Director of AI and Analytics

Cayuse Holdings; Austin (TX); Hybrid; USD 124,000 - 165,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

On-site in Austin

Job summary

Cayuse Holdings is seeking a Director of AI and Analytics to lead the development and deployment of AI, data, and analytics initiatives. This on-site role in Austin follows a hybrid model requiring two days per week in the office and collaboration with business units to drive measurable outcomes.

You will manage multidisciplinary teams, define AI roadmaps, establish MLOps practices, and translate strategic priorities into data-driven solutions that impact the enterprise.

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading data science, ML, and analytics projects.
• Expertise with Databricks, Python, SQL, and related tools.
• Knowledge of the AI/ML lifecycle including MLOps, deployment and monitoring.
• Strong ability to translate business goals into data-driven solutions.

Responsibilities

• Oversee end-to-end development and deployment of AI/analytics solutions.
• Define technical standards for AI/ML delivery, ensuring scalability and resilience.
• Lead cross-functional teams in AI, ML, data science, and analytics.
• Prioritize AI initiatives based on business value and ROI.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Strategic thinking

Stakeholder management

Team building

Education

Master’s degree in Data Science/CS

AI/ML certifications

Tools

Databricks

Python

SQL

MLOps tooling

Job description

Overview

JobTitle: Director of AI and AnalyticsLocation: Auston, TX - Hybrid

Job Type: Independent ContractStartDate:ASAP

Pay Rate:$90-120/hr

Job Summary

The Director of AI & Analytics is a strategic and technical leader who will drive the development and implementation of AI, data, and analytics solutions to deliver measurable business impact. Acting as a \"player-coach,\" this role bridges business priorities with technical execution, ensuring the successful deployment of AI-driven, predictive analytics capabilities. The Director will oversee a multidisciplinary team, manage AI project portfolios, and inspire innovation while fostering a collaborative, high-performing culture. This position is based in Austin, Texas, and requires working on-site two days per week as part of a hybrid work model.

Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

AI and Analytics Leadership

• Oversee the end-to-end development and operationalization of AI and analytics solutions, transforming insights into actionable outcomes.


• Define and implement technical standards for AI/ML delivery, ensuring scalability and production resilience.


• Lead teams across artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, and business analytics, fostering a results-driven and innovative work culture.


• Prioritize AI initiatives based on business value and ROI, driving their alignment with organizational goals.


• Establish robust MLOps practices, ensuring sustained model performance and monitoring in production environments.

Strategic Leadership and Partnerships

• Act as a strategic advisor by translating business needs into actionable AI and data strategies.


• Collaborate with leadership and business units to identify high-impact opportunities and define innovative AI roadmaps.


• Build and manage effective partnerships across technical and business teams to achieve organizational priorities.


• Engage in long-term strategic planning, aligning AI objectives with enterprise goals and fostering cross-departmental collaboration.

Team Development and Engagement

• Lead and cultivate a high-performing, diverse team, promoting skill development, mentorship, and talent growth.


• Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.


• Act as a role model with transparent communication and a commitment to team empowerment.


• Support team members in achieving their professional goals while driving individual and organizational success.

Operational and Fiscal Management

• Develop and manage AI and analytics budgets, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities.


• Monitor and optimize resource allocation, emphasizing cost-effectiveness and operational efficiency.


• Oversee compliance with organizational policies, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices.

Qualifications

Required Skills and Experience

Leadership & Collaboration

• Proven ability to build, inspire, and lead high-performing, diverse teams.


• Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and stakeholder management skills.


• Proactive and results-oriented, with the ability to deliver high-impact outcomes.

Analytics and Technical Expertise

• Extensive experience in leading data science, machine learning, and analytics projects.


• Proficiency in modern analytics platforms, with expertise in Databricks, Python, SQL, and related data management and visualization tools.


• In-depth knowledge of the AI/ML lifecycle, including MLOps, model development, deployment, and monitoring.


• Strong skills in translating business objectives into actionable, data-driven solutions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Data Science, Computer Science, or related discipline.


• Certifications in relevant AI/ML platforms (e.g., Databricks, cloud architecture).


• Experience leading advanced analytics and AI programs in a corporate or technical environment.

Work Environment & Additional Information

• Hybrid work model: On-site work in Austin, Texas, at least two days per week, with additional days as required by business needs.


• Ability to adapt to occasional schedule adjustments, overtime, or high‑pressure situations.


• Frequent use of computers, virtual communications, and technology platforms.