TECHNOLOGY AND AI SOLUTIONS DIRECTOR, CENTER FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH
TECHNOLOGY AND AI SOLUTIONS DIRECTOR, CENTER FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH
At a Glance
• Salary range: $100,000 - $120,000
• Full Time, Onsite, Albany, NY
• Drive AI and advanced technology adoption for Capital Region manufacturers
• Work directly with manufacturing leaders to solve strategic and operational challenges
• Deliver assessments, roadmaps, workshops, and implementation guidance
• Join the national Manufacturing Extension Partnership Nationwide Network
• Make a measurable impact on business growth, productivity, and competitiveness
If you're passionate about technology, innovation, and helping manufacturers succeed across New York’s Capital Region and beyond, we encourage you to apply.
To be considered, applicants must submit a cover letter with their resume. Only candidates being considered will be contacted.
Submit a cover letter and a resume to hiring@capitalregionchamber.com.
Position Summary
The Center for Economic Growth seeks a Technology and AI Solutions Director to help small and medium-sized manufacturers (SMMs) evaluate, adopt, and implement advanced manufacturing technologies that improve productivity, competitiveness, resilience, and growth. This role serves as a technical advisor to manufacturers, conducting assessments, identifying opportunities for automation and digital transformation, and guiding companies through the adoption of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), industrial automation, advanced robotics, data analytics, Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), and other Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0 solutions.
The ideal candidate combines manufacturing operations knowledge with technical expertise and a passion for helping manufacturers leverage technology to solve business challenges.
Key Responsibilities
Assessments and Client Engagement
• Conduct technology readiness, automation, and digital transformation assessments for manufacturers.
• Evaluate manufacturing processes and identify opportunities for:
o Automation
o Robotics
o AI applications
o Machine monitoring
o Predictive maintenance
o Data analytics
o Digital workflow improvements
• Facilitate client discussions to understand operational challenges, workforce needs, and strategic goals.
• Develop technology roadmaps and implementation recommendations.
Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies
• Advise manufacturers on practical applications of AI in manufacturing environments.
• Help manufacturers identify and evaluate AI use cases, including:
o Quality inspection
o Production scheduling
o Predictive maintenance
o Demand forecasting
o Knowledge management
o Generative AI applications
• Stay current on advancements in AI, quantum technologies, smart manufacturing, digital twins, Industry 5.0, and advanced production systems.
• Assist clients in understanding benefits, risks, cybersecurity considerations, and implementation requirements.
Automation and Smart Manufacturing
• Assess automation opportunities and potential ROI.
• Support implementation planning for robotics, cobots, machine integration, sensors, and IIoT solutions.
• Collaborate with technology providers, system integrators, and manufacturing partners.
• Provide guidance on manufacturing execution systems (MES), ERP integration, and digital manufacturing technologies.
Project Management
• Manage multiple client projects simultaneously.
• Develop project scopes, work plans, timelines, and deliverables.
• Track outcomes and document client success stories.
• Ensure projects align with organizational objectives and funding requirements.
Education and Outreach
• Deliver workshops, presentations, and training programs on emerging technologies.
• Develop educational content related to AI, automation, smart manufacturing, and Industry 5.0.
• Build relationships with manufacturers, educational institutions, technology providers, and economic development organizations.
• Represent the organization at conferences, trade shows, and industry events.
Qualifications
Required
• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in manufacturing, operations improvement, automation, engineering, or technology implementation.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes and production systems.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Experience leading projects and working directly with clients.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
Preferred
• Experience with AI applications, machine learning, data analytics, or digital transformation initiatives.
• Knowledge of Industry 4.0 technologies, including:
o IIoT
o Robotics
o Automation systems
o MES systems
o Digital twins
o Cloud-based manufacturing technologies
• Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma experience.
• Familiarity with cybersecurity considerations for manufacturing environments.
• Experience conducting assessments or consulting engagements.
• Certification in Lean, Six Sigma, Project Management, AI, Data Analytics, or Smart Manufacturing.
Desired Attributes
The successful candidate will:
• Be curious about emerging technologies and their practical application.
• Translate technical concepts into business value for manufacturers.
• Build trusted relationships with manufacturing leaders.
• Balance technical expertise with strong consulting skills.
• Demonstrate a passion for advancing manufacturing competitiveness through innovation.
About Center for Economic Growth
The Center for Economic Growth (CEG) is dedicated to driving economic growth in the Capital Region. As a nonprofit regional economic development organization, we do this by attracting investment and talent; growing manufacturing and workforce capabilities, leveraging industry clusters, and developing the entrepreneurial ecosystem. We serve as a catalyst and work with partners and stakeholders to prepare the region to compete and move high-impact strategies and projects forward. An affiliate of the Capital Region Chamber, CEG is supported by investors in business, government, education, and the nonprofit sectors who
are committed to sustainable economic growth and shared prosperity. For more information, visit
www.ceg.org
The Capital Region Chamber/CEG is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe our organization thrives when every individual feels respected, valued, and empowered to contribute fully. As an advocate for regional businesses, the Chamber/CEG—through its leadership, actions, educational efforts, and community partnerships—is dedicated to fostering a workplace and regional economy where fairness, access, and opportunity are extended to all.
