Applied AI Architect

POSITION OVERVIEW The Arnold Companies continues to grow, improve operational execution, and drive innovation across its industries; therefore, it is seeking an experienced, driven Applied AI Architect to lead the practical application of artificial intelligence across the organization. This is a hands-on senior-level role responsible for working directly with executive leadership to identify opportunities, design solutions, and establish a disciplined framework for AI adoption company-wide. The right candidate brings both the strategic mind to translate executive vision into actionable AI roadmaps and the technical depth to build, deploy, and operate those systems. This is not a research or prototyping position. Daily work will move fluidly between executive-level strategy sessions and hands-on development, modeling, and associate training. This is an in-office position at the executive corporate offices located on the edge of Downtown and Uptown Dallas, in the beautiful Crescent Court office building. This role reports directly to the Director of IT and works closely with the C-Suite and executive leadership team. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES >AI Strategy & Architecture Partner with executive leadership to identify high-impact AI use cases across operations, finance, and commercial teams Convert executive ideas and business objectives into structured AI roadmaps and executable programs Lead the development of company-wide AI standards, governance, and best practices Evaluate and implement AI platforms and vendors — including LLMs, automation tools, and internal copilots Integrate AI solutions with existing systems and data infrastructure Stay current on emerging AI technologies and recommend practical applications for TAC >Development, Modeling & Execution Hands-on design, development, and deployment of AI-driven tools and workflows that improve efficiency and decision-making Machine learning model development, training, fine-tuning, and evaluation AI model lifecycle management from data sourcing through deployment and ongoing monitoring Self-regulate daily work against timelines and roadmaps set by executive leadership >Training & Associate Leadership Educate and guide internal teams across all departments and experience levels on effective and responsible use of AI Lead training programs, working sessions, and adoption initiatives for associates company-wide Serve as the organizational resource for AI tools — making complex capabilities accessible and actionable at every level QUALIFICATIONS >Required 7+ years of total experience spanning software engineering, data science, ML/AI development, or systems architecture — with meaningful time in the AI/ML space in recent years Proven track record of deploying AI solutions in live business environments, not just prototypes Deep working knowledge of large language models, AI automation frameworks, and modern ML tooling Experience integrating AI into real-world workflows and enterprise data infrastructure Ability to communicate clearly with both technical teams and executive leadership — no translation layer required Ability to work autonomously while delivering at a high level within a team setting Self-starter with a bias toward execution, measurement, and results Bachelor's degree or higher >Preferred Experience leading AI initiatives across multiple business lines or departments Background in data engineering, systems design, or enterprise architecture Familiarity with enterprise environments and change management Experience working directly with C-suite or senior leadership on strategic initiatives TAC - The Arnold Companies is a drug-free, equal opportunity employment company. You must be able to pass a drug screening test for employment. BENEFITS Medical / Vision / Dental Paid Time Off 401(k) with Match & Profit Sharing Career Growth Opportunities Team Atmosphere TAC - THE ARNOLD COMPANIES The Arnold Companies is a family-owned, privately held, fast-growing U.S. company with over 60 years of leading innovation across multiple industry categories — petroleum marketing, energy management and logistics, real estate, packaged goods, banking, and aviation. It is a place where leadership is accessible, decisions move fast, and the work you do is visible at every level of the organization.