AI/ML Operations Manager / Automation / Chicago / On-site

This is a full-time opportunity based in Bolingbrook, IL (hybrid) with Ulta Beauty, a leading omnichannel retailer redefining the future of beauty through technology. Ulta’s tech organization operates like a mature start-up—fast-moving, collaborative, and innovation-driven—while benefiting from enterprise-scale impact. This role sits at the intersection of AI/ML, cloud infrastructure, Databricks, and Google Cloud Platform, helping operationalize advanced machine learning across the business.

This role is all about owning and shaping how AI comes to life at scale. Ulta Beauty is embedding AI into the core of its business, and this position gives you the chance to build governance, MLOps practices, and operational frameworks that directly influence customer experience and enterprise decision-making. They’re looking for a hands‑on AI/ML operations leader who thrives in ambiguity, enjoys setting standards where none exist yet, and wants to work with cutting‑edge technologies like LLMs and Agentic AI. You’ll gain exposure across business and technical teams, work with whip‑smart colleagues, and have real influence over strategy—all while enjoying strong work‑life balance, continuous learning, and leadership growth in a highly visible role.

Required Skills & Experience

• 5+ years of experience in AI/ML Operations, MLOps, or related fields
• 2+ years in a leadership or managerial capacity
• Strong experience with Google Cloud Platform (GCP)
• Hands‑on expertise with Databricks for data and AI workloads
• Experience establishing AI/ML governance frameworks and operational standards
• Deep understanding of the end‑to‑end AI/ML lifecycle
• Strong communication skills with the ability to translate technical concepts to business stakeholders

Desired Skills & Experience

• Experience with Azure or additional cloud platforms
• Knowledge of Responsible AI, ethics, bias mitigation, and regulatory compliance
• Familiarity with LLMs, SLMs, MCP, and Agentic AI
• Automation and scripting experience (Python, Ansible, etc.)
• Cloud certifications (Google Cloud preferred)
• Retail or enterprise‑scale data environment experience

What You Will Be Doing

Tech Breakdown

• 45% AI/ML Operations & Governance
• 35% Cloud Platforms & MLOps Tooling (GCP, Databricks, CI/CD)
• 20% Emerging AI Technologies & Innovation

Daily Responsibilities

• 40% Oversee model deployment, monitoring, retraining, and lifecycle management
• 35% Define and enforce AI/ML governance, compliance, and risk mitigation practices
• 25% Partner with data science, engineering, vendors, and business stakeholders

The Offer

• Bonus eligible

You will receive the following benefits:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Vacation Time
• Stock Options

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the US on a full‑time basis now and in the future.