AI Data Specialist Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
AI Data Specialists are among the most actively sponsored roles in the U.S. right now. Most positions qualify under H-1B visa specialty occupation rules, and employers across tech, finance, and healthcare regularly file LCAs for this title. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
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Get Access To All JobsMAIN JOB RESPONSIBILITIES / COMPETENCIES
The Director, Enterprise Artificial Intelligence is responsible for leading the Company's enterprise Artificial Intelligence (AI) strategy and driving business transformation through the adoption of AI-enabled capabilities across the organization. This role partners closely with Executive Leadership, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Engineering, Quality Assurance, Regulatory Affairs, Commercial Operations, Finance, Human Resources, Cybersecurity, Infrastructure, and Information Technology to identify, prioritize, and implement Artificial Intelligence solutions that improve operational efficiency, decision making, customer experience, innovation, and long-term competitive advantage.
This position provides strategic leadership for enterprise AI governance, Responsible AI, Generative AI, Agentic AI, Machine Learning, Intelligent Automation, and enterprise knowledge management while ensuring AI initiatives deliver measurable business value, align with corporate objectives, and support secure, scalable, and sustainable business transformation.
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Lead and execute the Company's enterprise Artificial Intelligence strategy aligned with corporate objectives, digital transformation initiatives, and measurable business outcomes.
-
Establish and operationalize an Enterprise AI Center of Excellence (AI CoE) responsible for governance, standards, reusable AI capabilities, and enterprise adoption.
-
Drive enterprise business transformation through the application of Artificial Intelligence, Generative AI, Agentic AI, Machine Learning, Predictive Analytics, and Intelligent Automation.
-
Partner with executive leadership and business stakeholders to identify and prioritize AI initiatives that improve operational efficiency, product quality, customer experience, revenue growth, and employee productivity.
-
Develop enterprise AI roadmaps, investment strategies, business cases, and value realization plans.
-
Establish Responsible AI governance, AI policies, model lifecycle management, and AI risk management practices.
-
Lead implementation of RAG, semantic search, vector databases, AI assistants, and enterprise knowledge management.
-
Integrate AI with Oracle Fusion ERP, OCI, OIC, Salesforce, MES, PLM, enterprise data platforms, and cloud-native applications.
-
Establish KPIs and executive dashboards measuring AI adoption and business value.
-
Lead organizational change management and enterprise AI adoption.
-
Recruit and mentor a team of AI/Business Engineers, Data Engineer/architects and AI Product Owner.
-
Evaluate emerging AI technologies and strategic technology partnerships.
-
Foster innovation, continuous improvement, and responsible AI adoption.
-
Other duties as assigned.
REQUIREMENTS
EDUCATION & TRAINING
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Engineering, Information Technology, Business Administration, or related discipline required or equivalent combination of education/experience.
- Advanced degree preferred.
- Professional certifications in AI, Cloud Computing, Enterprise Architecture, Cybersecurity, Project Management, or Data Analytics are highly desirable.
Experience
- 12+ years of progressive leadership experience in enterprise technology, digital transformation, Artificial Intelligence, data analytics, enterprise architecture, software engineering, or related disciplines.
- 3+ years leading enterprise digital AI transformation organizations.
- Demonstrated success developing enterprise AI strategies delivering measurable business transformation.
- Experience with Generative AI, LLMs, Agentic AI, RAG, Machine Learning, Predictive Analytics, and Intelligent Automation.
- Experience in integrating AI with ERP, CRM, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Finance, HR, and enterprise platforms.
- Experience presenting AI strategies and business outcomes to executive leadership and Boards.
- Enterprise AI governance, organizational change management, and global business transformation.
- FDA-regulated medical devices, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, life sciences, or other regulated industries preferred.
SKILLS
- Strong knowledge of enterprise Artificial Intelligence strategy, governance, operating models, enterprise architecture, and business transformation methodologies, including the development of AI roadmaps, investment strategies, Centers of Excellence, and enterprise adoption frameworks.
- Deep understanding of Generative AI, Large Language Models (LLMs), Agentic AI, Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), prompt engineering, AI orchestration frameworks, semantic search, vector databases, AI assistants, autonomous agents, and intelligent automation technologies.
- Strong understanding of Machine Learning, Predictive Analytics, Natural Language Processing (NLP), Computer Vision, AI model lifecycle management, model evaluation, MLOps, LLMOps, and enterprise AI platform operations.
- Strong knowledge of enterprise cloud platforms including Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI), Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud Platform (GCP), cloud-native architectures, APIs, microservices, enterprise integration, event-driven architectures, and hybrid cloud environments.
- Deep understanding of enterprise data architecture, data governance, master data management, metadata management, data quality, knowledge management, vector storage, and enterprise information management principles supporting AI-enabled decision making.
- Strong understanding of Responsible AI principles, AI governance, cybersecurity, privacy, regulatory compliance, intellectual property protection, model transparency, explainability, AI ethics, enterprise risk management, and secure AI deployment practices.
- Demonstrated ability to align Artificial Intelligence investments with corporate strategy by developing business cases, value realization frameworks, key performance indicators (KPIs), executive dashboards, and measurable financial and operational outcomes.
