Data Analytics and AI Manager

Data Analytics and AI Manager – Full-Time, Hybrid (Houston, TX)Location: Houston, TX (West Sam Houston Parkway South, Energy Corridor area)Employment Type: Full-Time, HybridAbout Smartbridge:Smartbridge is a U.S.-based technology consulting firm dedicated to transforming businesses through innovative solutions and digital modernization. As a trusted partner to our clients, we deliver impactful results across key industries such as Energy, Life Sciences, and Food & Beverage.Position Summary:We are seeking a hands-on Data Analytics and AI Manager to lead the delivery of data and AI-driven projects across Smartbridge's client base. While this role will support clients across all of Smartbridge's industries, a significant portion of the work will center on our Energy clients, so Oil & Gas experience is strongly preferred. This role owns technical delivery from architecture through implementation, working directly in the platforms our clients run on — Microsoft Fabric, Azure Databricks, and the broader Azure data and AI ecosystem. The ideal candidate is comfortable staying hands-on with delivery rather than purely managing from a distance, and can translate business requirements into scalable, production-ready data and AI solutions across a range of industries.Key Responsibilities:Deliver data and analytics engagements across Smartbridge's full client portfolio — spanning Energy, Life Sciences, and Food & Beverage Lead end-to-end delivery of data and analytics engagements, including implementations built on Microsoft Fabric, Azure Databricks, and Azure AI/ML servicesArchitect high-performing, end-to-end cloud (and on-premise) data and analytics solutions, including AI/ML solutionsOversee the design, development, implementation, and maintenance of enterprise data architecture using Agile methodology and the software development lifecycleDrive business requirement gathering and review sessions to develop effective data integrations, applying both data expertise and industry knowledgePromote data sharing, consistency, and reusability across the organization; ensure data quality across all project phasesCollaborate with business units and data owners to implement and maintain enterprise-level business analytics and data warehousing solutionsIdentify and promote best practices for data modeling across business units and information domainsEnsure operational and analytical data warehouses support business reporting needs; establish standards for data governance and consistencyExecute technical feasibility assessments, solution estimation, and proposal development for data and analytics opportunitiesDevelop functional and technical designs for client solutions, staying hands-on through delivery rather than delegating execution entirelyLead and mentor small to mid-sized delivery teams on cloud data and analytics migrations and implementations in enterprise environmentsManage project scope, timeline, budget, risk, and client communications for assigned engagementsServe as the primary point of contact for client reporting and stakeholder communicationDocument and share technical best practices with clients and the Smartbridge community, contributing to our internal IP repositoryStrategize, plan, and support business development related to data and analytics opportunities, including client-facing presentationsMaintain and grow client relationships, bringing forward ideas that help clients improve business performanceQualifications:5+ years of experience delivering data, analytics and AI solutions.3-5+ years direct Oil and Gas experience required in Upstream or Midstream. Medical Device Manufacturing experience will also be considered.Strong industry business acumen with a solid understanding of the Upstream, Midstream, or Medical Device Manufacturing business value chain.Hands-on experience with Microsoft Fabric and Azure Databricks requiredStrong background in Azure data platform tools (Data Factory, Synapse, Azure SQL, or similar)Working knowledge of AI/ML solution design and implementation on AzureProven experience managing and staying technically hands-on in data project delivery (not purely oversight)Strong understanding of Agile delivery methods and the software development lifecycleExcellent communication, stakeholder management, and client-facing skillsBachelor's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Business, or a related fieldPMP certification requiredCandidates who do not meet these minimum requirements will not be considered.Additional Requirements:Hybrid role based in Houston, TX (Energy Corridor); regular onsite presence required for client and team collaborationReasonable commuting distance required; relocation assistance is not availableSummaryLocation: Houston, TX, United StatesType: Full TimeExperience: Experienced