About DEFCON AI
What is DEFCON AI?
DEFCON AI is an insights company that leverages artificial intelligence, mathematical optimization, data analytics, and software engineering for resilient optimization of complex systems. The company tagline frames the mission concisely: "resilience in the face of disruption."
In DEFCON AI's own words: "in today's dynamically changing world, DEFCON AI's technology aligns outcomes with operational goals, better decision making, and empowers customers to anticipate, assess, and mitigate the impacts of disruptions." The technology stack centres on data-driven systems, optimization engines, and ML-enabled decision support — applied primarily to DOD program work, including modeling, simulation, and analysis (MS&A) for transportation and logistics operations within the modern military environment.
DEFCON AI was incubated by Red Cell Partners and launched in 2022. The company raised $44M in Seed financing in August 2024, having previously closed millions in Department of the Air Force Phase II and Phase III SBIR contracts. CEO Yisroel Brumer (co-founder) leads the team.
Several active roles require TS/SCI clearance, reflecting the depth of the company's defense engagements. The flagship program is described in JDs as a "large, software-intensive, AI-enabled DOD program transitioning from prototype into sustained operational use" — a phase that spans engineering, LLM and AI/ML development, integration, cyber, cloud, and operational stakeholders.
Where will I work?
DEFCON AI is headquartered at 1800 Tysons Blvd., Suite 900, McLean, VA 22102, and operates as a fully remote, results-based environment within the United States. Roles are typically "remote from the Washington, DC area, with the willingness to attend frequent in-person meetings with government and industry partners."
What is the DEFCON AI team like?
DEFCON AI is hiring a small, deeply experienced team — current Greenhouse roles include Deputy Program Manager (TS/SCI required), Master Scheduler, and Senior DevSecOps / Platform Security Engineer with AWS + Kubernetes expertise. JDs are explicit that DEFCON AI looks for people who "live inside execution, not just oversight," who are "comfortable managing programs built on AI-foundational approaches," and who "understand DOD software realities but lean forward in acquisition and delivery thinking."
The company's compensation philosophy is transparent — JDs disclose specific salary ranges (e.g. $175K–$215K for the Deputy Program Manager role), plus bonus and equity package.
Work-Life Balance
DEFCON AI offers Unlimited PTO with manager's approval alongside a fully remote, results-based environment. The flexibility framing is explicit on the careers page: "flexible work environment where you manage your work day." Parental leave is generous at 14 weeks of fully-paid maternity and paternity leave at employees' normal pay.
Perks and Benefits
- Unlimited PTO with manager's approval, plus observed federal holidays
- 100% employer-paid comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision) for you AND your family
- 14 weeks of fully-paid maternity / paternity leave at normal pay
- Competitive salary, bonus, and equity package
- Optional retirement and savings accounts (401(k) + FSA)
- Fully remote within the United States — results-based environment
- Professional development opportunities
- Transparent salary ranges disclosed in JDs (e.g. $175K–$215K for Deputy PM)