AI Strategist and Innovation & Project Lead

Position:  AI Strategist and Innovation & Project Lead
Department:  Information Technology
Reports to:  VP of IT, Strategy and Innovation
Status:  Exempt

Goodwill Keystone Area is committed to creating a culture of belonging where all people feel respected and valued. This is because we celebrate the diversity of thought, the richness of the human experience and the desire to reflect the communities we serve.

Summary
The AI Strategist and Innovation & Project Lead position is responsible for establishing and guiding Goodwill Keystone Area's new artificial intelligence initiatives. This role is a strategic investment in our mission, focused on leveraging AI to enhance operational efficiency, amplify fundraising efforts, and create new opportunities for workforce development. The ideal candidate is a hands-on individual who can translate complex AI concepts into actionable strategies, manage the full lifecycle of AI projects, and champion a culture of data-driven innovation across the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and champion a long-term AI roadmap aligned with Goodwill's mission and business objectives. This includes identifying high-impact use cases in core areas such as workforce development, merchandise processing, e-commerce, warehousing, logistics, donation management, donor relations, and administrative support.    
• Operational Implementation: Act as the primary technical expert for the department. This includes hands-on work to identify, prototype, and implement AI-powered solutions to improve efficiency in core business areas that delivers clear measurable impact. 
• Data & Analytics: Collect, clean, and analyze datasets to derive actionable insights that support the organization's mission. This involves building statistical and machine learning models for purposes such as donor segmentation, predictive fundraising, and program evaluation.    
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Serve as the primary liaison between the AI function and all internal departments, including IT, retail operations, program managers, and development teams. The role requires the ability to explain complex data findings to non-technical audiences and to gain buy-in for new initiatives.    
• Governance & Ethics: Maintain and ensure compliance with the AI Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) to keep AI tool usage responsible and ethical. This includes establishing guidelines for data protection, monitoring for potential bias, and maintaining human oversight of all AI-generated outputs. 
• Training & Literacy: Foster an organization-wide understanding of AI's capabilities and limitations. This involves creating and delivering practical, hands-on training for employees on how to effectively use AI tools to enhance their daily tasks and problem-solving skills.    
• Promotes an environment of workplace safety. Ensures that duties are performed in a safe manner and safety requirements are adhered to.
• Communicates progress, problems, and concerns to the VP of IT, Strategy and Innovation.
   

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Data Analytics, or relevant field which enables the individual to meet the standards and expectations of the position. 
• Master’s degree in related field is preferred.
• Combination of related experience, including internships, co-ops, or other relevant work in the field required. 
• Proven professional experience in data analysis, statistical modeling, and hands-on work with AI & LLM tools. 
• Experience in a non-profit or mission-driven organization is a plus.   
• Experience in managing AI projects and collaborating with cross-functional departments.   

Skills/Abilities/Qualifications

• Strong proficiency in programming languages such as Python. Familiarity with AI and machine learning frameworks like TensorFlow or PyTorch is beneficial. 
• Experience with data visualization tools (e.g., PowerBI), statistical analysis, and database management.    
• Exceptional communication skills with the ability to translate complex technical concepts into plain language. Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and project management skills are essential for managing multiple initiatives simultaneously. Comfortable and confident with public speaking.  
• Ability to learn new systems and processes quickly. 
• Ability to effectively work as part of a team or independently. 
• Must have a modern reliable cell phone (Android or iOS). 
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle or reliable transportation.
• Ability to travel within Goodwill Keystone Area territory.

Goodwill Keystone Area is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to complying with all federal, state, and local laws that prohibit discrimination in employment. We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals without regard to disability or status as a protected veteran.