written authorization. All interview responses must be the candidate's own.
EEO:Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.

Work arrangement
Yes