Chief Architect & AI Engineer at NetCentrics Corporation – Herndon, Virginia

NetCentrics is seeking a Chief Architect & AI Engineer to lead mission-critical AI initiatives supporting federal government customers. This role combines strategic architecture leadership with hands-on engineering execution to accelerate AI transformation from concept through enterprise production deployment.

The ideal candidate brings deep technical expertise in AI/ML systems, a strong product-delivery mindset, and the executive presence required to operate effectively within complex government environments. This individual will serve as a trusted technical advisor, solution architect, and implementation leader across high-visibility programs.

If you thrive at the intersection of strategy, architecture, and delivery — and are energized by solving complex national mission challenges — we encourage you to apply.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic AI Leadership

• Partner with federal stakeholders to identify high-impact AI opportunities and define mission-aligned use cases.
• Shape AI strategy, roadmaps, and implementation plans aligned to program goals.
• Serve as the senior technical authority for AI architecture decisions.

Solution Architecture & Engineering

• Architect and integrate end-to-end AI/ML solutions including:
  • Large Language Models (LLMs)
  • Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) pipelines
  • Data architectures and vector databases
  • Workflow orchestration frameworks
• Design scalable, secure, AI-native systems ready for enterprise deployment.
• Lead hands-on prototyping and proof-of-concept development to validate technical feasibility and mission value.

Delivery & Execution

• Collaborate closely with engineering teams to build, test, and iterate solutions rapidly.
• Guide solutions from ideation through production deployment.
• Translate operational feedback into platform enhancements and architectural improvements.

Client & Executive Engagement

• Act as the primary technical liaison between government customers, internal teams, and external partners.
• Present architectural approaches and technical strategies to executive stakeholders.
• Communicate complex AI concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Compliance & Security

• Ensure all solutions align with federal security frameworks and compliance standards (e.g., FedRAMP, RMF).
• Design systems in accordance with ethical AI principles and data governance policies.
• Architect for secure cloud deployment within AWS, Azure, or GCP environments.

Required Qualifications

Experience

• 7+ years of experience in technical consulting, solution architecture, field engineering, or similar roles with a focus on AI/ML.
• Proven success leading AI/ML initiatives from concept through production.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex, high-visibility technical programs.

Technical Expertise

• Deep hands-on experience with:
  • LLM-based systems and Generative AI pipelines
  • Prompt engineering, RAG, and orchestration frameworks (e.g., LangChain, Semantic Kernel)
  • Custom software development
• Strong cloud architecture experience (AWS, Azure, or GCP).
• Expertise with:
  • Containers (Docker, Kubernetes)
  • Infrastructure-as-Code (Terraform or similar)
  • Enterprise integration patterns

Leadership & Communication

• Exceptional communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to translate complex technical concepts into mission and business impact.
• Strong analytical and architectural problem-solving skills.
• Customer-focused mindset with emphasis on measurable outcomes.

Clearance Requirements

• U.S. Citizenship required.
• Active Secret clearance (minimum) required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Proficiency in Python and SQL.
• Experience working within federal data governance and security environments.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, or related technical discipline.
• Experience supporting DoD, DHS, or Federal Civilian agencies.

Where You Belong

At the heart of our organization lies a set of five core values that guide every facet of our work. "Mission First" epitomizes our unwavering commitment to our goals. "People Always" underscores the significance we place on our team's well-being and development. We continually strive to "Be Eminent" by consistently pushing the boundaries of excellence. "Embrace the Team" reflects our unwavering belief in the power of collaboration, recognizing that together, we attain greatness. With every action, we "Act with a Purpose," ensuring that our efforts contribute meaningfully to a larger mission. These values serve as the bedrock of our company culture, propelling us forward as a united and purpose-driven team.

Why Join NetCentrics

Join us not just to be a part of safeguarding our nation, but to be at the forefront of innovation, where your ideas and expertise play a pivotal role in shaping the future of cybersecurity and IT. Together, we're not just protecting systems; we're pioneering them. Come be a part of our team and redefine the possibilities in our industry!

Commitment to Diversity

This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status or on the basis of disability.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled