Lead AI Data Scientist

Job Posting End Date

09-24-2025

Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.

Job Summary

Join Us in Shaping the Future of Energy with AI at AEP!

At American Electric Power, we're on a mission to transform the energy landscape through cutting-edge artificial intelligence and generative AI technologies. We are seeking a visionary Data Scientist to lead our AI strategy, drive innovation, and create value across our organization. If you are passionate about leveraging AI to solve complex challenges and are eager to make a significant impact, this is the opportunity for you!

As a Lead Data Scientist focused on AI and GenAI, you will spearhead the development and implementation of advanced AI strategies that align with AEP's mission to deliver reliable and sustainable energy. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify AI-driven opportunities, lead high-impact projects, and mentor a team of talented data scientists and solution engineers. Your work will directly influence the company's strategic direction and drive the next wave of innovation in the energy sector.

Job Description

What You'll Do:

• AI Strategy and Program Leadership: Lead the design and execution of AI strategies, ensuring alignment with company goals and maintaining roadmaps for tools. Serve as program owner, balancing strategic vision with technical execution.

• Stakeholder Engagement and Change Management: Engage with stakeholders across AEP to prioritize AI-driven opportunities, fostering strong collaborative relationships. Lead organizational change management, effectively communicating insights and progress.

• Risk, Ethics, and Compliance: Evaluate and manage risks associated with AI implementation, ensuring adherence to ethical standards and compliance with industry regulations.

• Technical Guidance and Team Collaboration: Provide technical direction for AI functions, collaborating with an internal team on hands-on work and overseeing external teams. Mentor intermediate and entry-level AI contributors, fostering a culture of continuous learning.

• Industry Insight and Application: Stay current with industry developments to inform strategic decisions and determine the application of new AI capabilities at AEP.

• Product Analysis and Optimization: Conduct product analysis for AI solutions, monitoring usage, cost, and model metrics to ensure optimal performance and value delivery.

What We're Looking For:

Data Scientist Principal (SG9):

Education: Bachelors degree in mathematics, operations research, statistics, economics, data science, computer science or related technical field is required.

Experience: 8 years of experience required.

An equivalent combination of education and related experience may be considered.

Data Scientist Staff (SG10):

Education: Bachelor's degree in mathematics, operations research, statistics, economics, data science, computer science or related technical field is require

Experience: 10 years of experience required.

An equivalent combination of education and related experience may be considered.

Nice-to-have:

• Strategic Leadership and Governance:

  • Proven experience in developing and implementing technology strategies, particularly in AI and data science, that align with enterprise goals.

  • Demonstrated ability to establish and lead governance frameworks for AI initiatives, including oversight of data ethics, compliance, and responsible AI practices.

  • Experience influencing organizational direction through strategic planning, executive engagement, and cross-functional leadership.

• Organizational Influence and Communication:

  • Skilled at crafting and delivering presentations to diverse audiences, including executive leadership, with a focus on strategic impact and business value.

  • Strong interpersonal and stakeholder management skills to build consensus, drive adoption, and foster collaboration across business units.

• Technical Oversight:

  • Familiarity with AI technologies and platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure), with the ability to guide teams and vendors.

  • Understanding of data governance, security, and privacy principles to ensure ethical and compliant use of data in AI applications.

• Problem Solving and Adaptability:

  • Demonstrated ability to apply analytical thinking to complex busines