Job Summary:
The Infrastructure Architect is a key player in the broader domain of Enterprise Architecture, with a specialized focus on the essential technology components underpinning the organization’s infrastructure. In this role, the architect is responsible for shaping and evolving the IT infrastructure in line with the broader enterprise architecture framework. This position entails aligning technology solutions with the organization's business goals and IT strategies, while ensuring optimal performance, scalability, compliance, security, and resilience of the infrastructure.
Working in tandem with the Network Manager, Associate Director of Shared Services, VP of Infrastructure & Operations (I&O), Infrastructure Architecture colleagues and the broader Enterprise Architecture group, the Infrastructure Architect plays a pivotal role in evaluating business objectives. This involves conducting thorough assessments, defining technical strategies, developing architecture plans, and crafting proposals. Additionally, the role encompasses providing expert consulting services to various IT departments, ensuring cohesive and efficient IT operations across the organization.
Main Activities
General ResponsibilitiesTechnology Evaluation: Assess emerging infrastructure technologies and architectural alternatives for alignment with the organization's infrastructure or future business needs.Analytical and Technical Analysis: Perform analytical, technical, and cost analyses for the planning, design and infrastructure.Design Principles Application: Maintain a balance between cost-effective resource utilization and system availability, supportability, and integrity.Collaborative Solutions Design: Work with the Associate Director of Shared Services to engage stakeholders for solution assessments and design, enhancing technology infrastructure.Compliance with Standards: Ensure software and cloud architecture designs adhere to security and regulatory standards, including OSFI guidelines.IT Architecture Evaluation: Regularly review the IT architecture to identify gaps, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement.Technology Research and Testing: Explore and evaluate new software and cloud technologies, solutions, and vendors.Vendor Relationship Management: Develop strong vendor relationships to gain access to external expertise and innovative technologies.IT Enterprise Architecture Strategy: Aid in the development and upkeep of the IT enterprise architecture strategy and roadmap.Standards & Governance
Technology Standards Enforcement: Set and maintain technology standards, best practices, and architectural principles.Infrastructure Standards Implementation: Ensure infrastructure standards for hardware, software, networks, and technology components are met.Policies and Guidelines: Define and enforce infrastructure design, deployment, and maintenance policies.Risk Mitigation Strategy Development: Develop strategies to mitigate risks and collaborate with stakeholders for effective risk management.Leadership, Development, and Continuous Improvement
Technical Standards Establishment: Collaborate with the Associate Director of Shared Services to set technical standards for Technology Infrastructure.Ongoing System Maintenance: Adhere to internal and external technical standards for system maintenance and design projects.Networking Infrastructure Understanding: Work with IT colleagues to understand current and evolving networking infrastructure capabilities.Departmental Contributions: Participate in departmental initiatives and programs as required.Infrastructure Architect Forum Facilitation: Lead the Infrastructure Architect Forum, facilitating discussions on architecture, solutions, and tactical issues, and contribute to idea exchange.Trusted Advisor and Mentor: Serve as a trusted technical advisor and mentor, guiding customers, and cross-functional teams throughout project lifecycles.Knowledge/Skill Requirements:
Educational Background: Preferably a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science or Computer Engineering.Professional Experience: At least ten years in IT, with a minimum of five years in a senior IT technical lead role.Solution Design and Implementation: Proven expertise in designing and implementing enterprise-grade solutions with comprehensive documentation and strategic plans.Technical Proficiencies:
Database Systems: Proficiency in at least one relational database system for OLTP.Technology Stack Familiarity: Knowledge of JBoss, Apache, Tomcat, VMware, Pivotal Cloud Foundry, Docker, Kubernetes, Azure, and related technologies.UNIX Knowledge: Deep understanding of UNIX, LINUX, RedHat, and AIX.DevOps and Containerization: Demonstrated experience in maintaining DevOps pipelines and supporting Docker or Kubernetes environments.Database Design: Experience in relational database technologies and database schema design for transactional and data warehousing environments.Large Database Technologies: Familiarity with VLDB and multidimensional database design for data warehousing and business intelligence.Networking Expertise: Exceptional skills in routing hardware, software, protocols, and networking technologies.Security Frameworks and Technologies: Solid understanding of security frameworks and familiarity with various security technologies.Additional Skills and Knowledge:
Security and Compliance: Background in security certifications and familiarity with IT audit standards like CoBIT and PCI DSS.Software Architecture Frameworks: Knowledge in frameworks like TOGAF, BIAN, and NIST is preferred.Agile Methodology: Familiarity with core Agile events and practices.Diagramming Tools: Proficiency with tools like Lucidchart, Draw.io, Visio, and knowledge of EAS tools such as Abacus, Ardoq, or Enterprise Architect.Architecture Languages: Knowledge of Archimate, UML, BPMN, TOGAF, BIAN, and BIST.
