Artificial Intelligence Technologist

Position Title: Artificial Intelligence Technologist

Reports To: Executive Director

Position Type: Full-Time

Location: Chicago, IL; Cleveland, OH; Detroit, MI; or West Palm Beach, FL

Position Summary

McDonald Hopkins is seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Artificial Intelligence Technologist to join the firm in a newly created, full-time role. This position is central to the firm's strategic initiative to integrate artificial intelligence into its legal practice and business operations. The AI Technologist will serve as the firm's primary subject-matter expert on AI tools and methodologies, working at the intersection of technology and legal practice to drive innovation, improve efficiency, and expand the firm's service capabilities. The ideal candidate combines technical fluency in AI systems with an understanding of—or strong curiosity about—the legal profession and its workflows.

Firm Overview

McDonald Hopkins is a mid-sized law firm with a reputation for delivering sophisticated legal counsel across a range of practice areas. With a commitment to innovation and operational excellence, the firm invests in forward-thinking technology solutions that enhance the quality and efficiency of its legal services.

McDonald Hopkins is a full-service law firm with over 200 attorneys and offices in Chicago, IL; Cleveland, OH; Detroit, MI; and West Palm Beach, FL.

Key Responsibilities

AI Strategy & Implementation

Collaborate directly with attorneys and practice group leaders to identify opportunities for AI-driven solutions that address substantive legal work, client service, and operational efficiency.
Design, develop, and implement AI workflows and AI agents tailored to the firm's legal practice needs, including document review, legal research, contract analysis, and knowledge management.
Evaluate, recommend, and manage third-party AI platforms and tools, ensuring alignment with the firm's strategic objectives, security requirements, and ethical obligations.

Training & Adoption

Develop and coordinate comprehensive AI training programs for attorneys, paralegals, and support staff at all levels of technical proficiency.
Create documentation, guides, and best-practice resources to support firm-wide adoption of AI tools.
Serve as an accessible internal resource and advisor on the effective and responsible use of AI in legal practice.
Develop metrics to quantitatively and objectively measure usage of AI solutions.
Drive adoption of AI tools.

Research & Thought Leadership

Monitor emerging developments in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing, and evaluate their applicability to legal services.
Track regulatory developments, bar association guidance, and ethical considerations related to AI use in the practice of law.
Advise firm leadership on strategic opportunities and risks associated with AI adoption, and contribute to the development of internal AI governance policies.

Collaboration & Project Management

Partner with the firm's IT, knowledge management, and innovation teams to ensure seamless integration of AI tools within existing technology infrastructure.
Manage AI-related projects from concept through deployment, including requirements gathering, testing, iteration, and post-implementation assessment.
Work with practice group leaders both virtually and in person to identify workflow opportunities and help deliver solutions.
Bring a high level of energy and engagement to advance the Firm’s AI initiatives.
Engage with external vendors, consultants, and technology partners as needed.

Qualifications

Required

Bachelor's degree in computer science, data science, information systems, or a related field.
3–5 years of professional experience working with artificial intelligence technologies, including large language models (LLMs), natural language processing, or machine learning.
Demonstrated experience with AI platforms and tools (e.g., Harvey AI, Spellbook, OpenAI, Claude, or comparable frameworks).
Proficiency with workflow automation tools and the ability to build and deploy AI-powered workflows in a professional services environment.
Strong project management skills with a track record of delivering technology solutions on time and within scope.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to translate complex technical concepts for non-technical audiences.
Ability to work collaboratively with attorneys and legal professionals across all levels of seniority.

Preferred

J.D. or law degree from an accredited institution. While not required, a legal background is considered a significant asset for this role.
Familiarity with legal processes, terminology, and the professional and ethical obligations governing the practice of law.
Experience in a law firm, legal department, or legal technology company.
Knowledge of legal-specific AI tools and platforms (e.g., Harvey, CoCounsel, Relativity aiR, or similar).
Experience developing and delivering training programs in a professional or enterprise setting.
Familiarity with data privacy, information security, and AI governance frameworks.

Compensation & Benefits

McDonald Hopkins offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with experience and qualifications. Benefits include health insurance, retirement plan and paid time off. arrangements. Salary range: $120,000 - $150,000.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and any relevant portfolio materials through the link on our website or directly to Alex Ripich, Director of Recruiting, aripich@mcdonaldhopkins.com. McDonald Hopkins is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in its workforce.