Systems Architect

Advancement Systems Architect

Job #: 042622
Location: Syracuse, NY
Pay Range: $92,000 - $95,000
Hours: Standard University business hours:
8:30am – 5:00pm (academic year)
8:00am – 4:30pm (summer)
Hours may vary based on operational needs.
Job Type: Full Time

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 OneIT initiative, including on‑premises and cloud‑based infrastructure solutions. She/He develops information systems using industry best practices and following applicable standards, especially in security and integration.

The role leads, manages, and trains others during large‑scale project implementations, providing leadership and guidance to AEA developers. Possesses in‑depth knowledge of operating systems, cloud computing technologies, enterprise storage backup technologies, programming/scripting languages, enterprise hardware, and time series databases. Must be adept at problem‑solving and demonstrate judgment in situations requiring independent initiative.

She/He manages, leads, 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.

Division of Advancement & External Affairs emphasizes collaborative, trusted, respectful, future‑focused culture aligned with the overall University mission.

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information systems, or related field required.
• Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in database design, development, and architecture.
• 10+ years of experience as a developer in higher education preferred.
• Expert‑level proficiency in RDBMS such as Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle, or Postgre
  
  SQL.
• Strong expertise in data modeling (conceptual, logical, physical), normalization, and denormalization techniques.
• Proficiency in SQL and advanced query optimization. Preference for SQL programming experience.
• On‑call availability for emergency system support.
• Valid driver’s license required.

• Design and implement complex database solutions in enterprise environments.
• Experience with large‑scale data migration and modernization initiatives.
• Exceptional analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to explain technical concepts to non‑technical audiences.
• Works independently and collaboratively in fast‑paced, team‑oriented environments.
• Leads and influences technical discussions and decision‑making.
• Experience with Advancement databases (gift, prospect, biographic schemas) and campus systems.
• Design, develop, deploy, and maintain BI and reporting solutions.
• Prior experience in higher education or non‑profit fundraising environment is a plus.
• Leadership or supervisory role, preferably managing technical staff.

Architecture and Strategy

• Develop and implement database architectural standards, best practices, and governance frameworks.
• Identify opportunities for database optimization, modernization, and innovation.
• Collaborate with enterprise architects and other IT teams to integrate AEA databases into the broader University IT ecosystem.
• Work cross‑functionally to ensure information and insights flow throughout the organization.

Database Design and Modeling

• Design, develop, and maintain logical and physical data models for new and existing databases.
• Create detailed blueprints for database systems, including schemas, tables, relationships, indexes, views, and stored procedures.
• Evaluate and recommend appropriate database technologies.
• Lead design of data integration strategies and ETL processes.
• Develop database objects, custom reporting views, and custom datasets.
• Build efficient data models and pipelines for data marts and warehouses.

Management

• Supervise and manage two developer positions, including performance reviews, professional development, and…