Director of AI/ML Engineering - Remote (Chicago Preferred)

Join Optum as a Director of AI/ML Engineering. Optum is a global organization that delivers care, aided by technology to help millions of people live healthier lives.

The work you do with our team will directly improve health outcomes by connecting people with the care, pharmacy benefits, data and resources they need to feel their best. Here, you will find a culture guided by inclusion, talented peers, comprehensive benefits and career development opportunities.

Join a pioneering team deploying cutting-edge AI capabilities across pharmacy benefit management and beyond, directly impacting and improving the lives of up to 65 million members and patients.

Primary Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and grow a team of engineers and data scientists specializing in generative AI, machine learning, and cloud-based solutions
• Develop and execute a strategic roadmap for GenAI-driven initiatives aligned with PBM business goals
• Oversee the architecture, development, and integration of GenAI models into PBM workflows such as prior authorization, formulary management, medication adherence, and claims processing
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Product, Clinical, Data, and Compliance teams to identify high-impact AI use cases
• Ensure compliance with HIPAA, HITECH, and other relevant healthcare regulations in all engineering practices and solutions
• Establish best practices for model governance, data privacy, security, and responsible AI use
• Evaluate and select appropriate GenAI technologies, frameworks, and vendors
• Stay abreast of developments in generative AI, healthcare technology, and regulatory changes
• Monitor performance and ROI of GenAI solutions, driving continuous improvement
• Design, develop, and deploy AI-powered solutions using no-code, low-code, and advanced platforms, translating business needs into scalable applications that enhance products, workflows and decision-making

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, or related field
• 10+ years of engineering experience, including 3+ years leading AI/ML teams (preferably with GenAI project experience)
• 5+ years of experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP), MLOps, and modern engineering practices
• 5+ years of experience with Python, TensorFlow/PyTorch, and relevant GenAI libraries
• 2+ years of experience and success deploying generative AI models (e.g., LLMs, foundation models) in production environments for over at least three projects
• 1+ years of experience with regulatory requirements and data security in healthcare (HIPAA/HITECH)

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in the healthcare or PBM industry along with a deep understanding of PBM workflows
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills

Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to local labor markets, education, work experience, certifications, etc. In addition to your salary, we offer benefits such as, a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, equity stock purchase and 401k contribution.

UnitedHealth Group is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer under applicable law and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations.