New

Solution Architect

The Pennsylvania State University
paid time off, sick time
United States, Pennsylvania, University Park
201 Old Main (Show on map)
May 22, 2025
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday. CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday. If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants. POSITION SPECIFICS If you're interested in being a part of an Information Technology Team that works hard finding solutions and providing the best user experience for our students, faculty, and staff, all while still having fun with co-workers, then consider working for Penn State's Outreach and Online Education Information Technology (OOE IT). We investigate, evaluate, and collaborate to find the best technical tools and setup for our future, and the next generation of online learners. With a predominantly remote workforce, OOE IT provides tools and a supportive online environment to enable team members to be effective and connected members of the University with an emphasis on work life balance. We are looking for a Solution Architect to join our growing Architecture Team. The successful candidate will have proven experience leading the identification, selection, and configuration of PaaS and SaaS implementations to meet business needs and drive value. In addition to translating business requirements into successful vended deployments, this role will include responsibilities for ongoing vendor and contract management. A key part of our mission is shaping an optimized IT landscape that supports the mission of Penn State - and to do that, we need a qualified and dedicated solution architect. Preferred candidates will be skilled at identifying pain points and guiding the selection and implementation of vended solutions to solve company problems. The solution architect will be deeply involved in daily work across all business units, regularly interacting with both stakeholders and subject matter experts. OBJECTIVE OF ROLE Develop an understanding of our existing IT landscape while actively searching for improvement areas Streamline workflows by implementing inventive solutions Engage with stakeholders, and guide them through solution identification, selection, and the configuration and implementation of PaaS and SaaS products Manage IT vendors, contracts, licenses, and renewals Partner with others to drive organization-wide business optimization Ensure solutions align current needs with long-term business goals Evaluate existing and emerging technologies on a regular basis RESPONSIBILITIES Match business requirements with potential vendor solutions Develop Solution Proposals that compare solution options and provide actionable recommendations Evaluate solutions for value and fit to the technology and business landscape Identify points for integration and recommend approaches Connect with subject matter experts (SMEs) to identify problem areas Propose IT solutions to meet the organization's challenges Facilitate solution design and configuration documentation Ensure comprehensive IT documentation Partner with teams across business functions to drive organizational efficiency ADDITIONAL INFORMATION The location of this position is supportive of flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of OOE IT and the essential duties of the position. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process. QUALIFICATIONS Excellent analytical skills Knack for finding creative solutions Solid understanding of IT topics and architectural principles Experience developing cost projections for IT solutions Familiarity with procurement processes and vendor management Ability to manage a complex portfolio of vendors and contracts Keen attention to detail Strong interpersonal and facilitation skills Excellent verbal and written communication skills Applied experience with design and systems thinking PREFERRED QUALIFICATION Experience with Systems Thinking and applied Architectural Design Understanding of process optimization and solution configuration Experience working with various solution providers Ability to organize and prioritize critical projects and contract renewals Interest in new, developing, and emerging technologies Willingness to work closely with service advisory groups and vendors to ensure ongoing solution satisfaction Experience translating business, technical, and security requirements into formal vendor requests for information, proposals, and quotes MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS Bachelor's Degree 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None This is an advanced level position, where qualified candidates will exhibit an expert level of knowledge and extensive experience fulfilling similar duties in previous positions. OOE IT values strong communicators, collaborators, and client focused individuals. We also look for individuals with the ability to persevere, to find the best solution and prove adaptable and accountable. As a new team member with OIT you will be expected to be a key contributor and collaborator within your field of expertise. OIT will provide an appropriate onboarding period, along with check-ins with peers and supervisors to address any needs or concerns, and an open door to the Executive Director, ensuring your success. BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. SALARY & BENEFITS The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $68,200.00 - $102,300.00. Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page. CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here. EEO IS THE LAW Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473. The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging in all its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports both broad and specific equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission. Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster PA State Labor Law Poster Penn State Policies Copyright Information Hotlines