Who We Are
SEI conducts applied research and development in software engineering, cybersecurity, and AI in support of government sponsors. The SEI works closely with defense and government organizations, industry, and academia to continually improve and secure software-intensive systems. Our core purposes are to help organizations improve software engineering capabilities, advance cybersecurity methods and technologies, and bring the discipline of software engineering to AI systems.
What We Do
Once a Computer Emergency Response Team that formed in 1988 in response to the Morris Worm, today the SEI CERT Division leads as a Cybersecurity Engineering and Resilience Team conducting collaborative and innovative evidence-based research to fortify the cyber ecosystem and protect national security and prosperity. The Threat Analysis Directorate builds on CERT’s nearly 40 years of applied research aimed at solving the Nation’s most difficult cybersecurity challenges. Our mission is to advance the state-of-the-art and practice for analyzing, assuring, and countering software systems to enhance National Security. Our team of ~40 professionals work in a highly collaborative environment with specialties including AI security, advanced malware analysis and reverse engineering, and vulnerability analysis. We conduct the applied research necessary to develop and accelerate cyber tradecraft advantages against threats to National Security.
What You’ll Do:
Apply state-of-the-art approaches to understanding systemic vulnerabilities in software systems and how attackers adapt their tradecraft to exploit those vulnerabilities
- Evaluate the effectiveness of tools, techniques, and processes developed by industry and the security research community
- Develop models, tools, and data sets that can be used to characterize the threats to—and vulnerabilities in—software systems, and publish those results
- Develop machine learning-based prototypes, products, and tools to solve and automate solutions to AI-related security problems
- Translate research concepts into practical, operational capabilities, with the ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
Who You Are
- Mission-Driven Curiosity: You are deeply interested in cybersecurity, AI, and automation, and you want your work to have impacts beyond your organization. You pick up new technologies and domains quickly and adapt as the threat landscape changes.
- AI and Vulnerability Research Expertise: You have hands-on experience in AI-based research, vulnerability research and analysis, and statistical modeling. You understand rigorous research methods in computer science, engineering, security, AI, and related fields, as well as of internet fundamentals including network protocols, provider operations, and governance.
- Applied AI/ML Engineering: You have experience developing software in Python and other modern languages, and you've built AI/ML solutions that work outside the lab. You know what it takes to get from prototype to something people actually use.
- Security and Internet Fundamentals: You know cybersecurity best practices and have a strong grasp of how the internet works, including network protocols, provider operations, and governance. That foundation lets you see where AI systems connect with real-world infrastructure and risk.
- Trusted Technical Advisor: You give sound advice on a range of security topics, grounded in research and expert judgment. You explain complex technical approaches clearly, in writing and in person, to managers, technical staff, and customers alike.
- Collaborative and Discreet Professional: You work collaboratively and diplomatically with people inside and outside the organization. You plan and organize complex projects, and you handle confidential and sensitive information with care.
Requirements:
- BS in computer science, machine learning, cybersecurity, or related discipline with eight (8) years of experience; OR MS in the same fields with five (5) years of experience; OR PhD in the same fields with two (2) years of experience
- You have a willingness to travel (25%) outside of your office location to other SEI offices, sponsor sites, conferences, and offsite meetings.
- You will be subject to a background investigation, and you must have the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of War security clearance.
Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.
Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.
Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!
For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.
At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.
Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!
Location
Arlington, VA, Pittsburgh, PAJob Function
Software/Applications Development/EngineeringPosition Type
Staff – RegularFull Time/Part time
Full timePay Basis
SalaryMore Information:
Please visit “Why Carnegie Mellon” to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.
Click here to view a listing of employee benefits
Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.
Statement of Assurance
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in computer science, machine learning, cybersecurity, or a related discipline plus eight years of experience
- Master's degree in computer science, machine learning, cybersecurity, or a related discipline plus five years of experience
- PhD in computer science, machine learning, cybersecurity, or a related discipline plus two years of experience
- Hands-on experience in AI-based research, vulnerability research and analysis, and statistical modeling
- Experience developing software in Python and other modern programming languages
- Experience building AI or machine learning solutions for practical use
- Strong knowledge of cybersecurity practices, internet fundamentals, and network protocols
- Ability to travel approximately 25%
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Department of War security clearance
Carnegie Mellon University Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Carnegie Mellon University and has not been reviewed or approved by Carnegie Mellon University.
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Retirement Support — Retirement support is positioned as a standout, with automatic employer contributions to a TIAA-administered plan at 8% of base salary (and 9.78% for 9‑month academic appointments), plus optional employee deferrals. Vesting after three years is clearly specified, which helps set expectations for long-term value.
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Parental & Family Support — Parental and family support is strengthened by 100% paid parental leave for six weeks and 100% paid maternity leave for 6–8 weeks (delivery-type dependent), effective July 1, 2024. Childcare support is also referenced through a Cyert Center subsidy up to $5,000 per family, alongside no-cost EAP access.
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Wellbeing & Lifestyle Benefits — Wellbeing and lifestyle benefits include free Pittsburgh Regional Transit access and access to fitness classes and facilities, adding recurring non-cash value to the overall package. Pittsburgh’s relatively affordable cost of living can further increase the perceived adequacy of a given salary compared with higher-cost coastal hubs.
Carnegie Mellon University Insights
What We Do
Carnegie Mellon University founder Andrew Carnegie said: "My heart is in the work." No statement better captures the passion and drive of our people to make a real difference. At Carnegie Mellon, we're not afraid of the work. Our educational environment creates problem solvers, drivers of innovation and pioneers in technology and the arts. Employers in every field say our graduates are ready to hit the ground running the day they graduate. So, join us. Whether you're looking for a career or an education. Or both.


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