Machine Learning Engineer

About the position

Are you a passionate Machine Learning Engineer ready to make a tangible impact with world-class AI solutions? Sightline Intelligence (formerly Athena AI), a leader in Defence Software and cutting-edge Computer Vision innovation, is searching for an exceptional engineer to join our growing team in Murarrie, Brisbane.

As a Machine Learning Engineer at Sightline Intelligence, you will spend time with experienced engineers to design, build, train and deploy computer vision models that operate on edge platforms. This is your chance to work on mission-critical projects with global impact, in an environment that champions innovation, creativity, and excellence.

About Sightline Intelligence

Sightline Intelligence (formerly Athena Artificial Intelligence) is a highly innovative Defence technology company delivering game-changing capabilities to international clients. Sightline Intelligence is one of the only companies providing vision-based AI systems to the Australian Defence industry that combines computer vision, AI enabled geospatial data analytics and AI augmented decision support to the connected battlefield.

Founded in 2007, the company continues to grow at a rapid pace. After our recent acquisition by the U.S.-based Sightline Applications, we are on a journey to grow into a global organisation and are looking for talented people to help facilitate that transition.

Key Responsibilities:

• Computer Vision Model Training

• Train/evaluate object detection, classification and segmentation models and run ablations.

• Convert/optimise models for edge (TensorRT, ONNX, TFLite, QNN) and validate accuracy vs latency.

• Data Curation and Annotation Pipeline

• Build pipelines to scrape/ingest data, de-duplicate & quality-filter, and auto/pre-label samples.

• Edge deployment & performance

• Benchmark on Jetson/Qualcomm targets; profile bottlenecks; report FPS/latency/memory and suggest trade-offs.

• MLOPS

• Architect and manage scalable MLOps pipelines and runners for seamless CI/CD.

• Scoping & Planning

• Work with senior engineers to define and break down work packages

• Estimate effort, plan sprints and track progress in Jira

• Collaboration & Documentation

• Participate in code reviews, testing and debugging to maintain high code quality

• Document algorithms, design decisions and development processes clearly
• Present demos and progress updates in internal team meetings

• Code Management

• Use Git for version control

• Adhere to best practices in code organization and CI/CD pipelines

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's in Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, or related fields.
• Demonstrated expertise in machine learning, deep learning, and statistical modelling.
• Proficiency in Python and ML frameworks such as PyTorch, or similar.
• Strong skills in data wrangling, analysis, and visualization (pandas, NumPy, scikit-learn).
• Desirable: Edge deployment experience (NVIDIA Jetson, Qualcomm).
• Desirable: Hands-on with MLOps pipelines and runners.
• Comfortable in Unix environments and at home working with large, complex datasets.
• Strong problem-solving instincts, technical curiosity, and meticulous attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Must be able to attain and maintain an Australian Government Security Clearance (baseline or NV1 desirable).

Why Sightline Intelligence?

• Elite Team: Join and learn from the very best in Defence AI—engineers and scientists who are shaping the future of technology.
• Cutting-Edge Projects: Work on real-world, high-impact AI applications at the forefront of defence innovation.
• Career Growth: Thrive in a culture that fosters professional development, continuous learning, and opportunities for leadership.
• Competitive Package: Receive a strong salary and benefits.
• Brisbane Location: Work in Murarrie, just outside the CBD, and enjoy a lifestyle free of city gridlock.

We encourage candidates with diverse backgrounds and experiences to apply, even if you feel you may not meet all the selection criteria. At Sightline Intelligence, we value the unique perspectives and skills that each candidate can bring to our team. 

Note that due to the nature of our projects, you MUST BE AN AUSTRALIAN CITIZEN to be considered for this position. Our roles require an Australian Government Security Clearance, or the ability to obtain one. Security clearances may only be granted to Australian citizens. Applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment may be subject to government security investigation(s) and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially welcoming you to our innovative and passionate team