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Software Engineering Manager, Public Sector

Scale AIWashington, DCPublic Sector Engineering
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Salary
Not listed
Job type
Full-time
Posted
15 Jul 2026
Status
Open · checked 7d ago

About this role

Scale AI is seeking a hands-on Software Engineering Manager to lead a team of engineers building core infrastructure and products for public sector missions in Washington, DC. This role is ideal for an experienced technical leader who wants to divide their time evenly between coding, system design, and people management.

Role Overview

The Software Engineering Manager oversees a team of six to eight engineers focusing on generative AI projects, backend systems, and distributed platforms for U.S. government partners. Half of the schedule is dedicated to technical execution and planning, while the other half focuses on team development, mentorship, and recruiting. The position requires commuting to the Washington, DC office three days per week and candidates must have or be able to obtain a TS/SCI clearance.

Key Responsibilities

Recruit, guide, and mentor a high-performing software engineering team working on generative AI solutions.
Design and implement scalable backend systems, data-intensive applications, and machine learning infrastructure for federal customers.
Collaborate cross-functionally with product, security, and customer-facing teams to meet complex federal compliance standards.
Drive engineering productivity and contribute to the platform roadmap and product strategy for the Federal business.
Engage directly with customer stakeholders to understand requirements and deliver innovative technology solutions.

Requirements

Minimum of five years of full-time engineering experience post-graduation.
At least two years of prior engineering management or equivalent leadership experience.
Proven background in software development and scaling products at hyper-growth startups.
Strong track record as an individual contributor and mentor.
Excellent communication skills with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
Ability to obtain or possess a TS/SCI clearance.
Ability to commute to the Washington, DC office three times per week.

Nice to Have

Existing TS/SCI clearance.
Deep technical knowledge of software development with a willingness to write code alongside the team.
Experience working with AI platforms, generative models, and large language models.
Previous experience in government or government-facing technology roles.
Familiarity with cloud-native technologies, full-stack development, data engineering, and MLOps infrastructure.

Skills and Tools

Backend systems design
Distributed systems and cloud-native AI infrastructure
Machine learning infrastructure and MLOps
Generative AI and LLMs
Federal compliance frameworks

Salary and Benefits

The base salary range for this full-time position in Washington, DC is $223,200 to $279,000 USD, with exact placement depending on qualifications, experience, and location. Eligible roles also include equity-based compensation subject to board approval. Comprehensive benefits feature health, dental, and vision coverage, retirement benefits, a learning and development stipend, generous paid time off, and potential commuter stipends.

About the Company

Scale AI develops reliable AI systems and high-quality data technologies that power leading models for enterprises and governments. The company collaborates with industry leaders, healthcare organizations, and U.S. defense agencies including the Air Force and Army. Scale AI values inclusivity and operates as an equal opportunity workplace.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should visit the official company careers page to submit an application.

Questions candidates ask

What is the location of the Software Engineering Manager role?

The position is based in Washington, DC, with a requirement to commute to the office three days per week.

What is the salary range for this position in Washington, DC?

The base salary range is between $223,200 and $279,000 USD.

What security clearance is required?

Candidates must have or have the ability to obtain a TS/SCI clearance.

How is the time split in this management role?

The role splits time evenly, with 50% dedicated to technical planning and execution and 50% to people management and team development.

What experience is required to apply?

Applicants need at least 5 years of full-time post-graduation engineering experience, including a minimum of 2 years in engineering management or equivalent leadership.

Ready to apply?

The application is on the official Scale AI careers page.

Apply on company site