Enterprise Application Architect

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas•Topeka, KS

42d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Enterprise Application Architect is a senior-level role responsible for the design, development, and approval of IT system and application architectures to ensure clean integration with BCBSKS's enterprise technical and data environments. This role establishes and governs application architecture standards, best practices, and strategies that align with BCBSKS's business objectives, Azure-first approach, and evolving digital transformation initiatives. This position is eligible to work remotely, hybrid or onsite in accordance with our Telecommuting Policy. Applicants must reside in Kansas or Missouri or be willing to relocate as a condition of employment. Are you ready to make a difference? Choose to work for one of the most trusted companies in Kansas. Why Join Us? Family Comes First: Total rewards package that promotes the idea of family first for all employees. Dynamic Work Environment: Collaborate with a team of passionate and driven individuals. Trust: Work for one of the most trusted companies in Kansas Stability: 80 years of commitment, compassion and community Compensation $125,600 - $157,000 Grade IT&S exempt 18 Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas offers excellent competitive compensation with the goal of retaining and growing talented team members. The salary range for this role is a good faith estimate, it is estimated based on what a successful candidate might be paid. All offers presented to candidates are carefully reviewed to ensure fair, equitable pay by offering competitive salaries that align with the individual's skills, education, experience, and training. The range may vary above or below the stated amounts.

Requirements

Demonstrated ability to define, govern, and evolve enterprise application architectures, aligning technology strategies with organizational goals and ensuring architectural coherence across business domains.
Deep proficiency in Microsoft Azure services (App Services, AKS, Functions, API Management, Logic Apps, DevOps) and experience modernizing applications using microservices, containerization, and event-driven, API-first designs.
Proven expertise in designing secure, scalable APIs and integrations using RESTful patterns, message queues, and tools such as Azure Service Bus, Event Hubs, or MuleSoft, ensuring seamless interoperability across enterprise systems.
Strong understanding of enterprise data integration, cloud data platforms (Azure Synapse, Databricks, data lakes), and governance models that enable data-driven insights and analytics at scale.
Comprehensive knowledge of IAM, OAuth2/SAML, data privacy, and regulatory compliance (e.g., HIPAA), with the ability to design secure architectures and embed security by design across the SDLC.
Familiarity with AI/ML services (e.g., Azure OpenAI, Cognitive Services) and understanding of responsible AI principles and governance frameworks to guide ethical and compliant adoption of emerging technologies.
Experience with CI/CD pipelines, IaC (Terraform/Bicep), automated testing, and version control (GitHub/Azure Repos), driving efficiency, repeatability, and quality in solution delivery.
Proven track record leading cross-functional teams, mentoring developers and solution architects, and fostering a collaborative culture that balances innovation with architectural discipline.
Exceptional ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear, actionable insights for business and executive stakeholders; skilled at building consensus and influencing architectural decisions.
Strategic thinker committed to staying current with emerging technologies, trends in AI and cloud computing, and evolving enterprise architecture methodologies (e.g., TOGAF, ArchiMate) to drive continuous modernization and business value.
High school diploma required. Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or a related technical field preferred.
Minimum of 8 years progressive IT experience with 5 years' experience in an architectural role performing design, development, and support of enterprise systems required.

Nice To Haves

Certifications in cloud architecture or enterprise design or related fields (i.e., Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert, AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Professional) or equivalent preferred.
Experience with enterprise architecture methodologies and frameworks, including TOGAF, Zachman, or ArchiMate preferred.

Responsibilities

Design, develop, and approve application architectures that integrate cleanly into BCBSKS's enterprise technical and data architecture.
Create, document, and maintain application architecture standards, development best practices, and coding guidelines.
Provide technical leadership, mentoring, and consulting for application development teams.
Participate in architectural reviews, design sessions, and technology evaluations to guide project teams.
Research and evaluate application development tools, frameworks, and emerging technologies for potential adoption.
Ensure selected technologies align with business objectives, security policies, and enterprise standards.
Provide recommendations for modernization, integration, and automation opportunities-including AI enablement and responsible adoption.
Analyze business requirements and translate them into scalable, secure, and maintainable application architectures.
Partner with the AI Governance Committee and technical teams to identify and enable AI and automation opportunities within the application portfolio.