Solution Architect

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)