University of Canberra

SOLUTIONS ARCHITECT

$66490 - $74163pa  Ref No. 07/2115

The University of Canberra is seeking a skilled and enthusiastic person to fill the position of Solutions Architect in the Enterprise Portfolio Management Office (EPMO) within ICT Services. This is a new position responsible for developing technology solution options for new systems and services within an emerging Enterprise Architecture (EA) framework, and assists the Enterprise Architect with a broad range of EA related activities.

We are seeking a person that has a good grasp of current technologies, is a great communicator and enjoys working on challenging tasks in a highly dynamic environment.

This position will be appointed on a full-time continuing basis.

Closing Date: 19 October 2007

The University is an EO employer offering excellent conditions and benefits including generous superannuation.

For more information on this position and how to apply, go to our website at http://www.canberra.edu.au/jobs or call 02 6201 2607 (24 hours).

Please refer to the Information for Applicants and the Position Documentation (see below) before applying for this position.

When applying, you must print, fill out and attach this Cover Sheet to your application. Note that the cover sheet is in Adobe PDF format. If you do not already have one, a program to read PDF files is available free from Adobe. Applicants should address the Selection Criteria, and include the names, addresses and fax numbers of at least 3 referees. Applications should be addressed to:

The University is AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Position Description

Position Title: Solutions Architect

Division: Information and Communication Technology Services

Section: Enterprise Portfolio Management Office

Appointment Level: UC8

Reporting to: Director, Enterprise Portfolio Management (and Chief Architect)

Position Number: 50496

Vacancy Ref No: 07/2115

The Work Area:

The Enterprise Portfolio Management Office (EPMO) is responsible for the University’s Enterprise Architecture Framework and for Project Support. The enterprise architecture function encompasses the framework for ongoing development of a business driven architecture for business processes, information, applications and technology. The EPMO works in close collaboration with ICT managers and UC business “owners” to document and develop business driven architectures and processes; and to assist in their practical implementation and application.

Position Purpose:

To provide solution advice to clients at the stage of developing proposals for ICT and IM projects. The Solutions Architect is responsible for assisting clients and ICT staff with developing solution options for ICT and IM project proposals using best practice techniques and adopting a University-wide best practice approach to ICT procurement and vendor relationships.  The position assists the Enterprise Architect and keeps weel abreast of technology options by research and by liaising with vendors, other institutions and UC IT teams.

Duties:

Perform a range of functions including:

• Researching and staying current on technologies, trends, standards and vendor offerings to be able to provide informed advice on solutions options for UC.
• Maintaining vendor relationships with major UC ICT vendors and companies providing outsourced services.
• Maintaining and developing relationships with potential partner institutions with whom UC could implement or develop joint systems or solutions.
• Assisting with the development of RFIs, RFPs or Tenders for ICT based systems.
• Assisting with the development of contracts and vendor agreements.
• Promoting cost-effective and efficient standardised best practice based procurement practices.
• Working with clients, vendors, partners and IT staff on developing solution options within an Enterprise Architecture Framework.
• Developing training and awareness programs to promote UC Enterprise Architecture;
• Assisting with maintaining the Enterprise Portfolio Management Office website;
• Acting as a Project Manager on selected projects;
• Researching and staying current on technologies, trends, issues, standards and methodologies and identifying opportunities to improve systems and process by providing recommendations to management on beneficial changes to policies and practices;
• Providing strategic and operational advice to clients, colleagues and senior managers on solution options;
• Assisting with ongoing development and maintenance of an effective record keeping and planning systems pertaining to UC Enterprise Architecture. This could involve the implementation of software tools;
• Contributing to the ongoing development of the UC Enterprise Architecture Framework; and
• Undertaking other duties related to Enterprise Architecture and Portfolio Management as directed.

Essential Criteria:

It is required for the applicants to meet all of the essential criteria listed below:

1. Tertiary qualifications a related field with relevant work experience, or equivalent extensive work experience;  
2. Proven skills and experience in Systems Analysis;
3. Proven skills in Project Management;
4. Creative planning and problem solving skills as applied to developing solution options that meet defined business requirement with a focus on quality outcomes in a limited resource environment;
5. Extensive practical knowledge of current standards, technologies, methodologies and best practice related to developing technology supported solutions to business problems;
6. Professional capability to conceptualise develop and review systems, services, guidelines and policies at a corporate level, utilising a collaborative approach;
7. High level communication skills, both written and oral and proven ability to communicate with, and liaise between, clients, vendors and technical staff; and
8. Demonstrated understanding of, and commitment to implementation of equity and workplace health and safety principles.

Desirable Criteria:

1. Experience working in a Project or Portfolio Management Office;
2. Experience with Enterprise Architecture;
3. Understanding of corporate needs in Higher Education;
4. Professional qualification in a related field.

For further information about the position contact Katarina Christenson on (02) 6201 5545. The University’s cover sheet must accompany applications. Please do NOT send by fax or email.