Innovation Lead

TX-HHSC-DSHS-DFPS • Austin, TX

9d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Systems Analyst VII (Innovation Lead) will drive cloud and AI innovation initiatives across the enterprise, delivering strategic solutions that align with agency objectives and enterprise architecture. This role combines innovation strategy, solution design, project leadership, and cross-functional collaboration to rapidly prototype, pilot, and implement next-generation technologies. The Innovation Lead will also manage multiple innovation projects, guide solution delivery, and support adoption across stakeholders.

Requirements

• Proven experience leading cloud, AI, or emerging technology initiatives from concept to production.
• Strong knowledge of cloud platforms (Azure, AWS, GCP), SaaS, and system integration.
• Experience with rapid prototyping, and scaling innovations.
• Expertise in project management and agile delivery frameworks (Scrum, Kanban, hybrid).
• Proficiency with JIRA, Azure DevOps, ServiceNow, or similar tools for managing requirements and backlogs.
• Strong analytical skills for evaluating technology trends, creating business cases, and measuring ROI.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and stakeholder management skills with both technical and executive audiences.
• Experience leading cross-functional teams and vendor management efforts.
• Ability to mentor and guide teams on innovation, product management, and modernization practices.
• Knowledge of public sector modernization initiatives and data-driven decision-making.
• Strong understanding of data-driven decision-making and reporting tools.
• Experience leading cross-functional teams and vendor management efforts.
• Ability to mentor junior analysts and promote best practices in requirements and product management.
• Knowledge of the limitations and capabilities of computer systems, the techniques used in the design of non-automated systems, information technology equipment, applicable programming languages, computer hardware and software, computer operating systems, writing program code, and automated mapping.
• Skill in solving problems; in scheduling, testing, installing, and implementing programs; and in troubleshooting computer systems.
• Ability to analyze systems and procedures, to write and revise standards and procedures, and to communicate effectively.
• Ability to oversee and/or supervise the work of others.
• Proven ability to gather, document, and manage business and technical requirements for enterprise solutions.
• Demonstrated ability to translate emerging technology potential into actionable business solutions in complex environments
• Bachelor's degree in computer science, Information Systems, or related field (or equivalent experience on a year for year basis).
• 8+ years of experience in technology innovation, systems analysis, or product delivery.

Nice To Haves

• Preferred certifications: PMP, CSPO, SAFe Agilist, Cloud or AI-related certifications (e.g., AWS Solution Architect, Azure AI Engineer).

Responsibilities

• Defining and managing innovation roadmaps, overseeing proof-of-concept portfolios, and ensuring smooth transitions from pilot projects to full-scale production.
• Supervising the development of business cases, conducting feasibility studies, and crafting modernization strategies.
• Partnering with enterprise architects to design cloud and AI solutions that are scalable, secure, and sustainable, supporting overall enterprise goals and technology advancement.
• Engage with stakeholders through interviews, conducting research on emerging technologies, and leading design-thinking workshops to foster innovation.
• Examines current versus future state processes to pinpoint gaps and recommends AI or cloud-enabled solutions tailored to organizational needs.
• Developing comprehensive requirements, user stories, and process flows to support both pilot projects and large-scale enterprise initiatives.
• Overseeing the entire innovation delivery process, encompassing planning, prioritization, implementation, testing, and final handoff.
• Tracking key milestones, identifying risks, and monitoring performance metrics to ensure projects are completed on time and maintaining high standards of quality.
• Coordinating cross-functional teams, vendors, and technical resources to facilitate scalable and effective solution deployment.
• Lead or support solution validation activities, including evaluating AI models, conducting performance testing, and coordinating deployment efforts.
• Collaboration with DevOps, data, and cloud engineering teams is essential to ensure the effectiveness of implemented solutions.
• Monitoring post-launch outcomes and continuously iterating solutions based on user feedback and performance metrics.
• Assessing technology trends, evaluating emerging AI tools, and reviewing cloud services to identify and recommend strategic investments for the organization.
• Providing comprehensive reporting, analysis, and actionable recommendations that guide enterprise IT and innovation initiatives, ensuring that technological advancements align with the agency’s goals and support future growth.
• Ensure the successful adoption of new solutions; this role leads to training, communication, and documentation initiatives.
• Supports change management by engaging stakeholders through interactive demonstrations and providing educational materials that facilitate understanding and buy-in for emerging technologies.
• Collaborate with enterprise teams to support CTO-level initiatives and other special projects assigned.

Benefits

• comprehensive benefits package includes 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees
• defined benefit pension plan
• generous time off benefits
• numerous opportunities for career advancement

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees