General informationRequisition # R69420
Locations USA-VA-Herndon
Posting Date 07/31/2026
Security Clearance Required None
Remote Type Hybrid
Time Type Full time
Description & RequirementsMANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented Executive Director, Distinguished Engineer to join our Data and AI team in Herndon, VA.
The Executive Director will leverage their technical expertise and strategic vision to drive advanced artificial intelligence consulting, direct high-impact client initiatives, and lead internally funded research and development portfolios.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:- Leading strategic Data and AI engagements and delivering executive-level technical vision for complex client solutions.
- Directing internally funded R&D initiatives to advance corporate capabilities, drive sector requests, and establish strategic differentiation.
- Developing technical accelerators derived from internal research to optimize and scale solutions for client deployment.
- Generating data-driven insights and frameworks to support corporate expert points of view and thought leadership.
- Demonstrating the art of the possible through advanced AI prototypes, proofs of concept, and technical solutions for new business pursuits.
- Balancing client-facing delivery priorities with internal R&D advancements to maintain agility and technical flexibility.
Minimum Qualifications:- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
- 15+ years of progressively responsible experience in AI, strategic technical leadership, and data engineering.
- Proven experience establishing long-term technical visions and delivering scalable AI solutions within client environments.
- Demonstrated track record of leading internal R&D projects that result in deployable software accelerators or specialized capabilities.
- Strong experience supporting business development through technical solution architecture, prototyping, and proposal writing.
- Ability to navigate a flexible role encompassing both high-touch client delivery and internal corporate research.
Preferred Qualifications:- Master's degree or Ph.D. in Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, or a related advanced technical field.
- Extensive experience delivering AI, machine learning, and data analytics architectures within the Government Contracting sector.
- Recognized industry thought leader with a history of technical publications, patents, or executive presentations.
- Exceptional communication skills with a proven ability to translate complex AI concepts for non-technical stakeholders.
Clearance Requirements:- U.S. Citizen with the ability to obtain a Top Secret clearance
Physical Requirements:- Must be able to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time.
- Needs to occasionally move about inside the office to access file cabinets, office machinery, etc.
- Frequently communicates with co-workers, management, and customers, which may involve delivering presentations. Must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations.
The projected compensation range for this position is $165,900.00-$297,100.00. There are differentiating factors that can impact a final salary/hourly rate, including, but not limited to, Contract Wage Determination, relevant work experience, skills and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location (For Remote Opportunities), education and certifications as well as Federal Government Contract Labor categories. In addition, MANTECH invests in its employees beyond just compensation. MANTECH's benefits offerings include, dependent upon position, Health Insurance, Life Insurance, Paid Time Off, Holiday Pay, short-term and long-term Disability, Retirement and Savings, Learning and Development opportunities, wellness programs as well as other optional benefit elections.
