Senior AI Technical Lead - DoD/Air Force Focus

Company: Credence
Location: Rome
Posted on: January 18, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Overview Join a team where innovation meets mission. Our AI, cloud, cyber, and modernization solutions save agencies thousands of hours, safeguard national security, and strengthen health and humanitarian missions worldwide. With 1,700 team members, 1,500 AI/data experts, and 100 prime contracts, we deliver at scale and with purpose. We’ve been recognized as a Top Workplace by the Washington Post for six straight years and named to the Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Private Companies 13 of the past 14 years. Credence is a welcoming home for those looking to grow and contribute to positive change. We encourage all employees to expand beyond their boundaries, dive into important world-changing Federal challenges. 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 Base salary: $160,000–$210,000. Final compensation is flexible and will be determined based on the candidate’s experience, technical depth, and clearance level. 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

Keywords: Credence, Albany , Senior AI Technical Lead - DoD/Air Force Focus, IT / Software / Systems , Rome, New York