Ulta Beauty · 19 hours ago
AI/ML Operations Manager
Bolingbrook, IL
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
$119K/yr - $160K/yr
5+ years expUlta Beauty is the largest North American beauty retailer, and they are seeking a highly skilled and experienced AI/ML Operations Manager to lead the operationalization and governance of their AI/ML landscape. This role is critical in ensuring the robust, ethical, and efficient deployment of AI/ML solutions across the enterprise, contributing significantly to Ulta Beauty's strategic initiative to embed AI into the core of their business.
BeautyConsumer GoodsCosmeticsRetail
Responsibilities
Establish, implement, and continuously refine AI/ML operational governance frameworks in alignment with Ulta Beauty’s existing standards and processes
Oversee the operational aspects of key AI/ML platforms, with a focus on Databricks and Google Cloud Platform (GCP)
Develop and manage robust processes for the deployment, monitoring, maintenance, and retraining of AI/ML models in production
Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key AI/ML technology vendors, ensuring effective partnership, optimal service delivery, and strategic alignment with Ulta Beauty's evolving needs and roadmap
Identify, assess, and mitigate risks associated with AI/ML systems, including issues related to data bias, fairness, accuracy, data privacy, and ethical considerations
Stay abreast of the latest advancements in AI/ML, including Large Language Models (LLMs), Small Language Models (SLMs), Model Context Protocol (MCP), and Agentic AI
Partner closely with data scientists, ML engineers, IT operations, legal, and business stakeholders to ensure seamless integration of AI/ML solutions and alignment with business objectives
Potentially lead and mentor a team of AI/ML operations specialists, fostering a culture of continuous learning, innovation, and operational excellence
Ensure comprehensive documentation of AI/ML operational procedures, architectures, and governance frameworks
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, or a related quantitative field
5+ years of experience in AI/ML operations, MLOps, or a closely related field, with at least 2 years in a leadership or managerial capacity
Proven experience in establishing and managing operational governance frameworks for AI/ML systems
Strong hands-on experience with cloud platforms, particularly Google Cloud Platform (GCP)
Demonstrated expertise with Databricks platform for data and AI workloads
Solid understanding of the AI/ML lifecycle, including model development, deployment, monitoring, and maintenance
Familiarity with Large Language Models (LLMs), Small Language Models (SLMs), Model Context Protocol (MCP), and Agentic AI concepts and their practical applications
Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, with the ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear business language
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic retail environment
Preferred
Experience with other cloud platforms (e.g., Microsoft Azure)
Knowledge of AI ethics, responsible AI principles, and relevant industry regulations
Experience with automation tools and scripting (e.g., Python, Ansible)
Certification in relevant cloud platforms (e.g., Google Cloud)
Benefits
Paid time off
Health
Dental
Vision
Life
Disability benefits
Company
Ulta Beauty
Ulta Beauty is a beauty retailer that offers a wide range of products including cosmetics, fragrances, skincare, and hair care.
10001+ employees
H1B Sponsorship
Ulta Beauty has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2020 (9)
Funding
Current Stage
Public CompanyTotal Funding
$266.3MKey Investors
Berkshire HathawayDimensional Fund Advisors
2024-08-14Post Ipo Equity· $266.3M
2016-10-11Post Ipo Equity
2007-10-25IPO
Leadership Team
Chris Lialios
Interim Chief Financial Officer
Kecia Steelman
President & Chief Operating Officer
Recent News
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2026-01-08
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2026-01-07
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2026-01-07
Company data provided by crunchbase