Senior Expert

• In this position, you will be responsible for conduct exploration of cutting-edge AI technologies (LLMs, RL, multi-agent AI, autonomy, generative AI, etc.), designing and building rapid prototypes, proof-of-concepts, and demonstrators, as well as evaluating technical feasibility, system impact, and performance in defence-related scenarios. This includes using simulations and synthetic data methods to accelerate R&D in data-constrained environments and supporting the transition of prototypes towards higher TRLs and eventual integration.
• In addition, you will track global AI research trends and emerging technologies, perform TRL/MRL assessments and recommend investment priorities, and identify high-impact, dual-use AI innovations suitable for defence applications.
• You will also be responsible for applying AI frameworks, implementing test and evaluation strategies and advising leadership on regulatory implications (e.g., EU AI Act, NIST AI RMF, NATO Frameworks).
• You will also be responsible for contributing to the AI strategy development and implementation, promoting AI skills to the teams and communicating technology opportunities and constraints across technical and leadership audiences. Moreover you will mentor junior technologists as well as supporting internal capability building, and help shape talent strategies.
• You will lead cross-functional projects and work closely with IT, R&D, engineering, business units, and program teams. You will also support coordination and integration activities, together with platform architects, system engineers, and mission experts as well as participate in customer-facing technical exchanges and demonstrations.

• You have a PhD or advanced degree in AI/ML, computer science, systems engineering, or a related field. Ideally, you have experience working with defence or high-assurance industries and have previously been involved in defence research programs or innovation labs.
• Your 10 years of professional experience in AI/ML, applied research or emerging tech R&D as well as strong hands-on experience in ML/DL (PyTorch/TensorFlow), rapid prototyping and experimental design are the ideal prerequisites for this position. In addition, you have a proven track record in scouting, evaluating and maturing strategic and operational potential in new technologies.
• Furthermore, you have an understanding of embedded AI/edge AI, model optimization, or autonomy as well as knowledge of synthetic data generation, simulation environments, or digital twins and familiarity with MLOps tools and best practices.
• You have excellent skills in communication, stakeholder management, mentoring and guiding multidisciplinary teams. You also have the ability to collaborate across domains and with external partners.

• In addition, very good written and spoken German and English skills round off your profile.

• Work location: Überlingen am Bodensee

• Job Level:
• Professional
• Working mode: On-site
• Working time: Full time
• Employment contract: permanent
• Division: Diehl Defence
• Start: 1 May 2026 or earlier

• Tariff compensation
• Flexible working hours
• Canteen
• Company health management
• Employee discounts

Diehl Defence GmbH & Co. KG

Jana Weber