RQ08013 - Applications Architect - Senior

Description Job Summary: The Senior I&IT Application Architect will be a key strategic leader in designing and implementing the Ontario Public Sector's (OPS) next-generation application integration and architecture solutions. This senior role requires a visionary architect who can guide the integration of critical applications, with a focus on permit systems and compliance frameworks, leveraging the Microsoft Azure cloud platform to optimize and future-proof our infrastructure. The ideal candidate will bring deep experience with OPS enterprise architecture, a talent for cross-departmental collaboration, and a commitment to delivering resilient, scalable, and secure architectures aligned with the provinces long-term goals. Key Responsibilities: Strategic Architecture & Integration Framework Design - Develop and maintain enterprise-wide architecture blueprints for integrating multiple critical OPS applications. - Ensure scalability, modularity, and compliance with evolving OPS and government standards. - Define and implement architecture best practices, ensuring alignment with OPS enterprise architecture guidelines. Cloud Infrastructure Management (Microsoft Azure) - Serve as the lead architect for cloud infrastructure solutions on Microsoft Azure. - Design and optimize resource allocation, security, and performance strategies in Azure environments. - Ensure compliance with OPS cloud security policies and public sector regulatory requirements. Lead System Integration Efforts - Oversee complex integration projects, including legacy-to-cloud transitions, permit systems, and inter-agency data sharing. - Ensure high availability, interoperability, and seamless functionality across all integrated systems. - Lead the adoption of microservices, APIs, and middleware to support enterprise system modernization. Enterprise Standardization & Best Practices - Establish and enforce enterprise architecture best practices, design review standards, and governance policies. - Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance OPS system performance and integration strategies. Cross-Functional Collaboration - Partner with IT teams, project managers, and business stakeholders across OPS to align architectural solutions with strategic objectives. - Provide technical leadership and mentorship to development teams, ensuring adherence to architectural principles. Risk Assessment & Compliance Oversight - Conduct regular risk assessments and compliance audits related to privacy, security, and data integrity. - Ensure all solutions meet Ontario public sector regulatory requirements and ITIL framework standards. Performance Optimization & Future-Readiness - Monitor system performance and scalability, making recommendations for enhancements. - Ensure the architecture is adaptable to future technological advancements and evolving OPS needs. Key Deliverables: Comprehensive Architecture Blueprint - Detailed documentation outlining the integration framework for OPS applications, emphasizing scalability, modularity, and compliance with OPS standards. Azure Cloud Infrastructure Solution Designs - Technical documentation of Azure-based infrastructure, including architecture diagrams, resource allocation strategies, security protocols, and disaster recovery plans. System Integration Plans and Roadmaps - Roadmaps and plans detailing the integration of legacy systems, permit systems, and inter-agency data-sharing strategies. - Clearly defined milestones and performance metrics for successful implementation. Enterprise Architecture & Best Practices Documentation - Standardized OPS architecture guidelines, including design review protocols, governance policies, and continuous improvement strategies. Risk Assessment & Compliance Reports - Regular reports addressing privacy, security, and data integrity risks, with recommended action plans. Performance & Scalability Reports - Continuous performance monitoring reports, including recommendations for optimizations to ensure the architecture remains future-ready. SkillsExperience and Skill Set Requirements Required Qualifications: - Education: Bachelors degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field. Masters degree or certifications (e.g., TOGAF, Azure Solutions Architect) are strongly preferred. - Experience: - 10+ years of progressive experience in IT architecture and system integration. - Demonstrated experience with OPS enterprise architecture standards, particularly within the Ontario public sector. - Strong track record in designing, implementing, and optimizing Microsoft Azure cloud infrastructure in large-scale, complex environments. - Proven ability to integrate complex permit and application systems while managing cross-functional dependencies. - Technical Skills: - Microsoft Azure: Expert in Azure architecture, including security, networking, identity, data services, and monitoring. - Enterprise Integration: Skilled in API development, ESB, microservices architecture, and middleware technologies. - Familiarity with ITIL processes, specifically incident, change, and release management, and the PMO Stage Gate process in OPS. - Knowledgeable in cloud-based security practices and compliance protocols relevant to OPS. - Leadership & Collaboration Skills: - Strong leadership abilities, with experience mentoring technical teams and influencing stakeholders across various levels. - Exceptional communication skills, with an ability to bridge technical and business perspectives and align project outcomes with organizational goals. Must Have: - Demonstrated experience with OPS enterprise architecture standards, particularly within the Ontario public sector. - Strong track record in designing, implementing, and optimizing Microsoft Azure cloud infrastructure in large-scale, complex environments. - Enterprise Integration: Skilled in API development, ESB, microservices architecture, and middleware technologies. - Experience designing multiple system integrations. - Previous OPS experience. Do not submit - Data Architects as they will not be shortlisted. Originally posted on Himalayas