Fast Facts

Nelnet is seeking an IT Director for Agentic AI to lead AI initiatives aligning them with business goals, fostering innovation, and ensuring scalable and compliant workflows.

Responsibilities: Define AI adoption roadmap, manage operational budgets, support team development, and ensure governance of AI initiatives.

Skills: Strong leadership in AI strategy, knowledge of LLMs and agentic AI, excellent communication skills, and experience in change management.

Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science (MBA preferred) with 10+ years IT experience, including 5-10 years in management.

Location: Hybrid in Lincoln, Nebraska, United States

Compensation: $150000 - $200000 / Annually

Nelnet is a diversified and innovative company committed to enriching lives through the power of service as a student loan servicer, professional services company, consumer loan originator and servicer, payments processor, renewable energy solutions, and K-12 and higher education expert. For over 40 years, Nelnet has been serving its customers, associates, and communities.

The perks of working at Nelnet go beyond our benefits package. When you join the Nelnet team, you're part of a community invested in the success of each individual. That support comes through in our work, as we are united by our mission of creating opportunities for people where they live, learn, and work.

The Director of Agentic AI will lead the strategic vision, integration, and enablement of agentic AI across the organization. This role is responsible for aligning AI initiatives with business priorities, fostering a culture of responsible innovation, and ensuring that agentic AI capabilities are scalable, auditable, and impactful. As a key bridge between technical teams and business leaders, this role will champion the agentic AI vision and help Nelnet stay in line with the AI transformation curve.

• Strategy & Integration: Define the roadmap for agentic AI adoption; align governance, enablement, and development with business goals
• Enablement & Evangelism: Inspire and coach teams on AI readiness and responsible usage; scale frameworks and best practices
• Governance & Compliance: Collaborate with audit, compliance, and IT to ensure secure, traceable, and compliant agentic workflows
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with the Agentic AI Architect, CoEs, and platform teams to drive adoption and continuous improvement
• People & Culture: Attract and develop talent; foster innovation and inclusion; support sustainable work/life balance
• Budget & Operations: Manage staffing plans, budgets, and vendor relationships

Salary range for this role: $150,000-$200,000

EDUCATION:

Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science (MBA preferred) and/or commensurate experience.

EXPERIENCE:

10+ years IT experience with 5 - 10 years in a management position. Experience should include IT planning, governance and system development. 

COMPETENCIES – SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE/ABILITIES:

• Proven leadership in AI strategy, enablement, or digital transformation
• Strong understanding of LLMs and agentic AI principles
• Excellent communication and influence across technical and business audiences
• Experience with change management and AI governance
• Must be flexible and motivated to work in a fast-paced environment
• Background in internal consulting or enterprise transformation
• Passion for helping teams grow and lead through change

Our benefits package includes medical, dental, vision, HSA and FSA, generous earned time off, 401K/student loan repayment, life insurance & AD&D insurance, employee assistance program, employee stock purchase program, tuition reimbursement, performance-based incentive pay, short- and long-term disability, and a robust wellness program. Click here to learn more about our benefits: LINK.

Nelnet is committed to providing a welcoming and respectful workplace where all associates have the opportunity to succeed. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we ensure that all qualified applicants are considered for employment. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion/creed, national origin, gender, sex, marital status, age, disability, use of a guide dog or service animal, sexual orientation, military/veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law. We value the unique contributions of every team member and believe that a positive work environment benefits everyone. 

Qualified individuals with disabilities who require reasonable accommodations in order to apply or compete for positions at Nelnet may request such accommodations by contacting Corporate Recruiting at 402-486-5725 orcorporaterecruiting@nelnet.net.

Nelnet is a Drug Free and Tobacco Free Workplace.