Innovation Engineer/DIRT Lab Manager role supporting rapid Army AI/ML prototyping and lab operations at Fort Huachuca, AZ.

Coach Soldiers and partners through rapid prototyping, design thinking, innovation, and research project execution using makerspace equipment and technologies
Direct the technical execution of prototypes built on Army data platforms, AI/ML tools, and enterprise applications (including Vantage, Maven, and related DevSecOps and cloud environments)
Support users in improving problem-solving, workflows, and outputs within the provided toolchain
Ensure lab systems, networks, and development environments are configured correctly and meet security and compliance requirements aligned to Army cybersecurity standards
Mentor and lead a multidisciplinary team across engineering, development, research, and UX to encourage experimentation, rapid development, and innovation
Produce technical reports, demos, and briefings for senior Army and ARL personnel
Manage lab resources, schedules, and coordination with the broader Pathfinder team, especially other DIRT Lab personnel
Drive collaboration across Army innovation ecosystems, including PAEs, CPEs, labs, and operational units

Accredited degree in engineering, computer science, data science, or a related technical field
5+ years of experience in technical research and development (R&D), innovation labs, software development, or systems engineering
Experience in AI/ML development, data engineering, or advanced analytics
Demonstrated proficiency with Python, TypeScript, and React (or comparable systems)
Ability to lead multidisciplinary technical teams and manage multiple project lines
Strong communication skills for interacting with military stakeholders and senior leaders
Familiarity with Army cybersecurity requirements, STIGs (Security Technical Implementation Guides), RMF (Risk Management Framework) processes, and secure development methodologies
Entrepreneurial mindset: comfort taking educated risks, interest in piloting new ideas, and commitment to research best practices and continuous improvement
Passion and understanding for the Intelligence Community (IC) mission and vision
Ability to operate effectively in a highly matrixed organization
Active Top Secret (TS)/SCI clearance, or eligibility to obtain and maintain one
US Citizenship required

Hands-on experience with Army enterprise data and application ecosystems (e.g., Vantage, Maven, Army cloud environments, DevSecOps pipelines)
Experience working within or alongside ARL, Program Executive Offices (PEOs), Cross-Functional Teams (CFTs), or operational units
Experience deploying or integrating solutions in classified or hybrid-cloud environments
Knowledge of agile development and rapid prototyping practices

Supports the DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory Catalyst Pathfinder program.

Innovation Engineer/DIRT Lab Manager (AI/ML Data Engineer)

Job Description