Azure AI/Data Platform Architect--Assessment Engagement

Overview

We are seeking an Azure-focused AI / Data Platform Architect to support an organization in the early stages of its AI adoption.

This engagement will start with an initial ~100-hour assessment to evaluate the current Azure AI environment, define a practical path forward, and recommend architecture and tooling. Based on that assessment, there is a strong possibility of extending the engagement to execute and implement the recommended solutions.

This role requires someone who can operate both consultatively and hands-on, not a strategy-only resource.

Key Responsibilities

Initial Assessment

• Evaluate current Azure AI environment, tools, and capabilities


• Review existing architecture, integrations, and deployment approaches


• Identify gaps between experimentation and production readiness


• Provide recommendations for platform direction, tooling, and architecture


• Define a practical roadmap for implementation

Implementation & Execution

• Support setup of AI environments, sandboxes, and initial use cases


• Assist with deployments and prototypes


• Establish repeatable implementation patterns


• Partner with engineering, infrastructure, and data teams


• Help operationalize AI solutions within the enterprise

Required Experience

• Strong hands-on experience within Microsoft Azure


• Experience with Azure AI Services and/or Azure OpenAI


• Databricks experience within Azure environments


• Experience deploying AI/ML solutions into production


• Ability to balance architecture, assessment, and hands-on implementation


• Comfortable working in evolving, less-defined environments

Preferred Experience

• Copilot or conversational AI exposure


• Agentic AI experience


• API and integration architecture


• Enterprise governance and scalability considerations

Ideal Candidate

• Has personally built and deployed Azure AI platforms


• Able to assess current state and recommend practical next steps


• Strong mix of architecture and hands-on execution


• Experience moving AI initiatives from POC to production


• Comfortable stepping into ambiguous environments and helping shape direction


• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills