AI​/ML Discipline Lead

Job Category: AI, ML, Robotics and Data Analytics

Lead and grow a specialist AI/ML discipline, delivering state-of-the-art engineered solutions for real operational problems.

Join a professional, supportive team delivering transformative innovation for Australian Defence.

Access competitive remuneration, flexible working arrangements, and a healthy work–life balance.

Seeking a motivated Senior Computer Scientist / Software Engineer to provide technical leadership and people management across our Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) capability.

This role will lead Swordfish Computing’s AI/ML discipline across multiple Defence-focused projects, acting as a trusted technical advisor, mentor, leader, and Defence-facing representative. You will shape both delivery execution and the evolution of our AI/ML capability and technical direction.

Working closely with the CTO, project leads, and Defence stakeholders, you will ensure AI/ML solutions are technically robust, fit for purpose, and aligned with customer needs and company priorities.

At Swordfish, we deliver transformative innovation through the integration of STEM disciplines and deep strategic and operational Defence knowledge at the cutting edge of Australian Defence and space research. Over 25 years, Swordfish has established a reputation for innovative R&D and is a preferred and trusted technology partner.

We offer opportunities for the right candidates to work amongst high-calibre, passionate and supportive teammates, employing Agile software engineering practices, modern tool stacks, and advanced AI/ML technologies to create solutions that deliver tactical and strategic advantage to Australian Defence.

At Swordfish, our people are our highest priority. We recognise and invest in the unique strengths each individual brings, and we act with integrity to support one another to perform at our best. We foster an open and honest working environment built on collaboration and trust; one that welcomes new ideas, values alternative perspectives, and encourages better ways of doing things.

We are passionate about what we do, and we welcome new team members who want to contribute, grow, and make an impact.

A motivated Senior Software Engineer / Computer Scientist with a broad background in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, and a strong commitment to modern software engineering practices. You are passionate about building and leading high-performing engineering teams that deliver robust, maintainable, production-quality software in close partnership with Defence researchers and stakeholders.

You enjoy leading teams that solve technically challenging problems across domains such as aerospace systems, combat and mission systems, electronic warfare, and trusted autonomy. You value working closely with clients and Defence stakeholders to shape technical direction and future capability, ensuring solutions are fit-for-purpose, and are executed to a high professional standard.

You will empower teams to deliver next-generation Defence capability by combining AI/ML approaches (including Generative AI, CNNs, NLP, LLMs, and computer vision) with rigorous software engineering practices, including architecture, test strategy, Dev Sec Ops  considerations, and disciplined delivery through Agile engineering methodology. In this role, you will work consultatively with your team, leveraging their deep expertise to shape sound technical decisions, while remaining accountable for delivery quality, schedules, budgets and stakeholder expectations.

We value people who enjoy working with others to solve technical challenges. We seek problem-solvers committed to continuous learning and improvement, individually and as part of a team, who collaborate generously and support those around them. We care about helping each other and our clients achieve success.

As the AI/ML Discipline Lead, you will:

Discipline & People Leadership

Lead and develop a growing team of AI/ML and software engineers

Conduct performance reviews, mentoring, coaching, and career planning

Support recruitment and growth of the AI/ML…