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.ย
โ Lead solution design and architecture for data platforms, analytics systems, AI/ML pipelines, and enterprise applications
โ Define high-level technical architecture including system integration patterns, data flow designs, and platform selection decisions
โ Translate business requirements into technical solution blueprints that are scalable, secure, and production-ready
โ Evaluate build vs. buy decisions and recommend technology stacks aligned with client objectives and capabilities
โ Conduct current-state assessments and design future-state technology roadmaps for client environments
โ Define data architecture standards, governance frameworks, and best practices for data platform implementations
โ Guide teams on Databricks, cloud platform (Azure, AWS, Google Cloud Platform), and data engineering design decisions
โ Review and validate technical designs produced by engineering teams to ensure architectural integrity
โ Produce solution architecture artifacts including system context diagrams, data flow models, and integration blueprints
โ Lead discovery workshops, requirements sessions, and solution design presentations with business and technology stakeholders
โ Communicate architectural decisions and technical tradeoffs to executive sponsors and steering committees
โ Identify technical risks early and define mitigation strategies in collaboration with delivery teams
โ Mentor engineers and data architects on design patterns, best practices, and standards
โ Contribute to intellectual property by developing reusable solution frameworks, templates, and accelerators
โ Support pre-sales and proposal efforts by contributing to technical scoping, estimates, and solution narratives
โ Represent firm at client sites, industry events, and partner engagements as a subject matter expert Location: Chicago
Must-Have Skills
โ 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
โ Hands-on experience with cloud platforms (Azure, AWS, or Google Cloud Platform) in an architecture or engineering capacity
โ Ability to create solution architecture artifacts (system diagrams, data flow models, integration blueprints)
โ Strong understanding of data platform architecture including data warehouses, lakehouses, ETL/ELT pipelines, and streaming systems
โ Experience with Databricks and MSSQL data querying skills
โ Experience defining system integration patterns and API design for enterprise environments
โ Strong business acumen with the ability to connect technical solutions to client ROI and business outcomes
โ Client-centric focus with strong relationship skills and the ability to influence technical decisions
โ Excellent client presence with experience presenting to C-level and VP-level stakeholders
โ Excellent verbal and written communication skills
โ Bachelorโs in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent work experience)