Innovation Manager

Harris County Sheriff's Office•Houston, TX

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Innovation Manager leads the Sheriff’s Office innovation program by identifying, evaluating, piloting, and operationalizing emerging technologies including artificial intelligence, robotics, unmanned systems, automation, real-time intelligence systems, and advanced analytics to improve public safety and operational effectiveness.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, or a related field
Six (6) or more years in technology roles with direct exposure to emerging technologies or innovation initiatives, including prototyping, solution design, or applied research and development
An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered
Working knowledge of AI/ML, automation, APIs, or systems integration
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Ability to translate technical concepts for executive and non-technical stakeholders
Ability to manage, mentor, and develop technical staff

Nice To Haves

Experience in public safety, government, or another regulated environment
Familiarity with drone/UAV programs, robotics, or computer vision systems
Experience with platforms such as Python, cloud services (Azure/AWS), or AI development tools
Exposure to human-centered design or design-thinking methodologies
Experience working with startups or innovation ecosystems

Responsibilities

Continuously scans the landscape of emerging technologies, including AI/ML, robotics, unmanned aerial systems, computer vision, autonomous systems, and the Internet of Things
Identifies vendors, startups, academic research, and industry trends applicable to public safety
Serves as the subject matter resource on emerging capabilities and future-state technologies
Translates conceptual ideas into proofs-of-concept, prototypes, or pilot programs
Designs and executes structured experiments to validate technical feasibility and operational value
Leverages low-code/no-code tools, APIs, and development platforms to accelerate prototyping
Works closely with the Technology Management team to integrate innovations
Partners with vendors and external agencies to co-develop and test solutions
Maintains a structured pipeline of ideas, experiments, and initiatives
Tracks progress from concept to prototype to pilot to production recommendation
Presents regular updates and demonstrations to executive leadership
Manages AI Solutions Engineers and other technical specialists assigned to the innovation program
Builds and maintains an internal “innovation lab” capability
Mentors technical staff and fosters a culture of experimentation
Coordinates with infrastructure, cybersecurity, and data platform teams