Equinix

Senior Director, AI Engineering

Equinix$298K — $446K *
Enterprise Technology
11 - 15 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 12-15+ years in software, data, or ML engineering
  • 5+ years leading large, distributed engineering teams
  • Proven track record in delivering scalable ML/AI systems
  • Deep knowledge of machine learning systems and MLOps
  • Experience with ML frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch
  • Strong understanding of GenAI, LLMs, and retrieval-augmented systems
  • Familiarity with distributed systems and microservices architecture

Responsibilities

  • Build, lead, and mentor a global team of Machine Learning Engineers
  • Establish a high-performance engineering culture focused on quality and accountability
  • Own end-to-end delivery of ML platforms and pipelines
  • Operationalize AI models into scalable, reliable production systems
  • Set the vision for ML platform architecture and MLOps
  • Lead development of Generative AI capabilities and reusable AI services
  • Communicate AI strategy and outcomes to executive stakeholders

Benefits

  • Employee Assistance Program available to all employees
  • Health, life, and disability insurance options
  • Retirement plan contributions from both employee and Equinix
  • Accrued Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
  • Comprehensive healthcare coverage in Canada
  • Vacation and personal time for rest and recharge opportunities
Full Job Description
Job Summary

We are seeking a Senior Director of AI Engineering to lead and scale a high-performing Machine Learning Engineering (MLE) organization. This leader will be responsible for building production-grade AI/ML systems that power next-generation generative and predictive capabilities across the enterprise. The role combines deep technical leadership, organizational scale, and strong business alignment to translate AI innovation into measurable impact.

Reporting to Yang Song within Digital and Innovation Office, this role will work closely with the Data & Engineering team around technology and development. This is a hands-on technical leadership role responsible for building and scaling production-grade AI systems.

This role is critical to transforming AI from experimentation into a scalable, enterprise capability. You will define how AI is built, deployed, and leveraged across the organization-unlocking faster decisions, smarter automation, and sustained competitive advantage.

Responsibilities

Lead and Scale the MLE Organization
  • Build, lead, and mentor a global team of Machine Learning Engineers and technical leaders
  • Establish a high-performance engineering culture focused on quality, velocity, and accountability
  • Drive hiring, onboarding, and career development for MLE talent across regions


Deliver Production-Grade AI/ML Systems
  • Own end-to-end delivery of ML platforms, pipelines, and services (training, inference, monitoring)
  • Operationalize models into scalable, reliable, and secure production systems
  • Partner with Data Science and Product to move from experimentation to deployment


Define AI Engineering Strategy & Architecture
  • Set the vision for ML platform architecture, MLOps, and GenAI enablement
  • Standardize tools, frameworks, and best practices for model development and deployment
  • Ensure systems are built for scale, performance, and cost efficiency


Drive Generative AI and Advanced Analytics
  • Lead development of GenAI capabilities (LLMs, RAG, copilots, automation workflows)
  • Enable reusable AI services and APIs to accelerate use case delivery
  • Stay ahead of industry trends and translate them into enterprise-ready capabilities


Cross-Functional Leadership & Stakeholder Alignment
  • Partner with Product, Data, Engineering, and Business leaders to prioritize high-impact use cases
  • Communicate strategy, progress, and outcomes to executive stakeholders
  • Align AI initiatives with business goals, including revenue growth, efficiency, and customer experience


Governance, Risk, and Responsible AI
  • Establish best practices for model governance, monitoring, and lifecycle management
  • Ensure compliance with security, privacy, and ethical AI standards
  • Implement guardrails for safe and responsible use of AI technologies


Qualifications
  • 12-15+ years in software engineering, data engineering, or ML engineering
  • 5+ years leading large, distributed engineering teams (including managers of managers)
  • Proven track record of delivering ML/AI systems at scale in production environments
  • Deep knowledge of machine learning systems, MLOps, and cloud-native architectures
  • Experience with ML frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch) and data platforms
  • Strong understanding of GenAI/LLMs, prompt engineering, and retrieval-augmented systems
  • Familiarity with distributed systems, APIs, and microservices architecture
  • Strong ability to translate business strategy into technical execution
  • Experience driving large-scale transformation initiatives
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills


Preferred:
  • Experience building enterprise AI platforms or internal AI products
  • Background in both predictive ML and generative AI use cases
  • Experience in global delivery models (e.g., US + India engineering hubs)
  • Master's or PhD in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field
  • undefined


The targeted pay range for this position in the following location is / locations are:

United States - Redwood City Office GHQ : 298,000 - 446,000 USD / Annual

United States - Dallas Infomart Office DAI : 248,000 - 372,000 USD / Annual

Canada - Toronto Office TRO : 202,000 - 302,000 CAD / Annual

Our pay ranges reflect the minimum and maximum target for new hire pay for the full-time position determined by role, level, and location.The pay range shown is based on our compensation structure in place at the time of posting and may be updated periodically based on business needs. Individual pay is based on additional factors including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education and/or training.

