Principal Systems Architect

Open Text Corporation•Waterloo, ON

About The Position

This role sits at the heart of the Data Analytics function, shaping the solution architecture that supports analytics, operational data management, master data management, and selected data migration initiatives. As the organisation rationalises a diverse data landscape into a simplified, modern platform, you will help design and guide the transition to a metadata‑driven architecture built on Microsoft Fabric. Working closely with peers across the data team, you will apply strong architectural principles to improve consistency, scalability, and delivery effectiveness. This role focuses on the data solutions that enable the Analytics team to deliver value, rather than owning a broader enterprise‑wide data architecture mandate.

Requirements

Strong knowledge of Microsoft Fabric or comparable modern data platforms, with hands‑on experience designing analytical data solutions.
Proven experience implementing metadata‑driven architectures, including the use of dynamic SQL and reusable design patterns.
A deep technical background across data warehousing, analytics, master data management, and data integration.
The ability to simplify, standardise, and clearly communicate complex technical concepts and architectural decisions.
Comfort operating in fast‑paced, evolving environments, setting direction with incomplete information and delivering progress with constrained resources.
Practical experience across data migration, data integration technologies, database platforms, and business intelligence or reporting tools.
Demonstrated capability creating, reviewing, and governing detailed solution architectures and design documentation.
Strong problem‑solving skills with a pragmatic, delivery‑focused mindset; experience with project leadership or technical team guidance is an advantage.

Responsibilities

Own the overall design of the data solution architecture, maintaining a clear and current architectural blueprint aligned to enterprise standards.
Act as the technical and architectural lead for both existing and new data solutions, ensuring designs are cohesive, scalable, and additive to the overall platform.
Define, promote, and monitor best practices for the use of current and strategic data technologies across development and production environments.
Translate business and analytical requirements into clear functional designs, technical specifications, and solution architecture documentation.
Provide architectural oversight across the full lifecycle, supporting successful transition of proven capabilities into production.
Assess proposed changes, enhancements, and new technologies, ensuring alignment with the organisation’s Enterprise Architecture strategy.
Act as the primary interface between the Data Analytics team and the Enterprise Architecture function.
Research, evaluate, and recommend technologies, platforms, and tools, supporting informed decisions on adoption, standardisation, and retirement.