Artificial Intelligence (AI) Consultant

Location: Remote, PA

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Artificial Intelligence (AI) Consultant to design, develop, deploy, maintain, and optimize AI and machine learning solutions for the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PTC). The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with AI/ML model development, natural language processing (NLP), computer vision, Python programming, and Microsoft Azure data services.

The consultant will collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify business challenges, develop AI-driven solutions, analyze complex datasets, troubleshoot existing applications, and continuously improve model performance. Strong problem-solving, communication, documentation, and stakeholder collaboration skills are essential.

Key Responsibilities

Design, develop, test, and deploy AI models, machine learning algorithms, and related applications.

Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify business requirements and address AI-related challenges.

Analyze complex datasets and extract actionable insights to support business decisions.

Develop and implement solutions involving natural language processing (NLP) and computer vision.

Manage, maintain, and troubleshoot existing AI applications and machine learning models.

Identify and resolve bugs, performance issues, and reliability concerns in AI systems.

Continuously improve AI models through experimentation, iteration, testing, and optimization.

Work with Microsoft Azure services, Azure Synapse, and data pipelines to support AI and machine learning workflows.

Apply appropriate machine learning frameworks and libraries to develop scalable and reliable solutions.

Document technical approaches, methodologies, findings, and results.

Present project updates, findings, and recommendations to technical teams and business stakeholders.

Stay current with emerging AI, machine learning, and data science technologies and best practices.

Follow the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commissions IT standards, security policies, and applicable technology guidelines.

Required Skills and Qualifications

Bachelors or Masters degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Data Science, or a related field.

Proven professional experience in artificial intelligence, machine learning, or data science.

Hands-on experience designing, developing, and deploying AI/ML models.

Experience with natural language processing (NLP) and computer vision.

Proficiency in one or more programming languages, including Python, R, or Java.

Experience with machine learning frameworks and libraries such as:

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Scikit-learn

Familiarity with Microsoft Azure cloud services.

Experience with Azure Synapse Analytics and data workflows, including data pipelines.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Ability to troubleshoot technical issues and independently drive solutions.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Ability to collaborate effectively with technical teams and business stakeholders.

Strong documentation, presentation, and organizational skills.

Work Location and Travel Requirements

The position will be remote until further notice, with the candidate preferably based within the continental United States.

The selected consultant must be able to travel to the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commissions facilities in Middletown, Pennsylvania, when required.

Potential onsite locations include:

Central Administration Building, 700 South Eisenhower Boulevard, Middletown, PA.

Turnpike Industrial Park, 2850 Turnpike Industrial Drive, Middletown, PA.

In-person interviews, stakeholder meetings, and project work sessions may be conducted at these facilities.

The selected consultant must attend a full-day, onsite orientation at a designated Middletown office to collect assigned equipment. Equipment will not be shipped or collected by another individual.

Travel costs associated with the initial equipment pickup and orientation day will not be reimbursed.

Consultants located within a three-hour commuting distance must cover required travel costs within the agreed bill rate; no additional travel compensation will be provided.

Other eligible travel expenses, when approved and reimbursable, must comply with federal GSA guidelines and include appropriate receipts and documentation.

Travel expenses must be submitted within 60 days of the travel date.

Consultants must be able to reach the PA Turnpike work location within three hours in an emergency.

Onsite attendance may be required for planned implementations, system issues, or other project needs, with advance notice when possible.

Equipment and Remote Work Requirements

Required equipment and access to administrative services will be provided by the PA Turnpike Commission as applicable.

Equipment may include a laptop, tablet, laptop bag, monitors, keyboard, mouse, and other necessary accessories.

All issued equipment must be returned within two weeks of offboarding and must be in good working condition.

The vendor may be held responsible for unreturned equipment or damage beyond reasonable wear and tear.

The vendor is responsible for arranging an appropriate workspace for its project team.

Consultants must use cameras during meetings and maintain a professional appearance while attending virtual meetings.