Technical Program Manager

Position Summary
The Technical Program Manager will work with the AI Engineering team at the Vector Institute and will be responsible for managing the development and implementation of Applied AI and Research Engineering programs with a focus on specific thematic areas, particularly Trust and Safety. This individual will work closely with a team of machine learning specialists and Applied ML Scientists to drive project execution, ensure quality deliverables, and meet established timelines and objectives, while maintaining ethical AI standards and safety protocols.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and execute a strategic vision for programs within assigned thematic focus areas, particularly in Trust and Safety initiatives, including setting timelines and allocating resources;
• Lead the development and implementation of frameworks for responsible AI, safety testing protocols, and bias mitigation strategies;
• Manage the work of AI Engineering team members and coordinate with key stakeholders, including Vector researchers, staff, and external partners;
• Track project progress using appropriate metrics and provide comprehensive updates to stakeholders, including senior management and external partners;
• Identify potential technical, ethical, or operational challenges and create and implement effective solutions;
• Collaborate with other teams and departments within the Vector Institute to align projects with the broader organizational strategy and ethical AI standards;
• Build and nurture relationships with external partners focused on Trust and Safety, including academic institutions, government agencies, industry partners, and ethics boards;
• Stay current with evolving regulations, standards, and best practices in AI ethics, safety, and responsible development;
• Contribute to identifying new opportunities for applied AI research and development to support the growth of the AI Engineering team at the Vector Institute; and,
• Mentor associate-level program managers, providing guidance on project management best practices, with an emphasis on responsible AI implementation.

KEY SUCCESS MEASURES

• Successful delivery of AI Engineering programs within scope, timeline, and budget;
• Development and implementation of effective Trust and Safety frameworks and protocols;
• Reduction in ethical risks and safety incidents in AI solutions;
• Effective stakeholder management and communication across thematic areas;
• Quality of program documentation, risk assessments, and reporting;
• Team collaboration and efficiency in addressing Trust and Safety challenges;
• Proactive identification and mitigation of potential ethical issues;
• Contribution to the strategic growth and reputation of AI Engineering initiatives at the Vector Institute; and,
• Advancement of industry standards and best practices in responsible AI.

PROFILE OF THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Ethics, or a related field;
• 5+ years of experience in technical project management, preferably in the field of AI or machine learning;
• Experience in research and development related to AI Safety;
• Strong understanding of AI technologies and their applications, with particular emphasis on ethical considerations and safety challenges;
• Knowledge of AI ethics frameworks, safety testing methodologies, and bias mitigation techniques;
• Experience with or strong interest in responsible AI development, governance, and implementation;
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills;
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple concurrent projects across different thematic areas;
• Proven experience working with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders;
• Ability to identify opportunities for innovation and process improvements while maintaining ethical standards;
• Experience working with AI technologies and understanding of the Applied AI research and development landscape;
• Proficiency with project management and productivity tools such as ClickUp, Asana, Jira, etc.; and,
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills and ability to adapt to changing priorities and regulations in the AI space.

At the Vector Institute, we are committed to driving excellence and leadership in Canada's knowledge, creation, and use of AI to foster economic growth and improve the lives of Canadians. We strive for greater inclusion in the programs and culture that we build by welcoming and encouraging applications from all qualified candidates. This includes, but is not limited to, applicants who are Indigenous, 2SLGBTQIA+, racialized persons/visible minorities, women, and people with disabilities.

If you require an accommodation at any point throughout the recruitment and selection process, please contact and we will happily work with you to meet your needs.