AI Development Lead

Job overview

The AI Development Lead role is onsite in McLean, VA, and compensation is not specified. The role supports TheIncLab’s RAPID AI Research team, which develops intelligent digital applications and platforms for mission-critical teams. This position leads the translation of AI research into scalable, reliable software, guiding systems from early prototypes through production. It sets technical direction, oversees the AI lifecycle, establishes engineering practices, and mentors team members to advance customer outcomes.

What you'll do

• Lead architecture, design, and delivery of AI/ML systems, including LLMs, RAG workflows, agents, and foundation models. Oversee data preparation, training and optimization, evaluation, deployment, monitoring, and iteration. Partner with product, engineering, and business stakeholders
• champion CI/CD and MLOps practices
• mentor engineers and scientists
• and apply research insights to product enhancements.

What we're looking for

Skills & competencies

ai development lead

artificial intelligence

machine learning

generative ai

llms

rag

mlops

technical leadership

research and development

theinclab

mclean va

Work arrangement

• Weekend coverage required

Benefits & perks

• Hybrid and flexible work schedules
• professional development
• training and certification reimbursement
• paid time off and paid volunteer time
• medical, dental, and vision options
• wellness and mental health resources
• supplemental life insurance
• 401(k) with employer matching
• eligible incentive bonuses.

Why this role

The role spans AI research through production delivery and includes technical leadership, mentorship, and work on mission-critical applications.

About the employer

TheIncLab is hiring for this role. Industry: Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology). Sector: 54.