AVP, Lead AI Engineer | Principal Engineer

Encore Technical Solutions Inc.; Toronto; On-site; CAD 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

Encore Technical Solutions Inc. in Toronto seeks a visionary Lead AI Engineer/Manager (AVP) to spearhead LLM initiatives. You will build and scale high-impact AI systems, mentor a top-tier engineering team, and shape multi-year AI strategy aligned with business goals.

This leadership role emphasizes technical excellence, stakeholder communication, and measurable outcomes across regulated and complex environments in a downtown Toronto setting.

Qualifications

• MS/PhD in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field.
• 10+ years in AI/ML, with 5+ years leading technical teams.
• Deep expertise in LLMs, NLP, and modern AI frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, DeepSpeed).

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and scaling of LLM systems.
• Build and mentor a high-performing AI engineering team.
• Define and execute a multi-year roadmap aligned with business goals.
• Translate complex AI concepts into actionable strategies for stakeholders.
• Ensure technical excellence, compliance, and measurable impact.

Skills

LLMs

NLP

AI frameworks

Team leadership

Education

MS/PhD in CS/Engineering

Tools

PyTorch

DeepSpeed

Job description

We’re hiring on behalf of an enterprise client based in downtown Toronto, seeking a visionary Lead, AI Engineer / Manager (AVP level) to spearhead the development and deployment of advanced Large Language Model (LLM) solutions. This is a high-impact leadership role focused on building a top-tier team, shaping long-term AI strategy, and delivering transformative business outcomes.

What You’ll Do:

• Lead the design, development, and scaling of LLM systems.
• Build and mentor a high-performing AI engineering team.
• Define and execute a multi-year roadmap aligned with business goals.
• Translate complex AI concepts into actionable strategies for stakeholders.
• Ensure technical excellence, compliance, and measurable impact.

What You Bring:

• MS/PhD in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field.
• 10+ years in AI/ML, with 5+ years leading technical teams.
• Deep expertise in LLMs, NLP, and modern AI frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, DeepSpeed).
• Proven ability to scale AI systems and teams in complex environments.
• Exceptional communication and decision-making skills.

Bonus Points For:

• Experience in regulated industries (finance, insurance, health).
• Familiarity with responsible AI practices and InfoSec/privacy standards.
• Startup or full-stack product development experience.