Principal AI Data Engineer

About Aquia Inc.

Named the “#1 Best Remote Startup to Work For in 2025” by Built In, Aquia is a digital services firm specializing in cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity, and compliance automation for the U.S. government.  

Founded by Veterans, we are passionate about making our country digitally capable and secure. Since 2021, we’ve generated millions in cost savings through cloud services and licensing optimization, enabled civil servants to double health care fraud investigations through streamlined cloud-based systems, and reduced authorization timelines by 74% through modernized security processes. Last year, we were named the 2024 Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business (SDVOSB) of the Year by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

Candidates must be U.S. Citizens eligible for a Public Trust Clearance.

Principal AI Data Engineer

Role Summary
The AI/ML Solution Architect is responsible for designing and guiding the technical implementation of AI solutions that address VA’s mission-critical healthcare challenges. This role ensures that solutions are technically feasible, aligned with enterprise architecture, and capable of moving from MVP through pilot phases. As a senior technical leader, the Solution Architect advises on system and data requirements, evaluates alternatives, and oversees the configuration of solutions to ensure they are secure, scalable, and user-centered.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and oversee AI/ML solution architectures for pilots and MVPs.
• Define system and data requirements to support prioritized use cases.
• Evaluate alternatives and select technical approaches that align with VA enterprise frameworks.
• Guide configuration of solutions using low-code/no-code methods where appropriate.
• Ensure solutions comply with VA’s enterprise standards (TRM, FICAM, TIC 3.0, IPv6, PAL).
• Collaborate with analysts, DevOps, and UX teams to integrate solutions into existing workflows.
• Provide technical advisement during testing and evaluation of product effectiveness.

Qualifications

• Strong background in solution architecture for AI/ML systems.
• Experience with system integration, data pipelines, and enterprise-scale deployments.
• Familiarity with VA frameworks and federal IT security standards.
• Ability to evaluate trade-offs between performance, cost, and compliance.
• Excellent communication skills for guiding technical teams and presenting to leadership.

Benefits

• Premium health care plans (90% employer-paid)
• Employee stock plan
• 100% 401k match (up to IRS annual max)
• Generous PTO package
• Personal training and development budget

 

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Aquia Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any federal, state, or local protected class.