- Ability to partner effectively with Executive Leadership, Information Technology, Manufacturing, Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality Assurance, Regulatory Affairs, Finance, Human Resources, Cybersecurity, Legal, and external technology partners to deliver enterprise-wide AI capabilities.
- Excellent analytical, strategic planning, organizational, communication, executive presentation, negotiation, financial management, vendor management, stakeholder engagement, and organizational change management skills.
- Demonstrated leadership building, mentoring, and scaling high-performing multidisciplinary teams consisting of AI Engineers, Data Scientists, Machine Learning Engineers, AI Solution Architects, Enterprise Architects, Product Managers, and business technology professionals.
- Proven ability to lead enterprise modernization initiatives, drive innovation, establish AI governance, manage organizational change, and deliver measurable business transformation while maintaining secure, scalable, and responsible AI practices.
Pay range: $200K - $300K - Final compensation/salary will depend on experience.
STAAR Surgical is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran or disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
LOCATION
Lake Forest, CA, US
Job Code: 2214
of Openings: 1
MAIN JOB RESPONSIBILITIES / COMPETENCIES
The Director, Enterprise Artificial Intelligence is responsible for leading the Company's enterprise Artificial Intelligence (AI) strategy and driving business transformation through the adoption of AI-enabled capabilities across the organization. This role partners closely with Executive Leadership, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Engineering, Quality Assurance, Regulatory Affairs, Commercial Operations, Finance, Human Resources, Cybersecurity, Infrastructure, and Information Technology to identify, prioritize, and implement Artificial Intelligence solutions that improve operational efficiency, decision making, customer experience, innovation, and long-term competitive advantage.
This position provides strategic leadership for enterprise AI governance, Responsible AI, Generative AI, Agentic AI, Machine Learning, Intelligent Automation, and enterprise knowledge management while ensuring AI initiatives deliver measurable business value, align with corporate objectives, and support secure, scalable, and sustainable business transformation.
-
Lead and execute the Company's enterprise Artificial Intelligence strategy aligned with corporate objectives, digital transformation initiatives, and measurable business outcomes.
-
Establish and operationalize an Enterprise AI Center of Excellence (AI CoE) responsible for governance, standards, reusable AI capabilities, and enterprise adoption.
-
Drive enterprise business transformation through the application of Artificial Intelligence, Generative AI, Agentic AI, Machine Learning, Predictive Analytics, and Intelligent Automation.
-
Partner with executive leadership and business stakeholders to identify and prioritize AI initiatives that improve operational efficiency, product quality, customer experience, revenue growth, and employee productivity.
-
Develop enterprise AI roadmaps, investment strategies, business cases, and value realization plans.
-
Establish Responsible AI governance, AI policies, model lifecycle management, and AI risk management practices.
-
Lead implementation of RAG, semantic search, vector databases, AI assistants, and enterprise knowledge management.
-
Integrate AI with Oracle Fusion ERP, OCI, OIC, Salesforce, MES, PLM, enterprise data platforms, and cloud-native applications.
-
Establish KPIs and executive dashboards measuring AI adoption and business value.
-
Lead organizational change management and enterprise AI adoption.
-
Recruit and mentor a team of AI/Business Engineers, Data Engineer/architects and AI Product Owner.
-
Evaluate emerging AI technologies and strategic technology partnerships.
-
Foster innovation, continuous improvement, and responsible AI adoption.
-
Other duties as assigned.
REQUIREMENTS
EDUCATION & TRAINING
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Engineering, Information Technology, Business Administration, or related discipline required or equivalent combination of education/experience.
- Advanced degree preferred.
- Professional certifications in AI, Cloud Computing, Enterprise Architecture, Cybersecurity, Project Management, or Data Analytics are highly desirable.
Experience
- 12+ years of progressive leadership experience in enterprise technology, digital transformation, Artificial Intelligence, data analytics, enterprise architecture, software engineering, or related disciplines.
- 3+ years leading enterprise digital AI transformation organizations.
- Demonstrated success developing enterprise AI strategies delivering measurable business transformation.
- Experience with Generative AI, LLMs, Agentic AI, RAG, Machine Learning, Predictive Analytics, and Intelligent Automation.
- Experience in integrating AI with ERP, CRM, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Finance, HR, and enterprise platforms.
- Experience presenting AI strategies and business outcomes to executive leadership and Boards.
- Enterprise AI governance, organizational change management, and global business transformation.
- FDA-regulated medical devices, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, life sciences, or other regulated industries preferred.
SKILLS
- Strong knowledge of enterprise Artificial Intelligence strategy, governance, operating models, enterprise architecture, and business transformation methodologies, including the development of AI roadmaps, investment strategies, Centers of Excellence, and enterprise adoption frameworks.
- Deep understanding of Generative AI, Large Language Models (LLMs), Agentic AI, Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), prompt engineering, AI orchestration frameworks, semantic search, vector databases, AI assistants, autonomous agents, and intelligent automation technologies.
