Associate Director, AI & Data (State and Local Government)

Guidehouse•Arlington, VA

2d•$149,000 - $248,000

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced Associate Director to join our growing AI and Data practice, with a dedicated focus on the Federal Civilian Agencies (FCA) market within the Communities, Energy & Infrastructure (CEI) segment. This individual will be a hands-on leader, responsible for both business development and delivery of AI- and data-driven solutions that enable federal clients to achieve mission outcomes, operational efficiency, and digital transformation. This is a leadership role for someone who thrives at the intersection of technology, data, and public sector strategy. The Associate Director will oversee cross-functional teams and collaborate directly with client executives and business leaders to drive value through advanced analytics, data strategy, and AI-based solutions. This is a leadership role for someone who thrives at the intersection of technology, data, and industry strategy.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree is required
Minimum SEVEN (7) years of experience of hands-on AI development, engineering, and analytics expertise
Minimum FIVE (5) years of experience delivering technical solutions and programs to public sector organizations.
Strong understanding of AI/ML technologies, data platforms (e.g. Snowflake, Databricks, AWS/GCP/Azure), and analytics methodologies.
Demonstrated experience supporting the business development lifecycle, such as capture and proposal writing related activities.
Proven track record of leading large-scale AI/ML and data engagements from concept to execution.
Experience with GenAI technologies and trends, with an understanding of how to incorporate into impactful solutions and services.
Demonstrated ability to source and lead the formation and execution of successful partnerships between and across major stakeholders including technology partners and business end-users.
Proven ability to collaborate with audiences with a wide range of technical knowledge and at different levels of an organization, from the C-Suite (CIO, CISO, CDO) to an engineering and or architecture team.
Ability to influence and motivate a team of data and AI specialists across a variety of functions to establish and deliver capabilities at scale.
Excellent communication, facilitation, and relationship-building skills.

Nice To Haves

Master’s Degree
AI/LLM Certifications
Project Management Professional (PMP)
Hands on experience bringing GenAI solutions to production.
Experience working with state and local clients.
Familiarity with federal contracting and procurement processes.

Responsibilities

Client Leadership & Delivery Serve as a trusted advisor to state and local government clients on establishing an AI strategy that encompass both building core AI capabilities, as well as addressing key use cases around organizational priorities (e.g., constituent facing AI-enabled services, mission operations optimiztions, enhanced predictive planning).
Lead engagements from strategy through implementation, ensuring delivery excellence and measurable outcomes.
Translate complex business challenges into actionable AI/ML and data solutions using platforms such as Snowflake, Databricks, and Azure/AWS/GCP.
Solution Development & Innovation Design and lead AI/ML and analytics solutions using best-in-class tools and platforms.
Translate business challenges into actionable use cases and scalable data and AI products and services.
Stay ahead of industry trends and emerging technologies to inform solution development.
Advise and lead the technical design and development of AI/ML and data solutions.
Business Development Drive growth through capture support, proposal development, and strategic pursuits.
Collaborate with partners and directors to expand Guidehouse’s footprint in the state and local government market.
Contribute to thought leadership and represent the firm in industry forums and client discussions.
Practice & Team Leadership Mentor and lead multidisciplinary teams including scientists, engineers, and consultants.
Support recruiting, onboarding, and talent development within the AI & Data practice.
Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.

Benefits

Medical, Rx, Dental & Vision Insurance
Personal and Family Sick Time & Company Paid Holidays
Position may be eligible for a discretionary variable incentive bonus
Parental Leave and Adoption Assistance
401(k) Retirement Plan
Basic Life & Supplemental Life
Health Savings Account, Dental/Vision & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
Student Loan PayDown
Tuition Reimbursement, Personal Development & Learning Opportunities
Skills Development & Certifications
Employee Referral Program
Corporate Sponsored Events & Community Outreach
Emergency Back-Up Childcare Program
Mobility Stipend