IT Enterprise Architect, IT Architecture-Senior/Specialist

Salary : $104,304.00 - $140,268.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2026-9-6774-07971
Department: Dept. of Natural Resources
Opening Date: 09/24/2026
Closing Date: 10/14/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step

Description
IT Enterprise Architect, IT Architecture-Senior/SpecialistRecruitment #2026-9-6774
Full-time, Permanent, Represented position (WFSE)
Location: Natural Resources Building- Olympia, WA
Work Hours and Partial Telework flexibility may be available and consideredSalary: $8,692.00 - $11,689.00 Monthly

Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 10/1/26. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible.

Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity within our Information Technology Division (ITD) as a Senior Enterprise Architect. We are looking for a motivated self-starter to lead the design, development, and ongoing stewardship of DNR's enterprise-wide architecture. You would report to the IT Operations Manager within the Information Technology Division (ITD) and partner with teams across ITD (including network, infrastructure, cybersecurity, development, and the project management office (PMO), as well as with DNR business partners, to design solutions that support mission-critical operations.
Duties

Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain enterprise-wide architecture models, diagrams, and standard documentation across business, application, information, and technology domains to ensure alignment with Agency goals.
• Build and maintain a two-year rolling IT technology roadmap, in coordination with leadership, that identifies modernization priorities, end-of-life risks, funding requirements, and opportunities for efficiency and standardization.
• Develop conceptual and logical models of future-state architecture, incorporating hardware/software frameworks to support long-term modernization aligned with the Agency's mission and IT strategy.
• Ensure platform changes and technology additions align with existing Agency systems, strategy, and outcomes, and support long-term planning and growth.
• Align enterprise architecture and engineering efforts with business strategy and agency outcomes.
• Define and enforce enterprise architecture principles, standards, and compliance for architectural consistency across all initiatives.
• Develop and maintain a standardized documentation repository of architectural artifacts to ensure institutional knowledge is accessible and reusable across the enterprise.
• Lead and support enterprise-wide IT initiatives that drive strategic alignment and technology adoption.
• Establish and enforce enterprise architectural policies, standards, and governance practices to reduce technical debt, improve lifecycle management, and ensure consistent, supportable environments.
• Advise agency leadership, service owners, and business partners on technology decisions, ensuring alignment with mission, strategy, and performance for business objectives.
• Communicate architecture perspectives (conceptual, logical, physical) in language and format tailored for both executives and technical teams.
• Develop and present visual models and strategic plans to support IT decision-making.
• Engage with business and technical partners to ensure technology decisions are transparent, aligned, and well-understood.
• Provide consultation to project teams and service owners to ensure early alignment with enterprise architecture.
• Advise leadership in understanding return on investment (ROI), total cost of ownership, and value of technology initiatives.
• Drive enterprise-wide IT initiatives and ensure architectural consistency across projects.
• Monitor and improve enterprise architecture performance through measurable outcomes and partner feedback to drive service and technology quality improvements through data-informed decisions.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:
You must meet all the Required Qualifications and Competencies to be considered for this position. There are multiple pathways to meet qualifications, such as education, volunteer work, life skills, and experience. Please clearly communicate in your application material that your skills align with the position and qualifications.

• Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or other closely related field AND five (5) years of IT architecture experience supporting complex/enterprise technology environments;
  OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and professional experience that demonstrates the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Experience in conducting proof-of-concept evaluations and developing current-state and target-state architectural models.
• Experience in the development of multi-year technology roadmaps.
• Experience with architecture modeling tools and diagramming platforms.
• Knowledge of principles and practices of multiple IT disciplines including data management, IT security principles, local and wide area networks, data storage, and application architecture principles.
• Knowledge of IT governance, standardization, and lifecycle management.
• Experience in evaluating technologies and aligning architecture with business strategy.
• Experience with on-premises, hybrid, and multi-cloud infrastructure (e.g., Microsoft ecosystems, Azure, AWS).
• Experience evaluating business capabilities, processes, workflows, dependencies, and technology enablement to identify architectural needs and opportunities.
• Experience in conducting architecture reviews, applying enterprise architecture principles and standards, evaluating alternatives, identifying architectural risks, and developing actionable recommendations and decisions.
• Experience evaluating technology portfolios and investments for strategic alignment, business value, lifecycle risk, duplication, dependencies, technical debt, interoperability, supportability, and total cost of ownership.

