ABOUT THE ALLIANCE
The Digital Research Alliance of Canada (the Alliance) serves Canadian researchers, with the objective of advancing Canada’s position as a leader in the knowledge economy on the international stage. By integrating, championing, and funding the infrastructure and activities required for advanced research computing (ARC), research data management (RDM), and research software (RS), we provide the platform for the research community to access tools and services faster than ever before.
We have an ambitious mandate — to transform how research across all academic disciplines is organized, managed, stored, and used. We work with other ecosystem partners and stakeholders across the country to help provide Canadian researchers with the support they need for leading-edge research excellence, research, innovation, and advancement across all disciplines.
POSITION OVERVIEW
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead Technical Architect to oversee the review and optimization of our Digital Research Infrastructure (DRI). As the Lead Technical Architect, you will play a pivotal role in advancing the future architectural design to support a long-term vision, proposing alternative options, and providing strategic recommendations to enhance our Advanced Research Computing centers, storage solutions, and software capabilities.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Infrastructure Review and Optimization: Lead the review and optimization efforts of our Digital Research Infrastructure, including Advanced Research Computing centers, storage solutions, and software capabilities.
- Architectural Design: Develop and refine architectural designs to support the long-term vision of the organization, ensuring scalability, reliability, and efficiency of the DRI.
- Alternative Options: Explore and propose alternative options for infrastructure design and implementation, considering factors such as cost-effectiveness, performance, and compatibility with organizational goals.
- Strategic Recommendations: Provide strategic recommendations to senior leadership based on thorough analysis and evaluation of existing infrastructure and emerging technologies.
- Collaboration: Collaborate with internal stakeholders, including IT teams, research groups, and senior management, to understand requirements, prioritize initiatives, and align technical solutions with business objectives.
- Project Leadership: Lead and mentor technical teams in the implementation of architectural changes and infrastructure enhancements, ensuring adherence to best practices and industry standards.
- Continuous Improvement: Stay abreast of industry trends and emerging technologies in digital research infrastructure, contributing to the continuous improvement of our technical capabilities and infrastructure.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
- 8+ years of experience in technical architecture, infrastructure design, and optimization, with a focus on digital research infrastructure or similar environments.
- Proven track record of leading complex technical projects from conception to implementation, with an emphasis on scalability, reliability, and efficiency.
- In-depth knowledge of advanced research computing technologies, including high-performance computing (HPC) systems, parallel file systems, and distributed storage solutions.
- Proficiency in architectural modeling tools and techniques, with experience in developing and documenting architectural designs and specifications.
- Strong understanding of software development methodologies, DevOps practices, and cloud computing platforms.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to assess complex technical challenges and propose innovative solutions.
- Strategic mindset with the ability to analyze market trends, evaluate emerging technologies, and make strategic recommendations to senior leadership.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams and communicate technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
- Experience in mentoring and coaching technical teams, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development.
- Certifications in relevant areas such as IT architecture, cloud computing, or project management are considered an asset.
Please apply here: Lead Technical Architect (secondment opportunity)
The Alliance recognizes that challenges remain in achieving the full participation of equity-seeking groups (including women, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible minority/ racialized groups, and members of LGBTQ2+) in research careers and is committed to identifying and eliminating barriers that may exist within its own hiring process, programs, and practices.