The targeted pay range listed reflects the base pay only and does not include bonus, equity, or benefits. Employees are eligible for bonus, and equity may be offered depending on the position.

Equinix Benefits

As an employee, you become important to Equinix's success. We ensure all your benefits are in line with our core values: competitive, inclusive, sustainable, connected and efficient. We keep them competitive within the current marketplace to ensure we're providing you with the best package possible. So, wherever you are in your career and life, you'll be able to enhance your experience and bring your whole self to work.

Employee Assistance Program: An Employee Assistance program is available to all employees.
US Benefits: - Insurance: You may enroll in health, life, disability and voluntary plans that are designed for you and your eligible family members. - Retirement: You and Equinix may contribute to a retirement plan to help you plan for your financial future. - Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays: You will receive an accrued amount of PTO each pay period along with various paid holidays for you to rest and recharge. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific plan or program terms.Canada Core Benefits: - Insurance: You may enroll in healthcare coverage that is designed to complement the provincial healthcare system, along with life, disability and optional benefit plans that are designed for you and your eligible family members. - Retirement: You may also enroll in Equinix-sponsored retirement or savings plans: Defined Contribution Pension Plan (DCPP), Group Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) and Tax-Free Savings Plan (TSFA). - Vacation and Paid Holidays: Equinix offers both vacation and personal time, along with various paid holidays for you to rest and recharge. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits. Benefits are subject to specific plan or program terms, and to change at Equinix discretion.

This posting is a new position within our organization.

About Equinix

Equinix is an internet company that provides data center services for companies, businesses, and organizations. It offers a software application platform designed for digital businesses that help its users to connect to their customers, employees, and partners. The company was founded in 1998 and headquartered in Redwood City, California.

Equinix Careers

Join the vibrant team at Equinix, the world's digital infrastructure company, and be part of a dynamic network of professionals dedicated to redefining the future of the internet. At Equinix, we offer unparalleled job opportunities in an environment that celebrates innovation, leadership, and diversity. Work You’ll Do At Equinix, we empower you to drive your career path forward with a range of employment opportunities, from internships to full-time positions. Our team is at the forefront of digital transformation, providing the infrastructure that powers over 10,000 of the world's leading businesses. Transform your career with Equinix by engaging in work that matters. Our global platform spans across multiple continents, offering you the chance to collaborate with some of the brightest minds in technology and consulting. Lead with Innovation Equinix stands at the intersection of technology, networking, and digital innovation. As a member of our team, you will use your skills to help companies navigate their digital journeys and transform their strategies to thrive in the digital age. Join a team of over 10,000 dedicated professionals worldwide and work on groundbreaking projects that redefine how businesses connect globally. Our leadership in the industry is driven by a commitment to innovation and excellence. Explore Equinix’s Professional Growth and Benefits At Equinix, we believe in nurturing the growth of our employees through comprehensive professional and diversity training programs. Our benefits are designed to support the well-being and continuous growth of our team members, both professionally and personally. Future-proof your career with Equinix’s robust training programs, which are tailored to help you acquire new skills and advance within the company. From technical skills to leadership development, Equinix is committed to your professional growth. Be Part of Our Culture Equinix’s culture is centered on fostering an inclusive and collaborative environment where every team member’s contribution is valued. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Our team thrives on creativity and collaboration, and we believe that every team member brings a unique perspective that is crucial for our innovation and success. Join us and be part of a culture that encourages curiosity, creativity, and continuous learning. Stay Connected with Equinix Careers Discover the exciting career opportunities waiting for you at Equinix. Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We are always looking for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players. Keep up to date with the latest industry trends, career tips, and insights from Equinix professionals through our Careers Blog. Personalize your experience by subscribing to job alert emails, tailored to your preferences and career goals. Join Equinix and transform your future while shaping the digital landscape. Explore job opportunities, submit your resume, and prepare for an interview that could lead to the next exciting chapter in your career. At Equinix, your potential is limitless. SEARCH EQUIINIX JOBS READ CAREERS BLOG Job Alert Emails Tailor your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips directly related to your career interests. Discover the rewarding opportunities that await at Equinix.
Learn more about Equinix
Size
10,944 employees
Market Cap
$60.3 billion
Industry
Net Income
$369.7 million
Founded
1998
5 Year Trend
+12.9%
Revenue
$5.9 billion
NASDAQ

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