Head of AI Research Product
Via Transportation, Inc. is a global leader in smart transportation, utilizing technology to revolutionize mobility worldwide. The company is seeking a Head of AI Research Product to lead the integration of applied machine learning research and product innovation within Via's rider and transit operations platform. This role is pivotal in advancing Via's mission to enhance public transportation systems through AI-driven solutions.
The Head of AI Research Product will be responsible for building and leading Via's AI research product function, defining the roadmap for machine learning advancements that improve rider experience and transit network performance. Key duties include designing and deploying reinforcement learning systems to optimize routing, pooling efficiency, and real-time dispatching, as well as pioneering machine learning approaches for transit systems. The role also involves developing ensemble models and multi-objective optimization frameworks, creating personalization systems for riders, and researching behavioral incentive models to increase ridership. Collaboration with transit agencies to co-develop and validate novel AI approaches, and establishing rigorous experimentation infrastructure to measure the impact of model changes, are also essential aspects of this position.
Candidates should possess an MS or PhD in a quantitative field such as machine learning, operations research, statistics, applied mathematics, or a related discipline. Deep hands-on proficiency in machine learning, including reinforcement learning, supervised and unsupervised methods, probabilistic modeling, and optimization, is required. Experience with AlphaGo-style approaches and large-scale real-time inference systems is advantageous. A strong user-centric approach, business acumen, and the ability to collaborate effectively with engineering teams to transition models from research to production are essential. Experience working with external customers or partners to iterate on novel solutions in real-world conditions is also important.
The compensation package includes a salary range of $250,000 to $310,000 per year, with final salary determined by the candidate’s experience, knowledge, and skills. Additional benefits encompass comprehensive health coverage, a 401(k) plan with a generous company match, fully paid parental leave, and other perks.
Via Transportation fosters a culture of innovation and inclusivity, aiming to make public transit more efficient and equitable for all riders. The company offers opportunities for professional growth and the chance to contribute to transformative projects in the transportation sector.