Principal AI Architect

RESPONSIBILITIES:
Kforce has a client that is seeking a Principal AI Architect in Saint Paul, MN.

Summary:
We are seeking a Principal AI Architect to provide enterprise-wide technical leadership for artificial intelligence initiatives while remaining actively engaged in hands-on development. This role is responsible for defining and owning the organization's AI architecture strategy, leading complex and high-impact AI transformations, and serving as a trusted advisor to executive leadership.

The Principal AI Architect will establish AI governance and ethical AI frameworks, define long-term technical standards, mentor senior technical talent, and guide investment decisions related to emerging AI technologies. This individual combines deep technical expertise with strategic vision to deliver scalable, business-critical AI solutions across the enterprise.

Key Responsibilities:
* Define and own the enterprise AI architecture, standards, and technology roadmap
* Lead the design, development, and deployment of large-scale AI and machine learning solutions
* Provide technical leadership for strategic AI initiatives and enterprise transformation programs
* Architect scalable, distributed AI systems that integrate across cloud, data, and application ecosystems
* Establish governance, security, compliance, and ethical AI frameworks
* Partner with executive leadership to evaluate emerging technologies and drive AI innovation
* Serve as the organization's principal technical authority for AI and machine learning
* Mentor senior engineers, architects, and AI practitioners while developing future technical leaders
* Influence enterprise technology strategy and long-term architectural direction
* Drive adoption of modern AI capabilities, automation, and advanced analytics solutions

REQUIREMENTS:
* Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, or a related technical field
* 15+ years of experience in software engineering, systems architecture, and applied AI development
* Proven experience designing and implementing enterprise-scale AI and machine learning platforms
* Deep expertise in distributed systems, cloud computing, and large-scale data architectures
* Strong understanding of AI governance, responsible AI practices, security, and compliance
* Expert-level proficiency in Python and modern AI/ML frameworks
* Demonstrated success leading complex technical initiatives with enterprise-wide impact
* Exceptional communication, collaboration, and executive stakeholder engagement skills

Preferred Qualifications:
* Master's degree or PhD in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a related field
* Experience with Generative AI, Large Language Models (LLMs), agentic AI architectures, and MLOps
* Expertise with AWS, Azure, and/or Google Cloud Platform
* Track record of delivering AI solutions that drive measurable business outcomes at enterprise scale
* Industry recognition through publications, patents, conference presentations, or technical thought leadership

What Success Looks Like:
* Establishes and advances the organization's long-term AI strategy and architecture vision
* Delivers scalable, secure, and high-performing AI solutions across the enterprise
* Creates sustainable governance and technical standards for responsible AI adoption
* Develops high-performing technical teams and future AI leaders
* Positions the organization to capitalize on emerging AI technologies and industry advancements

The pay range is the lowest to highest compensation we reasonably in good faith believe we would pay at posting for this role. We may ultimately pay more or less than this range. Employee pay is based on factors like relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, location, performance, union contract and business needs. This range may be modified in the future.

We offer comprehensive benefits including medical/dental/vision insurance, HSA, FSA, 401(k), and life, disability & ADD insurance to eligible employees. Salaried personnel receive paid time off. Hourly employees are not eligible for paid time off unless required by law. Hourly employees on a Service Contract Act project are eligible for paid sick leave.

Note: Pay is not considered compensation until it is earned, vested and determinable. The amount and availability of any compensation remains in Kforce's sole discretion unless and until paid and may be modified in its discretion consistent with the law.

This job is not eligible for bonuses, incentives or commissions.

Kforce is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.

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