AI Engineering Lead

University of California, Riverside; Riverside (CA); On-site; USD 126,700 - 248,700; Full time

Job summary

The University of California, Riverside is seeking an AI Engineering Lead to spearhead AI and data science initiatives within the Office of Data & Analytics. This role requires a proactive leader who will collaborate with teams to implement high-impact AI projects while mentoring AI professionals.

Operating mostly in a remote environment, the successful candidate will also hold discussions with teams to integrate AI capabilities into varying applications. A salary range of $126,700 to $248,700 is offered depending on qualifications.

Qualifications

• Must have current work authorization for UCR staff positions.
• UCR cannot sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment visas.
• Compliance with university policies and government directives required.

Responsibilities

• Lead AI and data science initiatives within the Office of Data & Analytics.
• Mentor a team of AI professionals and enable AI integration in projects.
• Drive adoption of AI across UCR for various applications.

Skills

Leadership in AI initiatives

Data science expertise

Mentoring skills

Technical strategy development

AI integration into applications

Job description

Job ID: 37325788
Category: Information Technology
Organization: Info Technology Solutions
Department: Reporting and Analytics Dept
Location: Remote/Hybrid
Salary: $126,700 - $248,700
Date Posted: May 19, 2026
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled
Schedule: 8AM - 5PM
Full/Part Time: Full-time (100%)
Level of Supervision: General Direction
Personnel Program Code: Management & Sr Professional
Other Information: Qualifies for Employee Referral Bonus: No, UC Internal Job: No

Overview

The Artificial Intelligence (AI) Engineering Lead will lead Information Technology Solutions's (ITS) artificial intelligence and data science initiatives within the Office of Data & Analytics. The incumbent is a proactive leader who can act as a technical strategist and a hands‑on expert. This position will partner with leaders across ITS and the UCR campus to bring high‑impact AI and Data Science projects to life. As a key technical leader, the incumbent will be responsible for mentoring a team of AI professionals and serving as an AI technical enabler for ITS development teams. The position will drive the adoption of AI across UCR by empowering teams to integrate AI capabilities into their work, whether it is embedded within custom applications, reporting, or intelligent agents. This role will involve having a constant pulse on solutioning to embed AI within existing products, processes, and initiatives. This position is classified as predominantly remote with occasional visits to campus as needed. Working hours will be based on Pacific Standard Time (PST).

Key Responsibilities

• Lead AI and data science initiatives within the Office of Data & Analytics.
• Partner with leaders across ITS and the UCR campus to deliver high‑impact AI and Data Science projects.
• Mentor a team of AI professionals and serve as an AI technical enabler for ITS development teams.
• Drive adoption of AI across UCR by empowering teams to integrate AI capabilities into custom applications, reporting, and intelligent agents.
• Maintain a constant pulse on solutioning to embed AI within existing products, processes, and initiatives.
• Operate predominantly from remote locations, with occasional campus visits as needed.

Requirements

• Current work authorization when accepting a UCR staff position.
• UCR is currently unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa for staff.
• Compliance with all applicable University policies, collective bargaining agreements, and applicable federal, state, or local government directives.
• Pay scale up to $200,000 annually, based on education, licensure, certifications, experience, and organizational needs.