Big Data jobs in Waterloo, ON

The Centre for International Governance Innovation (CIGI) is an independent, non-partisan think tank whose peer-reviewed research, foresight and trusted analysis influence policy makers to innovate. With the engagement of a global network of experts and contributors, CIGI tackles the governance challenges and opportunities of data and transformative technologies, including AI, and their impact on the economy, security, democracy and, ultimately, societies. CIGI delivers independent world-leading research and analysis to influence policy on cutting-edge issues that intersect transformative technologies and governance.

POSITION SUMMARY

CIGI is seeking an AI Transformation Lead to help advance the organization’s AI journey by identifying, piloting, implementing, and scaling practical AI solutions that improve organizational effectiveness, knowledge sharing, and decision-making.

This role combines elements of AI strategy, business transformation, innovation, workflow design and change management. Working across departments, the AI Transformation Lead will identify opportunities where AI tools can create meaningful value, lead experimentation and proof-of-concept initiatives, support adoption of AI tools and workflows, and help build AI literacy across the organization.

Acting as a bridge between business needs and emerging technologies, the successful candidate will work closely with staff, leadership, and external partners to translate operational challenges into effective solutions. The role requires a balance of strategic thinking and hands-on execution, with a focus on responsible AI use, privacy, security, and organizational readiness.

This is an exciting opportunity for an individual who enjoys exploring emerging technologies, driving innovation, and helping people adopt new ways of working.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Contribute to the development and evolution of CIGI’s AI strategy, roadmap, and operating practices.
• Identify opportunities where AI can improve organizational effectiveness, productivity, knowledge management, and decision-making.
• Partner with teams across the organization to redesign workflows and processes leveraging AI in practical and scalable ways.
• Evaluate emerging AI technologies and recommend solutions aligned with organizational priorities.
• Design, prototype, and pilot AI-enabled solutions.
• Lead initiatives to assess the value and feasibility of emerging AI technologies.
• Support the testing, implementation, rollout, and continuous improvement of AI tools and solutions.
• Work with internal and external stakeholders to translate business requirements into AI-enabled solutions.
• Contribute to procurement and vendor evaluation activities for AI-related technologies and services.
• Support the responsible adoption of AI by considering privacy, security, ethical, and regulatory implications.
• Monitor developments in AI governance, data privacy, and emerging regulations and translate insights into practical recommendations.
• Help establish policies, standards, and governance practices that support safe and effective use of AI technologies.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED

• Bachelor’s degree in business, information systems, data science, analytics, computer science, mathematics, or a related discipline.
• 3–5 years of experience in AI implementation, business analysis, digital transformation, data analytics, technology enablement, or related roles.
• Demonstrated experience identifying, piloting, implementing, or scaling AI-enabled solutions.
• Strong understanding of AI technologies and their practical applications in organizational settings.
• Experience facilitating collaboration between technical and non-technical partners.
• Experience developing prototypes, proofs of concept, or AI-enabled workflows.
• Ability to independently explore, evaluate, and communicate emerging technologies and trends.
• Strong communication, presentation, facilitation, and relationship-building skills.
• Demonstrated problem-solving, critical thinking, and analytical capabilities.
• Knowledge of privacy, security, and risk considerations associated with AI.
• Familiarity with Canadian privacy legislation and emerging AI regulatory frameworks.
• Experience in a not-for-profit, academic, research, public policy, or knowledge-based organization is an asset.

BENEFITS AND COMPENSATION

• Salary range: $85,000 - $105,000
• Comprehensive group benefits plan, including health and dental coverage, short- and long-term disability, basic life insurance, and AD&D.
• Generous group RRSP program.
• Annual Flexible Spending Account.
• Continuing education and professional development support.
• Generous vacation policy, paid sick days, family care days, personal days, and a paid volunteer day.
• Work-from-anywhere weeks.
• On-site wellness offerings, including yoga classes and access to a registered massage therapist.
• On-site café with complimentary beverages every Tuesday.

This is a contract position based at our CIGI Campus in Waterloo, Ontario, where employees have a hybrid work environment which requires them to be in the office a minimum of 2 days per week. This job posting is for a new position.

Interested applicants are invited to submit a resume and cover letter to careers@cigionline.org by July 12, 2026. Incomplete applications may not be considered. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

CIGI is committed to providing an inclusive, equitable and accessible environment. Our goal is to attract and retain highly talented employees from diverse backgrounds, including Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities and members of visible minorities. Accommodation is available throughout the recruitment and hiring process upon request.

This salary range listed above reflects the starting compensation for new hires in a full-time capacity. Final compensation will be determined based on experience, education, and skills. In exceptional circumstances, an offer above the stated range may be considered.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $85,000.00-$105,000.00 per year

Application question(s):

• This role requires working on-site in Waterloo, ON two days per week. Are you able to reliably commute or relocate if necessary?

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Waterloo, ON