R&D Software Engineer

Responsibilities

• Design, prototype, test, and refine AI/data-driven software capabilities for mission-focused use cases
• Build software for AI/ML experimentation, RAG or agentic workflows, model integration, simulation, and data pipelines
• Develop and improve data workflows, schema transformations, APIs, and backend services
• Support AI/ML workflows including inference, evaluation, deployment, and monitoring
• Validate outputs through testing, data quality checks, and failure analysis
• Troubleshoot complex issues across software, data, model, and integration layers
• Convert stakeholder or mission feedback into actionable technical steps

Requirements

• Strong software engineering background with hands-on experience building and testing modern systems
• Proficiency in Python, Go, C++, Java, or SQL
• Hands-on depth in at least one area: AI/ML systems, RAG, agentic development, LangChain, data pipelines, MLOps, or simulation
• Familiarity with real-world data workflows, APIs, and schemas
• U.S. citizenship required
• Ability to travel approximately 15% for R&D events and technical demos

Preferred Qualifications

• DoD, Air Force, or defense technology experience
• Experience with MLOps tools like MLflow, SageMaker, or Kubeflow
• Experience with data pipeline tools like dbt, Airflow, or Dagster
• Knowledge of Cloud, Docker, Kubernetes, Terraform, or CI/CD
• Active Secret clearance preferred

Benefits

• Company-supported certifications
• 401(k) with 100% match up to 6%
• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverage
• Generous PTO and paid holidays
• Home-office equipment plan and remote work support
• Fitness and wellness reimbursement

About the Company

Rackner is a software consultancy focused on building mission-critical systems for the U.S. government, working across cloud platforms, DevSecOps, AI/ML, and distributed systems.