AI Product Manager

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality is seeking a forward-thinking leader to spearhead their emerging technology initiatives as an AI Product Manager. This role involves leading the planning, development, and management of AI and data-driven solutions that support agency programs, ensuring ethical use and governance while serving as a liaison between business and technical teams.

Responsibilities:

• Manages the intake and review of proposed AI initiatives in alignment with agency goals. Evaluates business value, data readiness, risk, and ethical considerations to prioritize and approve AI use cases for development
• Leads the planning, development, and delivery of approved AI solutions. Coordinates with IT teams, vendors, and program staff to ensure successful, secure, and ethical implementation
• Ensures AI solutions meet privacy, security, legal, records, and ethical AI standards. Supports governance reviews, bias mitigation transparency, and risk assessments
• Serves as a liaison between technical teams and business programs. Supports communication, training, and user adoption activities, including responsible and ethical AI use
• Defines performance measures, monitors results, and leads improvements to ensure AI solutions meet business needs
• Monitors AI trends and helps plan future AI initiatives
• Other duties as assigned as related to the position (typically 5% - 10%)

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree plus 10 or more years of experience in AI, project coordination, project management and program management (or equivalent experience)
• Comprehensive knowledge of AI concepts, automation, and data analytics, including data quality standards, lifecycle management, and governance
• Proficient in both theoretical and practical project management, alongside product management and solution lifecycle practices
• Well-versed in privacy, cybersecurity, and regulatory compliance requirements, including state statutes, rules and regulations as they pertain to the Department and section
• Deep understanding of state government and departmental structures
• Proficient in researching and compiling complex information
• Proficiency of Microsoft Office and G-Suite/Google Workspace
• Expert at translating business needs into AI and data solution requirements, evaluating data readiness and risk, and identifying high-value AI use cases
• Skilled in articulating complex AI concepts in clear, non-technical language through strong verbal and written communication
• Proficient in gathering facts, performing statistical and abstract analysis, and synthesizing information for informed decision-making
• Extensive experience in customer service with the ability to interact effectively with a wide range of internal and external customers
• Highly effective at managing time and resources to meet project milestones and organizational objectives
• Ability to deliver innovative AI solutions while balancing ethics, privacy, and security; analyze complex data risks and coordinating cross-functional teams
• An organized, analytical professional who works independently with minimal supervision to deliver accurate results and solve problems effectively
• Proven ability to manage multiple tasks and shifting priorities under pressure, ensuring all deadlines are met with sound judgment
• Responds to inquiries with tact and diplomacy, providing timely status reports and essential information to stakeholders
• A dedicated team player who establishes positive and effective relationships with agency staff and the public
• Project Management Professional (PMP) preferred
• AI, machine learning, or data analytics certification is a plus