- Strong understanding of Machine Learning, Predictive Analytics, Natural Language Processing (NLP), Computer Vision, AI model lifecycle management, model evaluation, MLOps, LLMOps, and enterprise AI platform operations.
- Strong knowledge of enterprise cloud platforms including Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI), Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud Platform (GCP), cloud-native architectures, APIs, microservices, enterprise integration, event-driven architectures, and hybrid cloud environments.
- Deep understanding of enterprise data architecture, data governance, master data management, metadata management, data quality, knowledge management, vector storage, and enterprise information management principles supporting AI-enabled decision making.
- Strong understanding of Responsible AI principles, AI governance, cybersecurity, privacy, regulatory compliance, intellectual property protection, model transparency, explainability, AI ethics, enterprise risk management, and secure AI deployment practices.
- Demonstrated ability to align Artificial Intelligence investments with corporate strategy by developing business cases, value realization frameworks, key performance indicators (KPIs), executive dashboards, and measurable financial and operational outcomes.
- Ability to partner effectively with Executive Leadership, Information Technology, Manufacturing, Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality Assurance, Regulatory Affairs, Finance, Human Resources, Cybersecurity, Legal, and external technology partners to deliver enterprise-wide AI capabilities.
- Excellent analytical, strategic planning, organizational, communication, executive presentation, negotiation, financial management, vendor management, stakeholder engagement, and organizational change management skills.
- Demonstrated leadership building, mentoring, and scaling high-performing multidisciplinary teams consisting of AI Engineers, Data Scientists, Machine Learning Engineers, AI Solution Architects, Enterprise Architects, Product Managers, and business technology professionals.
- Proven ability to lead enterprise modernization initiatives, drive innovation, establish AI governance, manage organizational change, and deliver measurable business transformation while maintaining secure, scalable, and responsible AI practices.
Pay range: $200K - $300K - Final compensation/salary will depend on experience.
STAAR Surgical is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran or disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
LOCATION
Lake Forest, CA, US
Job Code: 2214
of Openings: 1
See all 5,659+ AI Data Specialist Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Visa Sponsorship as an AI Data Specialist
Lead with your degree field, not just your degree
Employers filing an H-1B for this role need to show the position requires a specific degree. A background in computer science, statistics, or data science strengthens the specialty occupation argument more than a general STEM degree.
Highlight experience with AI frameworks in your resume
Concrete tools matter for LCA job descriptions. Listing experience with PyTorch, TensorFlow, or large language model pipelines gives employers the specificity they need to write a defensible H-1B job description to submit to USCIS.
Target employers with active LCA filings in AI and data
Not all companies sponsor. Focus on employers with a documented history of filing Labor Condition Applications for data and AI roles. These companies already understand the process and are far less likely to rescind offers over sponsorship complexity.
Understand the difference between OPT and H-1B timing
If you're on F-1 OPT or STEM OPT extension, your employer needs to file your H-1B cap petition by April 1 for an October 1 start. Missing this window means reapplying next year, so raise the timeline early in negotiations.
Use your project portfolio to justify specialty occupation
USCIS scrutinizes AI and data roles more than traditional software engineering positions. A portfolio showing model development, data pipeline architecture, or research contributions helps demonstrate that the role genuinely requires specialized theoretical knowledge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does an AI Data Specialist role qualify as an H-1B specialty occupation?
Yes, in most cases. USCIS requires the position to normally require at least a bachelor's degree in a specific specialty. AI Data Specialist roles tied to computer science, statistics, or data science typically satisfy this. The risk arises when a job description is written broadly enough that any STEM degree could qualify, which weakens the specialty occupation argument. Employers and attorneys often tighten job descriptions before filing to reduce this exposure.
What degree do I need for an employer to sponsor me as an AI Data Specialist?
A bachelor's degree or higher in computer science, data science, statistics, mathematics, or a closely related field is the standard requirement. The degree must relate directly to the duties of the role. If your degree is in a tangentially related field, a combination of education and progressive work experience can sometimes substitute, but this requires stronger documentation and is harder to defend at USCIS.
How do I find AI Data Specialist jobs that offer visa sponsorship?
The most efficient approach is to use a platform that filters specifically for sponsorship-willing employers. Migrate Mate is built for exactly this, with AI and data roles sourced from companies that actively file H-1B visa petitions. Browsing general job boards and filtering manually is significantly slower and often surfaces roles where sponsorship is listed as possible but never confirmed by the employer.
Are H-1B approvals common for AI and data roles, or is there high denial risk?
Approval rates for AI and data roles are generally strong when the job description is well-constructed and the applicant's degree aligns with the position. Denials most often occur when USCIS issues a Request for Evidence questioning whether the role truly requires a specialized degree, or when the employer's job description is too generic. Companies with experienced immigration counsel file better petitions and have lower RFE rates for these roles.
Can I switch employers after my H-1B is approved for an AI Data Specialist position?
Yes. H-1B portability allows you to transfer your visa to a new employer once your current petition has been approved and you've entered valid H-1B status. The new employer must file an H-1B transfer petition before your start date with them. You can begin working for the new employer as soon as the transfer petition is filed and receipt is confirmed, without waiting for full approval.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored AI Data Specialist jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.