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…