Innovation Manager
Listed on 2026-09-06
-
IT/Tech
AI Engineer (Applied/Software), Data Science Manager
This listing closes on 9/18/2026 at 11:59 PM Central Time (US & Canada).
Employer
Harris County Sheriff's Office
Location
Houston, TX
Job Type
Regular Full-time
Job Number
-E
Department
Direct Report
Division
Information Technology
Opening Date
08/21/2026
Closing Date
9/18/2026 at 11:59 PM Central Time (US & Canada)
- Description
- Benefits
- Questions
The Innovation Manager leads the Sheriff's Office innovation program by identifying, evaluating, piloting, and operationalizing emerging technologies including artificial intelligence, robotics, unmanned systems, automation, real-time intelligence systems, and advanced analytics to improve public safety and operational effectiveness.
Key Responsibilities
Innovation Exploration & Research
- Continuously scans the landscape of emerging technologies, including AI/ML, robotics, unmanned aerial systems, computer vision, autonomous systems, and the Internet of Things
- Identifies vendors, startups, academic research, and industry trends applicable to public safety
- Serves as the subject matter resource on emerging capabilities and future-state technologies
Rapid Prototyping & Experimentation
- Translates conceptual ideas into proofs-of-concept, prototypes, or pilot programs
- Designs and executes structured experiments to validate technical feasibility and operational value
- Leverages low-code/no-code tools, APIs, and development platforms to accelerate prototyping
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Works closely with the Technology Management team to integrate innovations
- Partners with vendors and external agencies to co-develop and test solutions
- Innovation Pipeline Management
- Maintains a structured pipeline of ideas, experiments, and initiatives
- Tracks progress from concept to prototype to pilot to production recommendation
- Presents regular updates and demonstrations to executive leadership
- Team Leadership
- Manages AI Solutions Engineers and other technical specialists assigned to the innovation program
- Builds and maintains an internal "innovation lab" capability
- Mentors technical staff and fosters a culture of experimentation
- Coordinates with infrastructure, cybersecurity, and data platform teams
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, or a related field
- Six (6) or more years in technology roles with direct exposure to emerging technologies or innovation initiatives, including prototyping, solution design, or applied research and development
- An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered
- Working knowledge of AI/ML, automation, APIs, or systems integration
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Ability to translate technical concepts for executive and non-technical stakeholders
- Ability to manage, mentor, and develop technical staff
- Experience in public safety, government, or another regulated environment
- Familiarity with drone/UAV programs, robotics, or computer vision systems
- Experience with platforms such as Python, cloud services (Azure/AWS), or AI development tools
- Exposure to human-centered design or design-thinking methodologies
- Experience working with startups or innovation ecosystems
Work Environment & Physical Demands
• This position operates primarily in a professional office setting.
• Standard use of computers, phones, printers, and related technical equipment.
• The ability to lift and carry up to 10 pounds is occasionally necessary.
Position Type and Typical Hours of Work
Position Type:
Professional Staff, Full-time, Exempt
Work Schedule:
Typically Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Hours may vary based on the department's business needs.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age,…(If this job is in fact in your jurisdiction, then you may be using a Proxy or VPN to access this site, and to progress further, you should change your connectivity to another mobile device or PC).