AI Systems Architect

AI Systems ArchitectThe AI Systems Architect oversees the administration and operational support of Mississippi State University's enterprise AI platforms, including Microsoft AI services, ensuring alignment with university governance standards. This role within ITS manages licensing, provisioning, governance, and cost management across Microsoft AI and other enterprise platforms, including AWS and local or cloud-based AI services. Positioned in ITS, the role keeps deployment and license administration close to existing systems and staff, while collaborating with the AI service team, CITE, and the Senior Advisor for AI and Data Governance. A strong understanding of the higher education environment is essential, supporting academic, research, and administrative needs in accordance with institutional governance. The position also provides supporting assistance for cloud service provider (CSP) environments as needed to complement enterprise platform operations and service continuity.Salary Grade: 17Please see Staff Compensation Structure or Skilled Crafts and Service Maintenance Compensation Schedule for salary ranges. For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.Essential Duties and Responsibilities:Enterprise AI Platform AdministrationCoordinate with ITS Information Security on AI-related security review, data classification, data protection, and access control.Coordinate with the Senior Advisor for AI and Data Governance on data-handling decisions for AI deployments that touch institutional data.Develop and maintain technical and operational documentation related to AI services and supported cloud platforms.Stay current on enterprise AI platform updates, new admin features, policy changes, security advisories, and integration opportunities. Translate those into recommendations for ITS and the AI service team.Contribute to MSU's external AI presence at technical venues (AWS, NVIDIA, Microsoft Ignite) and in-state technical convenings.Support AI platform adoption initiatives through coordination with campus stakeholders and ITS teams.Minimum Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, data science, information systems, information technology, or a related field. AI focused jobs are emerging and related fields of study will be considered broadly based on demonstrated experience with tools. 5 years of professional experience that includes building and deploying software solutions, AI applications, or supporting enterprise IT platforms and cloud infrastructure. Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.Preferred Qualifications:Hands-on experience with at least one major LLM API (OpenAI, Anthropic, Google, or Azure OpenAI).

Experience supporting Microsoft AI services or comparable enterprise AI platforms.

Experience with Copilot Studio, Power Platform governance configuration, Anthropic Console administration, or comparable enterprise AI platform admin work. Familiarity with cloud environments such as AWS or Azure. Prior experience in higher education, government, or another large, decentralized institution. Familiarity with AI governance, security, data classification, and responsible-use frameworks. Relevant technical certifications.Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:Proficiency in Python and one or more relevant supporting environments (e.g., JavaScript/TypeScript, SQL, REST APIs). Knowledge of enterprise AI platforms, service administration practices, and governance-aligned technology adoption. Understanding of cloud computing fundamentals, identity and access management, and cost management practices. Ability to interpret and apply institutional policies, standards, and vendor requirements to technology operations. Ability to support evaluation and adoption of emerging technologies in a structured and compliant manner. Strong analytical, documentation, and communication skills; ability to work directly with non-technical departmental customers.Working Conditions and Physical EffortNo unusual physical requirements. Most work is performed in an indoor office environment with frequent interaction and coordination across campus stakeholders.Instructions for Applying:All applicants must apply online at by attaching a cover letter and resume which includes the names and addresses of 3 professional references. We will accept applications only from persons with indefinite employment authorization in the U.S., and will not sponsor for nonimmigrant or immigrant status for this position.Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, .What do I do if I need an accommodation?In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: or you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at or Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.