Senior AI Solutions Architect — Manufacturing Automation & AI Strategy Consultation

We are looking for an experienced Senior AI Solutions Architect or AI/ML Engineer with expertise in manufacturing automation, intelligent workflows, and production optimization. We are evaluating an AI strategy for a software ecosystem that connects apparel product design, manufacturing preparation, and automated factory operations. The initial engagement will focus on reviewing the proposed AI strategy, evaluating technical feasibility, identifying implementation challenges, and recommending a practical development roadmap. If the proposed strategy is technically sound, realistic, and aligns with our business objectives, we intend to move forward into the development and implementation phase. We are interested in establishing a long-term working relationship with the right professional. ### Key Responsibilities 1. AI Strategy & Architecture - Review and evaluate the proposed AI strategy. - Recommend appropriate AI technologies, frameworks, and architecture. - Identify opportunities for AI agents, machine learning, and intelligent automation. - Evaluate technical feasibility, scalability, cost, and potential risks. - Develop a phased implementation roadmap. 2. AI-Powered Product Development - Automate product specification and Smart Tech Pack validation. - Explore AI-assisted garment pattern validation and measurement compatibility. - Develop intelligent data extraction and product information workflows. - Identify opportunities to reduce manual work in product development. 3. Manufacturing Automation & Optimization - Automate manufacturing data preparation, bills of materials, and SKU mapping. - Design intelligent production scheduling and machine utilization workflows. - Explore AI-assisted routing and autonomous mobile robot (AMR) coordination. - Integrate AI with manufacturing simulation and operational systems. - Develop solutions for production bottlenecks and exception handling. 4. Development & Implementation — Potential Next Phase If the initial strategy assessment is successful and the implementation plan is approved, the selected professional may continue into hands-on development. Responsibilities may include: - Designing and building AI services and agents. - Developing backend APIs and AI integrations. - Implementing AI-powered validation and automation workflows. - Integrating AI with existing software platforms and manufacturing systems. - Developing production scheduling and optimization solutions. - Testing, deploying, monitoring, and improving AI systems. - Collaborating with existing engineers and manufacturing specialists. ### Required Skills - Strong experience in AI/ML engineering and solutions architecture. - Python and production AI development. - LLMs, AI agents, and automation frameworks. - Backend development and API integrations. - Manufacturing systems such as MES, ERP, or PLM. - Production planning and optimization algorithms. - Scalable software architecture and system integration. - Strong problem-solving and technical communication skills. ### Preferred Skills - Apparel or textile manufacturing experience. - CAD and garment pattern validation. - Google OR-Tools or similar optimization frameworks. - Industrial robotics and AMR systems. - Discrete-event simulation and factory optimization. - Computer vision and predictive machine learning. - Cloud infrastructure and production AI deployment. ### Project Phases Phase 1 — AI Strategy Consultation Review the proposed AI strategy, evaluate technical feasibility, identify risks and dependencies, and recommend a practical roadmap. Phase 2 — Proof of Concept If Phase 1 is successful, select a high-value AI use case and build a working proof of concept to validate the technical approach. Phase 3 — Full Development & Integration If the proof of concept meets agreed technical and business objectives, proceed with broader AI development, integration, testing, and deployment Phase 4 — Potential Long-Term Collaboration Depending on project progress and performance, there may be opportunities for ongoing development, system optimization, and technical leadership. ### Ideal Candidate We are looking for someone who can contribute to both AI strategy and hands-on implementation. The ideal candidate should be able to evaluate complex technical requirements, recommend realistic solutions, and translate an AI roadmap into production-ready software. Experience with manufacturing systems, industrial automation, or complex enterprise software is highly preferred. We value practical engineering judgment and measurable results over simply introducing AI into every workflow.