Solutions Architect

Houston Zoo • Houston, TX

1d

About The Position

The Solutions Architect provides strategic leadership for the design, integration, and governance of enterprise-wide technology solutions that drive organizational excellence and mission success. This role oversees the architecture of systems, data, and infrastructure to ensure alignment with organizational strategy, operational efficiency, and compliance with regulatory standards. The Solutions Architect acts as the bridge between business and technology, translating complex needs into scalable, secure, and innovative solutions that support the organization’s long-term digital strategy. Our Mission: Houston Zoo connects communities with animals, inspiring action to save wildlife. Our Vision: Houston Zoo will be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree (B.A.) from four-year college or university in Computer Science, Information Systems, or related field.
• Minimum of ten (10) years progressive technology leadership experience, including at least 5 years in enterprise or solutions architecture.
• Technical certification(s) in at least one relevant technical domain (ex. CCNP, Project+, Security+, VMware-VCP. etc.)
• Familiarity with networking concepts, technologies and protocols.
• Proven success in designing and implementing integrated technology ecosystems (e.g., Microsoft 365, Azure, Salesforce, or similar).
• Strong knowledge of system integration, data management, and cybersecurity frameworks.
• Demonstrated success leading digital transformation or modernization initiatives.
• Strong background in strategic planning, budgeting, and aligning technology with organizational goals.
• Demonstrated experience with digital transformation, cloud migration, data governance, and system integration.

Responsibilities

• Leads the enterprise solution architecture strategy, integrating applications, infrastructure, and data systems to align with organizational goals.
• Oversees data governance and analytics platforms, ensuring data quality, accessibility, and security across departments.
• Directs system integration projects across HRIS, CRM, ERP, and ticketing platforms to ensure interoperability and seamless user experience.
• Partners with IT security to maintain compliance with cybersecurity, data privacy, and accessibility standards.
• Drives innovation initiatives, identifying and piloting emerging technologies that enhance staff efficiency and guest experience.
• Establishes and enforces enterprise technology standards, governance processes, and architecture documentation.
• Manages vendor relationships, contract negotiations, and technology procurement with a focus on cost optimization and sustainability.
• Develops annual technology budgets and track project costs, timelines, and ROI.
• Partners with senior leaders across the Zoo to align technology initiatives with strategic goals, operations, and conservation outcomes.
• Contributes to saving animals in the wild through reduction of waste, water and energy use and inspiring guests and staff to take wildlife protecting actions.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Medical and Prescription Drug
• Vision
• Dental
• Basic Life AD&D (100% Employer Paid)
• Short Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
• Long Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
• Supplemental Life
• Flexible Spending Account / Health Savings Account
• 401k, with employer match
• Free Zoo Membership
• Free Guest Passes
• Discounts on Food, Merchandise, Attractions, Admission and Programs
• Free parking

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees