Advancement Systems Architect

This position administers the integration of AEAs 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 Universitys 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 AEAs 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

A Bachelors degree in computer science, information systems, or a related field is required. A Masters degree is 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 is preferred. Expert-level proficiency in relational database management systems (RDBMS) such as Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle, or PostgreSQL, and/or deep experience in other comparable systems. 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 Drivers 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, NoSQL, 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 pipelines.

### Management

• Directly supervise and manage two developer positions, including performance reviews, professional development, and day-to-day guidance.
• Assign tasks, monitor progress, and ensure the successful completion of projects undertaken by the programmer analyst team.
• Foster a collaborative and productive work environment for the team.

### Security and Compliance

• Design and implement robust database security measures, including access controls, encryption, data masking, and auditing, in adherence to University policies and industry best practices.
• Ensure data privacy and regulatory compliance, e.g., GDPR, FERPA, across all database solutions.
• Develop and manage data backup, recovery, and disaster recovery plans to minimize data loss and ensure business continuity.
• Develop quality standards to ensure data quality across database systems.

### Collaboration and Documentation

• Collaborate with teams across Syracuse to assess opportunities, gaps, growth, and improvements.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to AEA developers.
• Create and maintain comprehensive documentation for all database designs, architectures, and processes.
• Develop in-depth understanding of underlying data, data structure, and business users of data.
• Develop and manage effective working relationships with AEA departments, Campus Administration, and Divisions, with whom work must be coordinated or interfaced.

### Physical Requirements

Not Applicable

### Tools/Equipment

Not Applicable

### Application Instructions

In addition to completing an online application, please attach a resume and cover letter.