Senior AI Technical Lead - DoD / Air Force Focus

Overview At Credence, we support our clients’ mission-critical needs, powered by technology. We provide cutting-edge solutions, including AI / ML, enterprise modernization, and advanced intelligence capabilities, to the largest defense and health federal organizations. Through partnership and trust, we increase mission success for warfighters and secure our nation for a better future. We are privately held, are repeatedly recognized as a top place to work, and have been on the Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Private Companies list for the last 12 years. We practice servant leadership and believe that by focusing on the success of our clients, team members, and partners, we all achieve greater success. Position Summary Credence has an immediate need for a Senior AI Technical Lead to support our AI and Automation practice, delivering advanced AI / ML solutions for the Department of Defense (DoD) and U.S. Air Force programs. This role is pivotal in designing, developing, and deploying mission-critical AI capabilities that enhance operational effectiveness, resilience, and security for warfighters and federal stakeholders. You will lead cross-functional teams, shape technical strategy, and mentor engineers in a dynamic, mission-driven environment supporting Air Force and DoD modernization initiatives. Key Responsibilities Lead the design, development, and deployment of scalable AI / ML models and systems tailored to DoD and Air Force operational requirements. Translate complex mission needs into technical solutions supporting Air Force core functions, including autonomy, human-machine teaming, and decision support. Oversee the full AI / ML lifecycle : architecture, experimentation, rapid prototyping, and performance optimization, ensuring alignment with DoD acquisition and risk management frameworks. Collaborate with DevOps, Data Engineering, and Cybersecurity teams to integrate AI into secure, production-grade environments, leveraging Air Force technology stacks (e.g., Cloud One, DISA, DevSecOps CI / CD). Ensure all solutions meet DoD and Air Force security, compliance, and cloud architecture standards (RMF, FedRAMP, Zero Trust, CDAO guidance). Provide technical mentorship, conduct code / design reviews, and foster a culture of responsible AI and ethical innovation. Research and evaluate emerging AI / ML tools, technologies, and frameworks to drive innovation and maintain competitive advantage for the Air Force. Support implementation of Air Force and DoD AI initiatives, including AI Accelerator, Phantom Fellowship, and digital modernization programs. Requirements Master’s degree in AI, Machine Learning, Computer Science, or related field (or equivalent experience). 5+ years of hands-on experience in AI / ML solution development, preferably supporting DoD, Air Force, or federal programs. Demonstrated experience leading technical teams and architecting solutions in Agile / SAFe environments. Strong understanding of agentic AI (Transformers, Model Context Protocol, Agent2Agent Protocol, LangGraph, etc.). Proficiency in Python and Typescript for advanced application development and scripting. Experience deploying AI solutions in AWS, Azure, GCP, and DoD-approved cloud environments (Cloud One, DISA). Familiarity with CI / CD, containerization (Docker, Kubernetes), DevSecOps, and Air Force IT processes. Knowledge of DoD / Air Force cybersecurity mandates, RMF, FedRAMP, and Zero Trust Architecture. Experience with Agile methodologies and tools (Git, Jira). Must be a U.S. Citizen and eligible to obtain a DoD Secret clearance. Preferred Qualifications Experience with Air Force or DoD digital modernization projects, including migration of complex systems to secure cloud environments. Strong understanding of data engineering, data modeling, and data visualization (Power BI, Tableau). Familiarity with Lean Six Sigma, ITIL, and service-oriented architecture (SOA) frameworks. Prior experience supporting early defense contract awards and working with Air Force stakeholders (AFLCMC, AFRL, C5ISR, etc.). Locations : Hybrid : McLean, VA; Hanscom AFB – Bedford, MA; Rome, New York & Robins Air Force Base Benefits Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision) Retirement Plan (401k, IRA) Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D) Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays) Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity) Short Term & Long Term Disability Training & Development Free Food & Snacks Wellness Resources