Architect : NiSource

Architect Location: hybrid onsite in Columbus, Ohio 2-3 days a week Duration: 12 Months Visa: USC, GC, GC-EAD Interview: Phone/SkypeQualifications: Client is looking for Network Architect skillset.Bachelor's Degree in a technical (Computer Science, Engineering or related discipline) or business field requiredTotal years experience: Lead Architect: 7+; Architect: 5+ years experience as an Enterprise Architect: Lead Architect: 3+ years; Architect: 2+ years1+ years of experience in project managementAbility to work effectively in an outsourced IT environmentExperience with and knowledge of legacy and new computing architecturesResponsibilities:The Architect's / Lead Architect's primary responsibility and accountability is to provide architecture leadership for the current and future NiSource technology environment within a technology domain. This includes working with business leaders and service providers to develop and implement enterprise architecture strategies, as well as developing methodologies and processes to ensure compliance to those strategies. The Lead Architect is also responsible to develop and maintain Technology Roadmaps aligned with approved IT Investments and approved by IT Leadership.Effective Technology portfolio management processes and tools used as a key input into IT investment decisions and in developing solution alternatives to meet business needsProactive technology roadmaps and plans for future needs, based on anticipated business goals and industry directionProject architecture reviews conducted in a timely manner with appropriate level of quality (Lead Architect)Published up-to-date and adhered to architecture standards, frameworks, patterns and proceduresReduced cost of IT via effective reuse, processes and adherence to standardsPrincipal Duties and ResponsibilitiesAnalyze enterprise business drivers to develop enterprise architecture strategies and plansResearch technology industry and market trends for a domainDevelop strategies and roadmaps to consolidate and protect IT assetsIdentify opportunities to invest in emerging technologiesCollaborate closely with peer Architects and IT staff to drive NiSource objectivesDevelop standards and reference architectures for the domainReview design artifacts for compliance with architecture directionDevelop and maintain product standards in assigned domainsDrive technology portfolio management disciplineIdentify, champion and direct technology roadmap initiativesEstablish best practices and standards and track adoption of standardsEstablish processes for ongoing identification and management of technology risksProvide enterprise architecture consulting as needed on all major initiatives as assignedRecommend proactive courses of action to maintain cost effectiveness and competitivenessCommunicate clearly and effectively with business and IT managementRemain continuously aware of technology trends and best practices, and incorporate this knowledge into architecture strategy and plansUse influence and negotiation skills to gain consensus for recommendations