AI/MLOps Architect - R&D IT

About the role

Driscoll's is building an AI-assisted R&D capability that depends on trusted data, governed delivery patterns, secure environments, and production-grade model operations. This role sits within an emerging R&D IT function embedded in Global R&D and partners closely with Global IS, scientists, product leads, and engineers to define how AI is safely and repeatedly deployed across breeding, genomics, lab, phenotyping, sensory, and agronomy workflows. We are seeking an AI / MLOps Architect who can design and operationalize the backbone for governed AI at Driscoll's. This role is responsible for the patterns, platforms, controls, and runtime operations that allow models and AI-enabled services to move from prototype to dependable production use. The ideal candidate combines strong architecture judgment with hands-on experience in MLOps, model serving, evaluation, observability, lineage, and secure deployment. This is a hands-on architecture role for someone who enjoys building repeatable systems, reducing technical ambiguity, and creating a foundation that multiple R&D AI use cases can share. You will work closely with the AI Engineer, Product Owner, Full-Stack Engineer, data engineers, and domain partners to ensure AI solutions land on a common backbone rather than emerging as disconnected pilots. Driscoll's Information Services (IS) department is responsible for maintaining and developing digital services and solutions to support and enable the Driscoll's business, growers, and customers. Global IS operates in a rapidly changing business environment and has embarked on a significant digital transformation journey. The Global Information Services (IS) function operates through a global structure and is organized in departments by IT expertise. This role is located at our corporate headquarters in Watsonville, CA.