Director of Enterprise AI Development and Operations

Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA)•Austin, TX

About The Position

The Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) is seeking a visionary and results-driven Director of Enterprise AI Development and Operations to lead our enterprise artificial intelligence strategy, development, and support function. We ensure our AI capabilities are safe, compliant, cost-effective, and value-driven as we continue to innovate and modernize our infrastructure and services. As a key leader, you will partner closely with our business units to scale AI solutions to diverse needs. This role will work with technology teams to define enterprise architecture, establish robust guardrails for risk, cost, and security, and foster ethical AI practices while building and directing a high-performing technical team. At LCRA, we provide public power, manage water supplies, develop public parks, and offer grid services across Texas. If applying cutting-edge AI technologies to vital infrastructure that powers and sustains Texas communities interests you, Apply Today!

Requirements

Twelve or more years of experience in information technology, AI engineering or other relevant experience, including five years of IT management experience.
A degree(s) in engineering, computer science, information technology, science or relevant field may be substituted per LCRA guidelines for certain years of experience.

Nice To Haves

Strong emphasis on enterprise AI/ML solutions, digital transformation, and team management.
Demonstrated knowledge of modern enterprise AI frameworks, Large Language Models (LLMs), vector databases, AI agents, data lakes, and secure coding practices.
Strong understanding of cybersecurity principles, data governance, privacy regulations, AI ethics, and threat surface mitigation.
Proven ability to manage cloud computing costs, API token consumption, and operational budgets for technology investments.
Exceptional stakeholder management skills with a track record of bridging technical strategy with cross-functional business priorities.

Responsibilities

Provide strategic direction, management, and supervision for the Enterprise AI department and staff aligned with LCRA’s overall organizational strategy.
Lead the strategy, system architecture, and lifecycle development of scalable AI solutions delivering measurable business ROI.
Champion industry best practices across Large Language Models (LLMs), vector databases, AI agent development, and automated coding.
Develop long-term technology roadmaps covering upgrades, data migrations, and system retirements.
Ensure all LLMs, AI models, and associated toolsets align strictly with LCRA governance standards, data lake policies, and cybersecurity requirements.
Identify and mitigate technical, operational, and reputational risks, including algorithmic bias, privacy vulnerabilities, and security threats.
Oversee threat assessments and automated vulnerability identification to strengthen organizational resilience against AI-powered social engineering and emerging vectors.