Location : Houston, TX
Job Type: Regular Full-time
Job Number:
Department: Direct Report
Division: Information Technology
Opening Date: 08/21/2026
Closing Date: 9/18/2026 11:59 PM Central

POSITION OVERVIEW
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

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this position. Management may, at its discretion, assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
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

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• 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

PREFERENCES

• 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

GENERAL INFORMATION
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.

BENEFITS

Harris County offers a competitive benefits program, including comprehensive group health and related benefits plan as well as a defined benefit retirement plan.
The following list of benefits is offered only to employees in regular (full-time) positions:

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Wellness
• Life Insurance
• Long-term disability
• Employee Assistance Program
• 10 days of vacation each year for the first five (5) years of service. Accrual rates increase based on years of service.
• 10 county holidays plus one (1) floating holiday
• Paid Parental Leave
• Professional development opportunities
• Dependent Care Reimbursement Plan
• Healthcare Reimbursement Account
• 457 Deferred Compensation Plan

The following benefits are also available to regular (full-time) employment and may be available to part-time employees:

• Retirement pension (TCDRS)
  • Flexible schedules (varies by department)
    • Transportation Assistance (Metro RideSponsor Program)

In accordance with the Harris County Personnel Regulations, Group Health and related benefits are subject to amendment or discontinuance at any time. Commissioners Court reserves the right to make benefit modifications on the County's behalf as needed.
For plan details, visit the Harris County benefits website:
01

What is the highest level of education you have completed in a specific field related to the area of assignment as it pertains to this position? Please select from below.

• High School Diploma or GED equivalency
• Associate's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, or a related field
• Associate's degree in another field of study
• Bachelor's Degree or higher in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, or a related field
• Bachelor's Degree in another field of study
• Not Applicable

02

Which of the following best describes your years of progressively responsible experience in technology roles with direct exposure to emerging technologies or innovation initiatives, including prototyping, solution design, or applied research and development?

• Six (6) years, but less than seven (7) years
• Seven (7) years, but less than eight (8) years
• Eight (8) years, but less than nine (9) years
• Nine (9) years, but less than ten (10) years
• Ten (10) or more years
• Not Applicable

03

Do any of the following pertain to you as it relates to this position?Select all that apply.

• 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
• Not Applicable