Director, Data & AI Services

The Aerospace Corporation • El Segundo, CA

1d

About The Position

The Aerospace Corporation is hiring a Director of Data and AI Services in its Office of the CIO. This newly created leadership role reports directly to the Chief Data and Privacy Officer and is responsible for establishing and scaling the organization’s enterprise data and AI services. The team provides modeling, machine learning, and predictive analytics to support enterprise services operations and strategic decision-making.

The Director will define and deliver data and AI services across Enterprise Service Operations, partnering with IT, HR, Finance, Legal, Security, and other functions. This is a hands-on role combining strategic leadership with direct involvement in technical delivery, architecture decisions, team coaching, and day-to-day problem-solving.

The position requires a bachelor’s or advanced degree in a relevant STEM field, at least 12 years of relevant experience, including at least five years in people management or team leadership, and the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain the clearance. Occasional domestic travel to work locations or customer sites is expected, approximately 10–20%. The listed annual pay range is $165,100–$247,600; individual compensation depends on factors including education, experience, knowledge, and skills.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or advanced degree in Statistics, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Data Science, Information Systems, or a related STEM field.
• 12 or more years of experience in data engineering, data science, AI/ML, or enterprise technology leadership.
• At least five years in a people management or team leadership role.
• Demonstrated experience building, scaling, or transforming data and/or AI functions in a complex enterprise environment.
• Hands-on technical experience with modern data platforms, AI/ML technologies, and enterprise data architecture, including the ability to engage in technical discussions and decision-making.
• Track record of leading cross-functional initiatives and influencing stakeholders across multiple business functions.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills, including the ability to translate technical concepts into business value for executive audiences.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance; U.S. citizenship is required to obtain the clearance.
• Willingness to travel domestically occasionally, approximately 10–20%.

Nice To Haves

• Experience establishing or standing up a new data and/or AI function within a large organization.
• Experience in aerospace, defense, or other highly regulated government environments.
• Familiarity with data privacy, data governance, and compliance frameworks such as CUI, ITAR, and export control.
• Experience partnering with executives to prioritize data and AI solution development in a consultative manner.

Responsibilities

• Build and grow a new Data and AI Services function while remaining engaged in technical delivery, architecture decisions, and problem-solving.
• Partner with the Chief Data and Privacy Officer to define and execute enterprise data and AI strategy aligned with organizational priorities and compliance requirements.
• Work with Enterprise Service Operations functions to identify opportunities for data and AI to modernize processes, improve efficiency, and enhance decision-making.
• Lead the design, delivery, and operational management of enterprise data and AI services, including data platforms, analytics capabilities, and AI/ML-enabled solutions.
• Build, mentor, and manage a high-performing team of data engineers, data scientists, and AI practitioners.
• Establish governance frameworks, service standards, and operational metrics to support reliable, secure, and scalable data and AI services.
• Communicate the value and progress of data and AI modernization efforts to senior leaders and organizational stakeholders.
• Travel occasionally to domestic work locations or customer sites, approximately 10–20%.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans.
• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation.
• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options.
• 401(k) plan with company-paid contributions of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service, plus matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested upon hire.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions.
• Relocation assistance.
• Professional growth and development programs.
• Education assistance programs.
• Inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director