We have a client in Chicago searching for a Solution Architect. This opportunity will be hybrid, and the client is located in downtown Chicago. The Solution Architect will own the technical vision and high-level solution design for complex data, AI, and digital engineering engagements. This is a senior, client-facing role responsible for translating business requirements into scalable, production-ready architectures and guiding engineering teams through implementation. This role requires a self-starter with deep technical breadth across data platforms, cloud infrastructure, and enterprise systems; the ability to lead solution design conversations with both business and technology stakeholders; and the consulting maturity to serve as a trusted technical advisor to clients. This is a permanent salaried opportunity. Heavily remote based, with 1-2 days in office per month.
Lead solution design and architecture for data platforms, analytics systems, AI/ML pipelines, and enterprise applications
Define high-level technical architecture including system integration patterns, data flow designs, and platform selection decisions
Translate business requirements into technical solution blueprints that are scalable, secure, and production-ready
Evaluate build vs. buy decisions and recommend technology stacks aligned with client objectives and capabilities
Conduct current-state assessments and design future-state technology roadmaps for client environments
Define data architecture standards, governance frameworks, and best practices for data platform implementations
Guide teams on Databricks, cloud platform (Azure, AWS, Google Cloud Platform), and data engineering design decisions
Review and validate technical designs produced by engineering teams to ensure architectural integrity
Produce solution architecture artifacts including system context diagrams, data flow models, and integration blueprints
Lead discovery workshops, requirements sessions, and solution design presentations with business and technology stakeholders
Communicate architectural decisions and technical tradeoffs to executive sponsors and steering committees
Identify technical risks early and define mitigation strategies in collaboration with delivery teams
Mentor engineers and data architects on design patterns, best practices, and standards
Contribute to intellectual property by developing reusable solution frameworks, templates, and accelerators
Support pre-sales and proposal efforts by contributing to technical scoping, estimates, and solution narratives
Represent firm at client sites, industry events, and partner engagements as a subject matter expert Location: Chicago
Must-Have Skills
8 to 12 years of experience in solution architecture, technical consulting, or senior engineering roles with at least 3 years leading architecture for complex engagements
Hands-on experience with cloud platforms (Azure, AWS, or Google Cloud Platform) in an architecture or engineering capacity
Ability to create solution architecture artifacts (system diagrams, data flow models, integration blueprints)
Strong understanding of data platform architecture including data warehouses, lakehouses, ETL/ELT pipelines, and streaming systems
Experience with Databricks and MSSQL data querying skills
Experience defining system integration patterns and API design for enterprise environments
Strong business acumen with the ability to connect technical solutions to client ROI and business outcomes
Client-centric focus with strong relationship skills and the ability to influence technical decisions
Excellent client presence with experience presenting to C-level and VP-level stakeholders
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Bachelor’s in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent work experience)