Systems Architect

Position: Advancement Systems Architect
This position administers the integration of AEA's technical systems design, structures and interaction mapping of divisional software, hardware and infrastructure to support divisional and University goals. The role provides direction, solutions, integration and engineering of systems in concert with University's OneIT initiative. This includes on-premises and cloud-based infrastructure solutions. She/ he develops information systems using industry best practices and following all applicable standards, especially in the areas of security and integration.

The role leads, manages, and trains others during large-scale project implementations. Provides leadership and guidance to AEA's developers. Possesses in-depth knowledge of operating systems, cloud computing technologies, enterprise storage backup technologies, programming/scripting languages, enterprise hardware, and time series databases. They must also be adept at problem-solving and demonstrate the use of good judgment in situations requiring independent initiative and tact. She/ He manages, leaders, trains and evaluates two employees.

Position requires flexibility for occasional evening or weekend work to address critical system issues or complete system maintenance during low-usage periods.

The Division of Advancement & External Affairs expresses a shared mission that is collaborative, trusted, respectful, future-focused and is aligned with the overall University. All current and new employees embrace and demonstrate dedication to promoting shared values in an inclusive work culture to propel the future of advancement operations in their everyday work.

Education and Experience

* Bachelor's degree in computer science, information systems, or a related field required.

* Master's degree preferred.

* Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in database design, development, and architecture.

* 10+ years or more of experience as a developer in higher education preferred.

* Expert-level proficiency in relational database management systems (RDBMS) such as Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle, or Postgre

SQL and/or deep experience in other comparable.

* Strong expertise in data modeling (conceptual, logical, physical), normalization, and denormalization techniques.

* Proficiency in SQL and advanced query optimization. Experience in SQL programming is preferred.

* Position requires flexibility for occasional evening or weekend work to address critical system issues or complete system maintenance during low-usage periods. On-call availability is expected for emergency system support.

* Valid Driver's license is required.

Skills and Knowledge

* Demonstrated experience in designing and implementing complex database solutions in an enterprise environment.

* Experience with large-scale data migration and modernization initiatives is highly desirable.

* Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills with a keen attention to detail.

* Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to non-technical audiences.

* Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

* Proven ability to lead and influence technical discussions and decision-making.

* Experience with Advancement databases (i.e. gift, prospect, biographic schemas) and campus systems and/or deep experience in other comparable systems.

* Proven experience designing, developing, deploying, and maintaining BI and reporting solutions.

* Prior experience in a higher education or non-profit fundraising environment is a plus.

* Demonstrated experience in a leadership or supervisory role, preferably managing technical staff.

Responsibilities

Architecture and Strategy:

* Develop and implement database architectural standards, best practices, and governance frameworks to ensure consistency, security, and compliance.

* Proactively identify opportunities for database optimization, modernization, and innovation to support evolving business requirements.

* Collaborate with enterprise architects and other IT teams to ensure seamless integration of AEA databases within the broader University IT ecosystem.

* Work cross-functionally to ensure information and insights are being cascaded throughout the organization.

Database Design and Modeling:

* Design, develop, and maintain logical and physical data models for new and existing databases, ensuring data integrity, consistency, and optimal performance.

* Create detailed blueprints for database systems, including schemas, tables, relationships, indexes, views, and stored procedures.

* Evaluate and recommend appropriate database technologies (relational, No

SQL, cloud-based, data warehousing) based on specific business needs and architectural principles.

* Lead the design of data integration strategies and ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) processes for various data sources.

* Develop database objects, custom reporting views, and custom datasets.

* Develop data mart and data warehouse. Build efficient data models and…