AI Engineer (Defence)

About the role

Neptune North is a specialised technical consultancy focused on delivering advanced technology solutions within high‑stakes sectors. This position offers ownership of full AI delivery cycles for defence initiatives, requiring strong collaboration with an AI Lead. The work involves solving complex, high‑pressure problems in contested and sensitive environments. You will engage across the project lifecycle, from initial concept to operational deployment, ensuring solutions meet strict defence requirements.

The role is based in Newcastle upon Tyne and operates under UK security protocols. Successful candidates will work on diverse projects that include applied research, prototype development, and the implementation of production‑grade systems. You will be expected to contribute technically while also elevating the capability of the wider team through knowledge sharing and consistent excellence.

Key facts

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Location: Newcastle upon Tyne

• Reporting line: AI Lead
• Defence
• Security clearance: UK SC‑level eligibility is mandatory; UK nationality required
• Visa sponsorship: Not available for this role

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Compensation: £65,000 to £85,000 per year

• Application review: Ongoing on a rolling basis

What you'll do

• Design and implement complete AI pipelines for defence, covering requirements gathering, development, and delivery.
• Build experimental prototypes and scalable production systems, integrating Large Language Models and Retrieval‑Augmented Generation within strict operational constraints.
• Conduct thorough analysis of model behaviour and safety, applying rigorous testing in simulated contested and edge conditions.
• Deploy reliable AI components that satisfy operational needs and comply with defence standards.
• Collaborate closely with clients and stakeholders to refine solutions in response to evolving priorities.
• Promote and implement reusable architectural patterns and shared tools to improve team efficiency.
• Lead experimentation with novel learning methods tailored for edge devices and low‑power scenarios.
• Communicate technical concepts clearly to both specialist and non‑specialist audiences on a daily basis.

Requirements

• Demonstrate a deep, engineering‑level understanding of core AI and machine learning concepts.
• Possess expertise in machine learning models at the algorithmic level, rather than treating models as black‑box components.
• Have hands‑on experience in at least one of the following areas: AI safety and security, low‑power and edge AI, explainability, robustness in contested environments, novel learning approaches, agentic AI, integration of LLMs into workflows including RAG, or multimodal AI systems.
• Show excellent programming ability, primarily in Python and potentially other modern languages.
• Adhere to strong software engineering standards, including robust testing, maintainable design, and disciplined delivery practices.
• Communicate effectively in writing and speech, with structured, precise, and clear arguments.
• Work productively within teams, actively sharing knowledge and supporting colleagues.
• Operate confidently in ambiguous situations while maintaining a disciplined, outcome‑focused approach.
• Hold a strong academic record, typically evidenced by a first‑class or upper second‑class honours degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Machine Learning, or a closely related discipline.
• Prior experience in defence or national security contexts is highly desirable.

What you can achieve

• Contribute directly to AI solutions that enhance UK defence capability and national security.
• Build a robust foundation in both prototype and production AI engineering, establishing practices that will define your career trajectory.
• Expand your skills across the full AI engineering stack and a diverse set of technologies.
• Learn under the guidance of experienced AI and software engineers committed to your professional development.
• Participate in meaningful technical decisions as part of a collaborative, low‑ego engineering culture.

Why join us

• Work on compelling problems alongside colleagues of high calibre in a collaborative and supportive environment where growth and belonging are actively fostered.
• Enjoy 25 days of annual holiday plus bank holidays.
• Benefit from matching pension contributions of up to 6%.
• Receive private health insurance through Bupa.
• Access a discretionary bonus scheme.

Equity, diversity and inclusion

Neptune North is committed to maintaining a workplace that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. The company believes that varied backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences strengthen its ability to attract, develop, and retain top talent. Employment decisions are made without discrimination on the basis of gender, age, race, ethnicity, or other protected characteristics.

Skills & tools

Python, machine learning frameworks, data pipelines, Large Language Models, Retrieval‑Augmented Generation, multimodal systems.

Practical notes

Please verify all details on the official application page. Candidates must meet the eligibility and security requirements outlined above. Applications are reviewed continuously on a rolling basis.