Lead Solutions Architect

Join AArete as a Lead Solutions Architect! At AArete, we redefine consulting firm culture by prioritizing excellence, innovation, and the well-being of our team. As a prominent management and technology consulting firm with a global presence, our mission is anchored in the Greek concept of "Arete," signifying excellence. We believe that our success hinges on nurturing and empowering our people. Our holistic "Culture of Care" encompasses robust career development, competitive life and wellness benefits, and a deep commitment to personal fulfillment. The Role We are actively seeking a Lead Solutions Architect to pioneer the design and implementation of cutting-edge, scalable technology solutions across various domains, including Digital Transformation, Data, Cloud, and DevOps. This individual will engage directly with clients, collaborate with delivery teams, and partner with leadership to architect modern data and digital platforms while ensuring efficient project execution. What You Will Do Architect and usher in modern data platforms leveraging technologies like Snowflake, Databricks, Airflow, and Spark. Design and enhance data pipelines, analytics solutions, and business intelligence tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau, Looker). Lead initiatives in AI/ML and data governance across diverse industries. Create and enact cloud-native architectures (AWS, Azure) that drive digital transformation. Design and deploy automation frameworks and business applications tailored to client needs. Contribute to cloud migration strategies, enterprise modernization, and DevOps automation (CI/CD, infrastructure as code). Collaborate closely with clients to translate their business needs into innovative technical solutions. Work alongside Managing Directors and Directors to align technology initiatives with overarching business objectives. Support delivery teams throughout project lifecycles to guarantee successful implementations. Partner with business development teams to unearth technology prospects, shape solutions, and assist in proposal crafting. Contribute to Statements of Work (SOWs), technical documentation, and engaging client presentations. Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry best practices to uphold our standard of excellence. Undertake additional responsibilities as assigned. Requirements 10+ years of experience in solution architecture, technology consulting, or systems integration roles. Strong hands-on expertise with at least one major cloud platform (AWS, Azure, or GCP). Deep technical knowledge in data engineering, data modeling, and the modern data stack. Familiarity with DevOps practices and tools (e.g., GitHub Actions, Jenkins, Terraform). Proven track record in estimating, scoping, and spearheading complex technical projects. Strong ability to engage with clients, facilitate workshops, and influence senior stakeholders. Exceptional verbal and written communication skills. Willingness to engage in direct client interactions, which may involve travel to client sites. Must have legal authorization to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship. Preferred Qualifications Technical certifications in relevant platforms or disciplines. Insight into healthcare-specific regulations and data standards (e.g., HIPAA, HL7). Familiarity with additional data visualization tools or cloud-based data platforms. Based in Chicago, IL, with flexibility to work from our Chicago office as required. Compensation & Benefits Flexible PTO, monthly half-day refuels, volunteer time off, and 10 paid holidays. Enjoy our "Own Your Day" flexible work policy. Competitive employer-paid benefits including Medical, Dental, Vision, and 401K Match. Generous paid parental leave options. Employer-paid Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability. Participate in our charitable contribution matching program. Incentive opportunities through new client commissions and referral bonuses. Benefit from a bike share discount program. The estimated base salary for this role ranges from $175,000 to $210,000. In addition, eligible individuals may receive an annual discretionary bonus. This range constitutes part of a comprehensive compensation package combined with our majority employer-paid benefits and incentive pay for qualifying positions. AArete welcomes applications until the position is filled, and the job posting will be taken down once the role is no longer available. We're on a mission to put humanity at the center of our initiatives. Our firm specializes in strategic profitability enhancement, digital transformations, and change management for clients across various sectors. Our solutions are driven by a digital-first mindset, data intelligence, and a commitment to delivering impactful change, actionable insights, and measurable results. Our success is built upon the dedication of our people and the guiding principles of Excellence, Passion, Loyalty to Clients, Stewardship, Family, Community, Sustainability, and Inclusion. AArete has been honored as a leader in consultancy, recognized by notable organizations such as Forbes and Consulting Magazine. We pride ourselves on being an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. #LI-DNI