Job Description

This is an onsite role; only local candidates will be considered. The AI Apprentice will support the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) on the AI Apprenticeship Program. The program establishes a sustainable and governed pathway for developing entry-level AI talent in support of TxDOT's AI Strategic Plan. Working under supervision, the AI Apprentice will assist in evaluating AI tools and vendor solutions, contribute to AI/ML models and prototype applications, and help design and document data and AI pipelines. The role also provides direct support to the Planning & Administration team, including AI governance activities, documentation, reporting, and AI modernization initiatives across TxDOT divisions. The AI Apprentice works under guidance using established processes and standards and does not typically exercise independent production decision making. Responsibilities Assist in evaluating emerging AI trends, tools, technologies, and vendor solutions and capabilities against defined business use cases. Contribute to the development of AI/ML models, prototype applications, proofs of concept (POCs), and pilots for prioritized AI and automation use cases. Help design and document data and AI pipelines that integrate with existing systems. Conduct research, maintain documentation, analyze findings, and create reports, analyses, and presentations that communicate findings and outcomes clearly for AI initiatives. Collaborate with data, engineering, software development, and governance teams. Assist TPOs in identifying and assessing AI opportunities across supported divisions. Support AI governance activities, develop risk assessments, and maintain compliance documentation. Maintain and support AI applications developed for the divisions. Contribute to AI modernization initiatives in divisions such as AVN, MRD, RTI, RRD, and other business areas exploring automation opportunities. Serve as an Administrator for enterprise applications. Requirements Minimum Qualifications 1-3 years of academic, internship, or entry-level experience in AI, data science, software engineering, or a related field. Proficiency in Python. Familiarity with object-oriented programming concepts. Experience with version control. Exposure to data analysis, data migration, and basic model development. Understanding of basic software development and testing concepts. Coursework toward or completion of a degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related discipline. Demonstrated interest in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and applied analytics. Foundational knowledge of common concepts, tools, and practices. Ability to work under guidance using established processes and standards. Preferred Qualifications Familiarity with data pipelines (e.g., Airflow, Prefect, or cloud-native equivalents). Familiarity with model deployment concepts (e.g., REST APIs, serverless patterns). Familiarity with cloud platforms or AI services (AWS, Azure, GCP, OCI). Familiarity with containerization concepts (Docker). Familiarity with CI/CD fundamentals. Familiarity with monitoring or model versioning concepts. Additional Requirements Candidates must currently reside in the Austin, Texas area. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States. Work Location and Schedule Location: 6230 E Stassney Ln, Austin, TX 78744. Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM. Work Arrangement: Onsite 4–5 days per week.