Scientist (Computer Vision)

About the role

At Areté, we develop innovative solutions to tackle the nation’s most complex security challenges. As an employee‑owned company we foster an inclusive, collaborative environment that values diverse career opportunities and professional growth. This Computer Vision Scientist position is based at our Falls Church, VA office and is a full‑time, exempt, non‑supervisory role.

Responsibilities

• Develop algorithms, datasets, and workflows for image processing, object detection and classification, 3D reconstruction, and scene understanding.
• Adapt existing libraries or implement new algorithms to process and visualize imagery data.
• Evaluate algorithm performance, develop metrics and test data to quantify strengths and weaknesses.
• Identify root causes of algorithm errors and propose/implement fixes or improvements.
• Work with current Python codebases, implementing features or modifications needed for algorithm improvement.
• Prototype emerging computer vision algorithms leveraging supporting capabilities and assess performance on customer applications.
• Prioritize multiple tasks, contribute to completion of technical milestones, and prepare presentation‑worthy graphics and technical briefings with an emphasis on high‑quality visualization and technical writing.

Requirements

• Active Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility.
• BS, MS, or Ph.D. in Physics, Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related technical field.
• Proficient in Python and common numerical and image processing packages.
• Familiarity with modern Computer Vision algorithms and frameworks.
• Understanding of related machine learning concepts and applications.
• Research experience related to image processing, computer vision, or other types of sensor data.
• Ability to learn and apply programming tools and software packages as needed.
• Intellectual curiosity and desire for continuous learning.
• Skilled and innovative problem solver.
• Comfortable adapting to a wide variety of roles to support different types of technical projects.
• Comfortable interfacing with a variety of co‑workers and customers.
• Confident approaching senior scientists for guidance and implementing their technical recommendations.
• Proficient in the use of standard Office software.

Skills (Preferred)

• Vision Language Models and/or Vision Foundation Models.
• 3D modeling and visualization.
• MLOps.
• Additional computing languages, software engineering practices and tools (C/C++, Test Driven Development, CI/CD).
• Detection, tracking and estimation algorithms.
• GUI development.
• Satellite or airborne image processing.
• Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) Processing.
• Cloud computing / DevOps and networking tools (AWS, Docker, Kubernetes).
• GPU acceleration of image processing algorithms (CUDA).
• Parallelization, multiprocessing, and network‑enabled microservices.
• Proposal development and/or project management experience.

Benefits

• Health & Wellness: Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance.
• Life and Long‑Term Disability (LTD) Insurance.
• Vision Reimbursement.
• Fitness Reimbursement.
• Financial: Company‑funded 5% contribution to your 401(k) retirement plan.
• Financial: Company‑funded 5% contribution to your Employee Stock Ownership Plan.
• Continuing Education Assistance.
• Work‑Life Balance: Flexible Scheduling.
• Paid Time Off (PTO).
• Paid Parental and Bereavement Leave.

Pay

The salary range for this role depends on the candidate’s level of experience:

• Scientist 2: $110,000 – $145,000 (minimum experience of BS+2 years, OR MS+0 years).
• Staff Scientist: $130,000 – $165,000 (minimum experience of BS+5 years, MS+3 years, or PhD+0 years).

Areté considers several factors when extending an offer, including the position’s responsibilities, work experience, education/training, and key skills.

Schedule

This is a full‑time, exempt, non‑supervisory position located at the Falls Church, VA office.