Required Competencies:

• Accustomed to evaluating technology as an interconnected enterprise ecosystem and considering relationships among business capabilities, applications, data/information, security, integrations, infrastructure, operations, people, and processes.
• Critical Thinking and Complex Problem Solving- Accustomed to defining complex and ambiguous problems, evaluating relevant information, identifying assumptions and dependencies, considering multiple perspectives, and developing well-supported conclusions and recommendations.
• Executive, Technical, and Professional Communication - Accustomed to communicating complex architecture and technology information clearly and concisely in verbal, written, and visual formats; adapt communication for executive, business, technical, and external audiences; and professionally represent the agency in committees, workgroups, forums, and other collaborative settings.
• Relationship Management, Influence, and Consensus Building - Advanced ability to establish trusted working relationships, facilitate management- and technical-level discussions, influence and negotiate without direct authority, constructively challenge proposed approaches, and build consensus among stakeholders with differing priorities, while professionally collaborating with executives, managers, business partners, technical teams, vendors, committees, workgroups, and external government partners.
• Washington State IT Policy and Enterprise Governance- Accustomed to interpreting and applying applicable Washington State enterprise IT policies, standards, guidelines, technology requirements, and enterprise services.
• Commitment to fostering and supporting an environment that honors diversity, equity, inclusion, and environmental justice practices.
• Perform assigned duties in a manner consistent with applicable laws, regulations, and public records retention, and ensure requests are followed.
• DNR Core Competencies:
  • Personal Accountability
  • Value Others
  • Compassionate Communication
  • Inspire Others
  • Commitment to Excellence

Special Requirements and Conditions of Employment:

• This position's assigned duty station is the Natural Resources Building located in Olympia, WA. This position is eligible for Telework arrangements with prior approval from their direct supervisor.
• Occasional travel.

Desired Qualifications:
These qualifications are not required. However, it can help you stand out as a candidate and should be highlighted in your application material.

• Master's degree in Information Systems, Computer Science, Business Administration, or related field AND 7 years of IT experience in one or more of the following Enterprise Architecture domains: business, data, application, or technology;
  OR an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
• Experience working in a public sector, government agency, or highly regulated environment.
• Advanced knowledge of enterprise architecture frameworks (e.g., TOGAF, Zachman, FEAF).
• Experience modernizing legacy systems or leading digital transformation initiatives.
• Experience in enterprise-level IT governance or standards development.
• MSCE, CITA, CCNA, EACOE, CISSP, Security+, ITIL, TOGAF certifications. One certification counts toward 1 year of total experience required, up to three certificates.

At DNR, we value diversity and inclusion and are committed to hiring the best candidate for the job. Don't let doubts stop you from applying for this position. If you have any questions about the qualifications, please email us at
Supplemental Information
Application Requirements: Failure to provide the listed documents may result in disqualification. If you have questions or difficulty attaching these documents, please contact

• Online Application: Apply at (Click on the APPLY button above). You must complete the entire online application to be considered for the position.
• Cover Letter: Your cover letter should be tailored to this job posting. Be sure to highlight your qualifications for this role, directly address the requirements of the position, and explain why you're the best candidate for the job.
• Resume: Your resume should consist of your work history, education, volunteer work, life skills, experience, and any other relevant information associated with the position.
• References: References are optional at the time your application is submitted. Finalists will be asked to provide a list of at least three (3) professional references, to include a current or most recent supervisor, along with telephone numbers.
• Complete All Supplemental Questions: Answers to these questions will be used to evaluate candidates. Please provide comprehensive answers to all questions requiring a text response.
• Important: Do not attach any documents that include photos or private information (Social Security Number, year of birth, etc.).
• Email Communication: Candidates who move forward in the recruitment process may be contacted via email at with interview information/scheduling instructions. Please monitor the email listed in your application materials and check your junk email folder to ensure you receive these communications.

