Senior SAR Imagery Scientist (AI/ML Validation) | TS/SCI
Springfield, VA - Full Time
Senior SAR Imagery Scientist (AI/ML Validation) | TS/SCI
Location: Springfield VA
Overview Join a mission-focused effort supporting AI assurance and accreditation within GEOINT. Supporting NGA’s Assurance and Governance (QA) office and the Accreditation of AI Models (AGAIM) program, this role is centered on evaluating and validating AI and machine learning models against operational Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) imagery to ensure mission-ready performance and analytic reliability.
As a Senior SAR Imagery Scientist, you will apply advanced expertise in SAR collection, phenomenology, image formation, and exploitation techniques to support AI/ML model evaluation efforts across a variety of operational scenarios. You will help assess model accuracy, data quality, and sensor limitations while contributing to structured testing methodologies that align with GEOINT standards and mission requirements. In this role, you will conduct detailed imagery analysis, support the refinement of analytic workflows, and contribute to the development of processes that improve algorithm performance and operational usability. Your work will play a direct role in validating analytic outputs, maintaining quality standards, and supporting the advancement of automated GEOINT capabilities. You will also collaborate closely with Government stakeholders and cross-functional teams to deliver integrated, high-confidence assessments while providing technical guidance and mentorship to junior personnel supporting the mission.
If you are a SAR professional looking to apply your expertise to cutting-edge AI/ML validation efforts supporting real-world intelligence operations, this role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact.
Requirements
Active TS/SCI clearance with willingness to undergo a CI Polygraph exam
10+ years of relevant experience in lieu of a degree
or a Master’s degree with 5+ years of relevant experience
or a Bachelor’s degree with 7+ years of relevant experience
or an Associate’s degree with 8+ years of relevant experience
4+ years of experience supporting SAR exploitation activities with strong understanding of collection, phenomenology, image formation processes, exploitation methods, and analytic workflows
Ability to support evaluation, validation, and quality control activities for SAR analytic outputs and operational datasets
Application of SAR imagery to identify the occurrence and location of objects of interest (OOI)
Proficiency with analytic and scripting tools such as Python, MATLAB, or similar environments
Strong understanding of remote sensing principles, GEOINT tradecraft, and advanced imagery exploitation methodologies
Experience performing spatial analysis and working with geospatial datasets within operational or analytic environments
Ability to communicate SAR capabilities, analytic findings, and technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences
Experience working with GEOINT tools, databases, and reporting systems
Ability to mentor junior analysts and contribute within collaborative, team-based analytic environments
Capacity to work independently while maintaining high-quality analytic standards and mission accountability
Desired
Familiarity with computer vision (CV) and machine learning techniques as applied to SAR imagery
Apply now or send your resume directly to Antoine Thomas: [email protected]
Why XTS? XTS is a veteran owned company focused on mission success and professional growth. We foster a collaborative environment and invest in our people so they can thrive while supporting critical national security missions.
Benefits Include:
Flexible healthcare, dental, and vision plans
Paid time off (PTO) and 11 federal holidays
Matching 401(k) plan
Short- and long-term disability, life insurance, cancer insurance, and pet insurance
Ongoing professional development and advancement opportunities