Sargent & Lundy is looking for an AI/Automation Solution Lead to spearhead our digital transformation initiatives. This role is pivotal in designing comprehensive automation strategies, mentoring cross-functional teams, and delivering best-in-class digital products that impact the energy sector.
What You'll Do
- Define a multi-year strategic plan for AI and automation across the company, prioritizing initiatives aligned with business objectives.
- Translate business needs from leaders in Finance, HR, Procurement, and Engineering into actionable technical projects.
- Establish KPIs and ROI frameworks to measure automation impact (e.g., throughput, cost savings, error reduction).
- Oversee the full lifecycle of AI and automation solutions from feasibility studies to scalable deployment.
- Coordinate the adoption and integration of third-party and internal AI platforms within the company's ecosystem.
- Supervise a team of AI/ML Engineers, Data Scientists, Data Engineers, RPA Specialists, and Full Stack Software Developers.
- Design, implement, and maintain AI governance structures focusing on security, data privacy, and regulatory compliance.
- Champion ethical AI initiatives ensuring transparency, explainability, and fairness in automated decision-making.
- Mandate thorough documentation of system design, testing, deployment, and auditing for traceability.
- Build and mentor agile, cross-disciplinary teams composed of data scientists, engineers, process owners, and IT specialists.
- Develop and deliver AI literacy and upskilling training modules for technical and non-technical audiences.
- Guide business units through automation adoption, managing cultural shifts and resistance.
- Monitor industry trends in AI/ML, RPA, cloud computing, and regulatory changes affecting the power and energy sectors.
- Identify areas for innovation pilots and proof-of-concept projects.
- Collect feedback, analyze results, and iterate on AI/automation systems to ensure maximum value.
What We're Looking For
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, or a related technical field.
- 7+ years of professional experience delivering AI/ML and automation solutions at scale.
- Demonstrated expertise with major AI/ML frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn), RPA technologies, and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud).
- Experience architecting and deploying production-grade automation systems in operational or engineering environments.
- Strong proficiency in software development (Python preferred), data engineering, and project management methods (Agile, Scrum, Kanban).
- Track record of stakeholder engagement, translating business needs into technical solutions, and leading technical teams.
- Knowledge of data governance, responsible AI principles, and regulatory compliance for sensitive/regulated industries.
- Outstanding communication skills; proven ability to educate, influence and drive adoption across multidisciplinary teams.
Nice to Have
- Experience in the nuclear power or energy sector is a distinct advantage.
- Proven skills in opportunity discovery, demand management frameworks, and strategic intake processes.
- Ability to work in fast-paced, multidisciplinary environments with high visibility and accountability.
- Passion for continuous learning and advancing industry best practices in AI and automation.
Technical Stack
- AI/ML Frameworks: TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn
- RPA technologies
- Cloud Platforms: AWS, Azure, Google Cloud
- Programming Language: Python
Team & Environment
You will lead a multidisciplinary AI/Automation taskforce. The team consists of AI/ML Engineers, Data Scientists, Data Engineers, RPA Specialists, and Full Stack Software Developers.
Benefits & Compensation
- Comprehensive healthcare plans (Medical, Dental, Vision)
- Generous paid time off
- Life & Accident Insurance
Work Mode
This is a hybrid position working out of our Chicago office.
Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer.