Questions? Please contact Becca Paice at v/ or email us at

Persons needing accommodation in the application/testing process or this job announcement in an alternative format may call or email Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through the by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-.

About the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
At DNR, we approach our work through the lens of making Washington a better place environmentally and are dedicated to serving Washington's lands and communities through diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Our Vision - Our actions ensure a future where Washington's lands, waters, and communities thrive.
Our Mission - Manage, sustain, and protect the health and productivity of Washington's lands and waters to meet the needs of present and future generations.
Our Core Values:

• Safety and Well-Being -Our top priority is the safety of the public and our employees.
• Public Service -We value and respect the public we serve, and we value and respect the people of the Department of Natural Resources who step up to serve.
• Innovation and Creative Problem-Solving - We solve our state's most pressing challenges through innovative thinking, dedication, and bold and creative vision.
• Leadership and Teamwork -We are committed to building leaders at all levels and building teams for success.

DNR provides excellent benefits, a few of which include:

• Commitment to organizational health and wellness
• Work/life balance
• DNR Employee Resource Groups (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council, Women's Employee Resource Group, Veterans Employee Resource Group, etc.)
• Statewide Employee Business Resource Groups,
• Leadership that empowers and supports employees
• Professional development opportunities
• Educational and career development aid
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Eligibility
• Opportunities to participate in wildland fire suppression assignments
• A comprehensive benefits package includes employer contributions toward health insurance, paid holidays, retirement plans, sick leave, and vacation days. Visit for more information.

Additional Information:
This recruitment may be extended and used to fill future similar vacancies for up to sixty (60) days.

DNR does not use E-Verify; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM-Optional Practice Training (OPT). For information, please visit

Veterans wishing to claim Veteran's preference, please attach a copy of your DD214 (Member 4 long-form copy), NGB 22, or a USDVA signed verification of service letter. Please black out all PII (personally identifiable information) data, such as Social Security numbers. We thank you and are grateful for your service!

Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Natural Resources is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation, and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons with disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.

Once you submit your online application, you can check your status by logging into your account. If you experience technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, call or 1- or email

Check us out on: | | | | |
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave
Leave Sharing

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 01-07-2026
01

Please specify where you originally learned of this employment opportunity.
02

Please describe what interests you about the Department of Natural Resources.
03

Please describe what a work environment based on diversity, equity, inclusivity and belonging means to you.
04

Which statement best describes your qualifications for this position?

• OPTION A: I have a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or other closely related field AND five (5) years of IT architecture experience supporting complex/enterprise technology environments.
• OPTION B: I meet the minimum qualifications through an equivalent combination of education, training, and professional experience that demonstrates the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• OPTION C: I do not meet these qualifications at this time.

05

If you selected OPTION A or C in the previous question, please type N/A. If you selected OPTION B, please describe the experience you gained through education, training, and/or professional experience that demonstrates the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
06

Do you have experience in conducting proof-of-concept evaluations and developing current-state and target-state architectural models?

• Yes
• No

07

Do you have experience in the development of multi-year technology roadmaps?

• Yes
• No

08

Do you have experience with architecture modeling tools and diagramming platforms?

• Yes
• No

09

Do you have experience in evaluating technologies and aligning architecture with business strategy?

• Yes
• No

10

Do you have experience with on-premises, hybrid, and multi-cloud infrastructure (e.g., Microsoft ecosystems, Azure, AWS)?

• Yes
• No

11

Do you have experience evaluating business capabilities, processes, workflows, dependencies, and technology enablement to identify architectural needs and opportunities?

• Yes
• No

12

Do you have experience in conducting architecture reviews, applying enterprise architecture principles and standards, evaluating alternatives, identifying architectural risks, and developing actionable recommendations and decisions?

• Yes
• No

13

Do you have experience evaluating technology portfolios and investments for strategic alignment, business value, lifecycle risk, duplication, dependencies, technical debt, interoperability, supportability, and total cost of ownership?

• Yes
• No

14

Do you currently require, or will you require in the future, employer sponsorship for a work visa? Please note that DNR does not use E-Verify and cannot extend STEM OPT.

• Yes
• No

Required Question