Solutions Architect

GSD is seeking a highly skilled and client-focused Solutions Architect to join our growing team in Hanover Park, IL. This role serves as a key technical leader, bridging sales, engineering, and project delivery to design and implement innovative IT solutions.The ideal candidate is both strategic and hands-on—capable of translating business needs into scalable, secure, and well-documented technical solutions while supporting revenue growth and ensuring operational excellence.Key ResponsibilitiesPre-Sales & Sales EngineeringPartner with sales leadership to conduct technical discovery and client needs assessmentsDesign and present customized solutions across managed services, cloud, security, and infrastructureLead technical discussions in client meetings, proposals, and demonstrationsDevelop scopes of work, including assumptions, constraints, and pricing inputsSupport RFPs, RFIs, and technical evaluationsSolution Design & ArchitectureAssess client environments, infrastructure, workflows, and security postureDesign scalable, secure, and cost-effective solutions aligned with MSP best practicesArchitect solutions across on-premises, cloud, hybrid, networking, security, and disaster recovery environmentsValidate solutions against client objectives, compliance requirements, and internal standardsDocumentation & Knowledge ManagementCreate clear, comprehensive technical documentation, including:Solution designs and architecture diagramsStatements of Work (SOWs) – technical sectionsImplementation plans and runbooksConfiguration standards and assumptionsEnsure all solutions are properly documented and transitioned to support teamsMaintain documentation within internal systems for scalability and consistencyContribute to standard solution templates, service catalogs, and technical playbooksClient Engagement & AdvisoryServe as the primary technical advisor during discovery, implementation, and early lifecycle phasesCommunicate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholdersBuild and maintain strong client relationshipsIdentify opportunities for optimization, standardization, and future enhancementsContinuous Improvement & EnablementStay current on emerging technologies, cybersecurity trends, and vendor roadmapsMaintain and pursue relevant certificationsShare knowledge and best practices across teamsAssist in refining service offerings, onboarding processes, and delivery standardsQualificationsBachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field (or equivalent experience)10+ years of experience in IT engineering, solution architecture, or technical pre-sales within an MSP or IT services environmentProven experience coordinating or leading technical projectsTechnical ExpertiseMicrosoft 365 and AzureNetworking and firewall technologiesCybersecurity principles and compliance frameworksVirtualization (VMware and/or Hyper-V)Backup, disaster recovery, and business continuity solutionsStrong PBX/telephony experienceExperience creating client-facing technical documentation and project deliverablesExcellent communication, organization, and time-management skillsPreferred CertificationsMicrosoft Certified: Azure Solutions ArchitectAWS Certified Solutions ArchitectKey CompetenciesStrong attention to detail and organizational skillsConsultative, client-first mindsetOwnership and accountability for technical solutionsCollaborative and team-oriented approachAbility to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environmentProfessional, confident, and solution-driven demeanorWillingness to travel locally and perform onsite client assessments and site surveys