Senior Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning Specialist

Moffatt & Nichol specializes in large complex waterfront infrastructure projects and is recognized as one of the worldwide leaders in this field. We are seeking a Senior Artificial Intelligence (AI) / Machine Learning (ML) Specialist to work from our Costa Mesa, CA (preferred) office or may work from your home in Arizona, California, Texas, or Washington but will travel to Moffatt & Nichol offices as needed. As the successful new hire, you will lead the development and implementation of cutting-edge artificial intelligence and machine learning technology solutions to enhance the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of marine ports and inland facilities. This role offers an exciting opportunity to shape the future of AI/ML applications in our organization, fostering a culture of technological excellence and innovation. You will guide a multidisciplinary team to innovate and apply AI/ML techniques across our organization’s various disciplines, including but not limited to planning, optimization, civil, structural, inspection, electrical, mechanical, coastal modeling, and simulation. You will drive the adoption of smart port technologies, ensuring our projects and services are at the forefront of the industry. 

About Moffatt & Nichol:  

Moffatt & Nichol is a leading U.S.-based global infrastructure advisor specializing in the planning and design of facilities that shape and serve our coastlines, harbors and rivers, as well as an innovator in the transportation complexities associated with the movement of freight. For the 2nd year in a row, Moffatt & Nichol is ranked Engineering News-Record #1 for Marine & Port Facilities and Top 20 in Transportation. We were also named Southeast Design Firm of the Year 2023. 

Moffatt & Nichol's professional staff includes engineers, planners, scientists and architects who serve our global client base from offices in Europe, North America, Latin America, and the Pacific Rim. The firm provides clients worldwide with customized service and a level of excellence that have become the firm’s hallmark in several primary practice areas – ports and harbors; coastal, environmental and water resources; urban waterfronts and marinas; transportation, bridges and rail; inspection and rehabilitation; and energy.  

Duties and responsibilities:

Leadership and Strategy

• Lead and inspire a talented team of data scientists, engineers, and analysts, setting clear objectives, managing resources, and ensuring timely delivery of projects
• Develop and implement a comprehensive AI and ML strategy aligned with the company's goals and the latest industry trends
• Engage with stakeholders to understand and refine project requirements
• Establish best practices for AI and ML development and application within the company, complying with relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards

Project Management

• Monitor project and development progress, ensuring adherence to budget and schedule
• Continuously refine prototypes and models, addressing and resolving performance issues to ensure optimal functionality and efficiency
• Regularly review, monitor, and optimize AI/ML processes and workflows for efficiency and effectiveness
• Manage risks and solve problems proactively
• Maintain comprehensive and up-to-date project documentation

Technical Development

• Provide expert oversight on the technical aspects of AI/ML projects, ensuring the application of advanced methodologies and cutting-edge technologies
• Stay up to date with the latest advancements in AI/ML, integrating innovative practices into project workflows
• Apply sophisticated machine learning techniques to enhance the efficiency and quality of data processing and product offerings, especially for smart port applications including automation, predicative maintenance, optimization models, simulation and emulation tools
• Develop and refine software and project solutions using programming languages such as Python and R, tailoring these solutions to support AI/ML project objectives
• Analyze patterns and trends within datasets to uncover valuable insights, providing strategic recommendations for business model improvements and enhancements

 Collaboration and Communication

• Foster a collaborative environment, ensuring effective communication and stakeholder engagement
• Maintain clear and consistent communication, ensuring all parties are aligned with project goals

Other duties: 

Please note this job posting is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science or a related field. A Master’s degree or Ph.D. is highly preferred
• A minimum of 5 years of experience dedicated to AI and ML projects, with at least 2 of these years in a leadership or managerial role, plus extra years focusing on related application and research areas
• Proven track record of successful AI/ML application development
• Hands-on experience in merging AI/ML technology with modern software applications such as SaaS and web applications
• Proven client-facing and internal communication skills
• Experience in the maritime industry or related fields is a plus
• Up-to-date knowledge of the latest advancements in AI/ML technologies
• Deep understanding of AI/ML development tools, languages (such as Python, R, Java), and frameworks and libraries (like TensorFlow, PyTorch)
• Capable of articulating complex technical concepts to diverse audiences
• Proficiency in data modeling, algorithm development, and machine learning techniques
• Deep knowledge of mathematics skills, probability, statistics, and algorithms 
• Exceptional organizational skills, including meticulous attention to detail and the ability to lead and motivate a team
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple projects simultaneously
• All new hires will be required to successfully complete and pass a pre-employment (post offer) background check in compliance with NIST 800-171
• Moffatt & Nichol uses E-Verify and employment is contingent upon the legal ability to obtain employment in the U.S. and to present the required documentation at hire

Base salary range:

$109,000 to $133,000 based on years of experience, level of education obtained, professional registration, and meeting required qualification in job description.

Base salary range only applicable for candidates who will be hired and working in the California or Washington markets.   

Working conditions:

The Senior Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning Specialist will be required to work 40 hours a week and must be available to work with international project teams as needed. International meetings may take place outside of normal working hours. Occasional travel will be required.

Physical requirements:                                                                                               

Remain sedentary for prolonged period of time utilizing computer and in front of screens. Occasional travel will be required.

Moffatt & Nichol’s EEO Statement:

As a global business, Moffatt & Nichol relies on diversity of culture and thought to deliver on our goal of Creative People, Practical Solutions® serving our client needs, and ensures nondiscrimination in all activities in accordance with Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. We continuously seek talented, qualified employees in our world-wide operations regardless of race, color, sex/gender, including gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, national origin, religion, disability, age, marital status, citizen status, protected veteran status, or any other protected classification under country or local law. Moffatt & Nichol is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity/ Affirmative Action Employer/ Federal Contractor desiring priority referrals of all protected veterans for job openings. 

EEO is the LAW

If you need more information or require special assistance for persons with disabilities or limited English proficiency, please contact Human Resources at (562) 590-6500 or TTY/TDD users please call 711.