# Ladders — Director, AI Engineering

- Generated: 2026-09-14 08:13:57 AM EDT
- Original/canonical posting: https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/4464796215/
- Provider: LinkedIn
- Posted: approximately 2026-09-14 07:13 AM EDT (from '1 hour ago')
- Elapsed since posting: represented by the provider's relative posting label and approximate Eastern timestamp when available
- Applicants: Be among the first 25 applicants
- Work model/location: Remote — United States; no visa sponsorship
- Compensation: $244,700-$279,200 annually
- Travel: Not disclosed
- Positioning track: Technical manager
- Fit outcome: PASS — 94%

## Direct-match strengths

AI-engineering strategy, production AI lifecycle ownership, foundational platforms, build-versus-buy decisions, LLM optimization, cloud-scale deployment, technical team building, architecture, product partnership, and financial-services governance.

## Hard or material gaps

The end employer is not identified by Ladders and remains a material caveat. The posting prefers seven years deploying scalable cloud AI and five years managing engineering teams; Keith's combined AWS/AI/platform record and long management tenure are strong, though the exact seven-year cloud-AI formulation is not separately documented.

## Evidence map

1. 8+ years AI/ML technologies (weight 3, evidence 3/3) — More than 25 years in AI/ML and applied intelligent systems.
2. 3+ years people leadership (weight 3, evidence 3/3) — More than 20 years leading technical teams.
3. AI software lifecycle from design through support (weight 3, evidence 3/3) — Direct strategy, architecture, coding, releases, operations, support, and governance.
4. Scalable AI solutions on cloud platforms (weight 3, evidence 3/3) — Former AWS specialist and builder/operator of multiple production cloud AI systems.
5. Advanced LLM optimization (weight 2, evidence 3/3) — Direct model routing, right-sizing, cost controls, evaluation, guardrails, RAG, and orchestration.
6. Foundational AI vision and roadmap (weight 3, evidence 3/3) — Built reusable platforms and multi-year enterprise AI/data roadmaps.
7. Build-versus-buy decisions (weight 2, evidence 3/3) — Direct vendor/model/service evaluation and architecture-selection ownership.
8. Develop high-performing AI talent (weight 2, evidence 3/3) — Recruited, mentored, and led engineers plus global specialist communities.

## Keyword diagnostic

Excellent direct coverage of AI engineering, production lifecycle, cloud platforms, technical vision, LLM systems, build-versus-buy judgment, talent development, and cross-functional delivery; no unsupported employer-domain claim added.

## Full normalized job description

For our client, we are seeking a Director, AI Engineering to join the team of a leader in the Finance & Insurance space.
This leader will guide the strategy and execution of AI engineering initiatives that advance modern financial services capabilities. The role will partner closely with cross-functional stakeholders to deliver scalable AI products, shape foundational platform direction, and make thoughtful decisions on how AI capabilities are built, sourced, and optimized. The position also carries responsibility for developing high-performing technical teams and fostering a culture of innovation, learning, and continuous improvement.
Location: Remote - US based candidates only, no visa sponsorship available
Compensation: $244,700 – $279,200 annually
Responsibilities
Partner with cross-functional teams to deliver transformative AI products.
Oversee the complete lifecycle of AI software components, from design to support.
Make informed build-vs-buy decisions regarding AI technologies.
Invent and apply advanced LLM optimization techniques for production systems.
Shape the technical vision and long-term roadmap for foundational AI systems.
Attract and develop top AI talent, fostering personal and professional growth.
Cultivate a culture of continuous learning and AI exploration.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or AI plus 8 years of experience in AI/ML technologies, or Master's degree plus 6 years of experience.
3 years of experience in people leadership.
5 years managing an engineering team preferred.
7 years deploying scalable AI solutions on cloud platforms preferred.
Strong foundation in engineering, mathematics, and deep technical knowledge in AI.
Benefits
Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
Financial benefits, including retirement plans and performance-based incentives.
Inclusive and supportive work environment promoting diversity and well-being.
Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
Flexible work options including remote work possibilities.
Our client is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet every qualification—your background could be exactly what this team needs.

## Artifact metadata

- Resume: https://bit.ly/4hr2wND
- Cover letter: https://bit.ly/4h9LeDy
- Validation: PASS — 2-page resume (921 words), 1-page cover letter (209 words); PDF geometry, bounds, annotations, links, and visual pages verified.
- Google Drive used: No