AI and Machine Learning Program Manager

The Ontario Council of University Libraries (OCUL) invites applications for the position of AI and Machine Learning Program Manager. This is an 18-24 month term contract.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced, knowledgeable, energetic and confident individual to fill a critical role managing OCUL’s Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AIML) program. This is an opportunity to learn and discover with OCUL as our organization explores these technologies and their implications for academic libraries.

Reporting to the OCUL Executive Director, the Program Manager will work with a Project Operations Team (consisting of the individual project leads, the Technical Manager and the Leadership Team) to manage and coordinate program activities, and will act as the project lead for the capacity building and virtual reference initiatives. The Program Manager will advise the Project Leadership Team on the progress of the AIML program.

The Program Manager will also work closely with OCUL and Scholars Portal staff and the project teams to ensure smooth progress and communications both among teams and to the OCUL community at large.

OCUL offers a competitive total compensation package and a collaborative work environment. The hiring salary range for this position is $82,046-$110,000. OCUL maintains office space in Robarts Library at the University of Toronto, however, there is a possibility of remote work from within Ontario for this position.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate activities and communications across the AIML program
• Provide project management expertise for AIML projects
• Oversee the development of a final report including recommendations for ongoing activities and services, including operational sustainability plans
• Provide dedicated staff support for advisory committees for the program, particularly the Training Committee
• Lead the work of the capacity building project team, including:

-Identifying or developing training for staff across OCUL, from general AI literacy through to the expertise required to design and implement AI applications
– Fostering AI literacy curriculum and learning strategies for students and faculty in concert with library initiatives
– Identifying and implementing collaborative training opportunities with relevant partners such as CARL and CUCCIO
– Enhancing expertise in acquiring and licensing AIML tools and services
– In consultation with LIS Deans and faculty, exploring the engagement of students in OCUL AIML initiatives as appropriate

• Co-lead the work of the virtual reference project team, including:

– Working our current chat software vendor to investigate and scope AIML service enhancements, in consultation with the Virtual Reference committee
– Understanding operator and user needs of the virtual reference service
– Developing an automated tool to anonymize chat transcripts

• Work with OCUL staff to ensure that OCUL members are provided with accurate information about the program on an ongoing basis
• Coordinate engagements with library directors and other staff to inform and provide feedback and engagement in the AIML initiatives
• Maintain a broad and evolving understanding of the AI machine learning landscape, particularly in the academic library and shared services/digital infrastructure context
• Develop and support communications representing the ongoing work on the AIML program; this will include but is not limited to written project updates, webinars, and verbal updates at OCUL governance group meetings

Qualifications

• Postsecondary education or equivalent experience
• Minimum of three to five years of relevant professional experience (e.g., working in libraries, postsecondary educational institutions, project management, or communications)
• Keen interest in artificial intelligence and machine learning technology
• Demonstrated experience with information technology project management
• Understanding of the principles of technical systems design, web applications, search, discovery, access, and database systems
• Knowledge of academic libraries and their users, and a well-developed understanding of library consortia in the context of shared technology services
• Demonstrated project management skills- ability to successfully develop and manage multiple projects from inception to completion, including issues that arise and potential risks (PMP certification is an asset)
• Highly skilled in working with a range of stakeholders from multiple institutions distributed across a broad geographic area
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills and presentation skills
• Willingness to travel in Ontario as required
• Demonstrated commitment to the values of inclusivity, diversity, equity and accessibility

Desired Experience

• Demonstrated ability to develop funding proposals
• Experience working with a virtual reference service, chat bots or other virtual agents
• Education or experience with UX (User Experience) design
• Bilingual – English and French

Additional Skills

• Goal-oriented individual capable of working with limited supervision, scheduling tasks and establishing set priorities
• Ability to work under pressure and to meet self imposed deadlines
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate with a wide variety of contacts
• Ability to develop an understanding of and sensitivity to university concerns

How to Apply

Those qualified are asked to submit a cover letter with resume, outlining your experience and suitability for the position as well as salary expectations, to: amy.greenberg@ocul.on.ca. Applications are accepted until 5:00 pm Eastern Time, January 3, 2025.

OCUL is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values the strength diversity brings to the workplace. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. OCUL is committed to providing an inclusive and barrier free recruitment process to applicants with accessibility needs in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). If you require an accommodation during this process, please inform us of your requirements.