AI Researcher

Our client, an early-stage, AI-driven startup in the defense industry, is hiring an AI Researcher to join their team in California. The successful candidate will combine advanced machine learning research with robotics and defense applications, transforming foundational research into scalable, robust models that operate effectively in unstructured, high-stakes environments – from concept through to deployment.

Responsibilities

• Conduct original research in embodied AI, including reinforcement learning, imitation learning, memory, reward design, vision-language modeling and world modeling.

• Build, test and benchmark large-scale models for perception, decision-making and control in both simulated and physical environments.

• Investigate transfer learning and continual learning across diverse robotic domains.

• Collaborate with engineering, robotics and field teams to integrate research into operational systems.

• Lead research strategy and define the roadmap across key areas of autonomy and machine learning.

• Support field tests and data collection campaigns to evaluate system performance in realistic environments.

Skillset

• PhD in Computer Science, Robotics, Machine Learning or similar.

• Proven publication record in top-tier conferences or journals.

• Deep expertise in reinforcement learning, imitation learning, vision-language models, sim-to-real transfer, world modeling or agentic AI.

• Hands-on experience building and evaluating models for embodied agents or autonomous systems.

• Proficiency in Python and machine learning frameworks such as PyTorch, TensorFlow or JAX.

• Experience working with large-scale datasets and high-dimensional sensor inputs.

• Demonstrated ability to take research ideas from concept to deployed prototype.

• Background in DoD, aerospace, or other mission-critical operational deployments is a plus.

• Legal authorization to work in the U.S.; some duties may require access to U.S. export-controlled information.

Benefits

• Salary: $160K – $220K DOE. Exceptional candidates may be considered for higher compensation.

• Performance Bonus.

• Equity.

• Medical, dental and vision insurance.

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