RQ08013 - Applications Architect - Senior

About this role

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:

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Education: Bachelors degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field. Masters degree or certifications (e.g., TOGAF, Azure Solutions Architect) are strongly preferred.

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Experience:

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10+ years of progressive experience in IT architecture and system integration.

• Demonstrated experience with OPS enterprise architecture standards, particularly within the Ontario public sector.

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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.

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Technical Skills:

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Microsoft Azure: Expert in Azure architecture, including security, networking, identity, data services, and monitoring.

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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.

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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.

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Strong track record in designing, implementing, and optimizing Microsoft Azure cloud infrastructure in large-scale, complex environments.

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Enterprise Integration: Skilled in API development, ESB, microservices architecture, and middleware technologies.

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