AI Specialist

Extraco Banks is seeking an experienced, strategic, and forward‑thinking AI Specialist (Enterprise AI Adoption & Strategy) to lead the responsible adoption and optimization of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across the organization. This on‑site role, based daily at our Waco, Texas location, partners closely with business leaders, technology teams, and risk partners to identify high‑value AI opportunities, guide implementation, and ensure alignment with business objectives, regulatory expectations, and ethical standards.

The ideal candidate is analytically strong, technologically fluent, and comfortable serving as both a subject matter expert and a change leader in a regulated financial environment.

What You'll Do

Enterprise AI Strategy & Governance

• Develop and execute the bank's enterprise AI adoption strategy aligned with business goals and risk appetite.
• Identify, evaluate, and prioritize AI use cases across lines of business, including fraud detection, credit risk, operations, and customer experience.
• Define success metrics, KPIs, and maturity indicators to measure AI performance and value realization.
• Serve as the internal subject matter expert on AI capabilities, trends, limitations, and financial services applications.
• Ensure AI initiatives comply with regulatory, ethical, data governance, and model risk management standards.

Change Leadership & Enablement

• Lead change management efforts related to AI adoption, including stakeholder engagement, communication, and education.
• Translate complex AI concepts into clear, actionable guidance for executive and non‑technical audiences.
• Partner with HR and Learning & Development to build enterprise AI awareness and skills.
• Promote a culture of responsible AI use, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Collaboration & Vendor Management

• Serve as a bridge between business teams, Data Intelligence, Information Systems, Audit, Compliance, and third‑party vendors.
• Guide intake, evaluation, and implementation of AI tools, platforms, and vendor solutions.
• Monitor emerging AI technologies, regulatory guidance, and industry best practices; recommend strategic adjustments as needed.

Process Improvement Support

• Serve as backup support for Process Improvement Specialists when necessary, including:
• Workflow creation and management
• Leading process improvement initiatives
• Implementing workflow enhancements
• Creating and maintaining SQL databases
• Providing technical and analytical support for "Lean 2 Green" process improvement submissions

What We're Looking For

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Information Systems, Business, Finance, or a related field required
• Master's degree preferred
• 5+ years of experience in technology, data, analytics, automation, or related roles
• Demonstrated experience leading or managing AI, machine learning, analytics, or automation initiatives
• Experience working within financial institutions, fintechs, or other highly regulated industries
• Strong understanding of AI concepts, limitations, and risks in a regulated environment
• Familiarity with model risk management, data governance, and regulatory expectations related to AI
• Experience working with vendors and third‑party AI solutions
• Certifications or formal training in AI, data science, cloud platforms, or change management preferred

Required Skills & Abilities

• Strong AI and data literacy with a practical, business‑focused mindset
• Proven ability to influence across teams and lead organizational change
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem‑solving skills
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
• High level of governance, risk, and compliance awareness
• Self‑directed learner capable of mastering new technologies quickly
• Effective collaborator with accountability and initiative
• Commitment to long‑term career development and organizational success

Why Extraco?

Extraco Banks is committed to innovation, responsible growth, and employee development. You'll join a collaborative organization that values thoughtful technology adoption, sound risk management, and meaningful contributions to enterprise success. We empower our employees with growth opportunities, modern tools, and a culture grounded in integrity and continuous improvement.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• On‑site, office‑based role at the Waco, Texas location
• Extended periods of sitting or standing
• Frequent use of standard office equipment (computer, phone, copier)
• Local and regional travel for meetings, training, and business functions
• Visual acuity required for data review, analytics, and documentation
• Occasional lifting of 10-15 pounds (equipment or materials)
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions

Additional Employment Requirement

Must open and maintain a checking or savings account with Extraco Banks as a condition of employment.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Extraco Banks is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. We are committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and equitable workplace.