Enterprise Software Architect

We are seeking a hands-on Enterprise Software Architect to design, guide, and support software solutions that enable and integrate manufacturing operations. This role is ideal for a technically strong architect who enjoys working close to the business, writing and reviewing code, and collaborating directly with engineers, operations, and manufacturing stakeholders.
The Enterprise Software Architect will focus on Java-based applications, system integrations, and practical, maintainable architectures that support ERP systems, shop-floor technologies, reporting, and automation initiatives.

Key Responsibilities
•    Design and maintain practical, scalable software architectures that support manufacturing and operational systems
•    Serve as both architect and senior technical contributor, including hands-on Java development 
•    Define and document architecture standards, integration patterns, and development guidelines
•    Partner with manufacturing, operations, and IT teams to translate business needs into technical solutions
•    Lead the design of system integrations between ERP, WMS, MES, EDI, and custom applications[ED1.1]
•    Review application designs and code to ensure quality, performance, and maintainability
•    Ensure systems meet operational requirements such as availability, reliability, and data integrity
•    Support modernization efforts, including refactoring legacy systems and introducing newer architectures where appropriate
•    Evaluate third-party software, tools, and vendors with a focus on value, simplicity, and long-term supportability

Required Qualifications
•    Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or equivalent practical experience
•    6+ years of professional software development experience
•    Strong Java-based programming expertise (Java 8+), including object-oriented design and best practices
•    Solid understanding of REST APIs, batch processing, and integration-heavy systems
•    Experience working with relational databases (SQL Server, Progress, PostgreSQL, etc.)
•    Strong understanding of software design principles, patterns, and maintainable architecture
•    Comfortable working in a smaller team environment where roles may overlap
•    Strong communication skills and ability to work directly with non-technical stakeholders

Preferred Qualifications
•    Experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment
•    Exposure to ERP systems (e.g., QAD, or similar)
•    Experience integrating with shop floor systems, WMS, MES, EDI, or legacy platforms
•    Familiarity with basic cloud or hybrid architectures (Azure, AWS, or on prem)
•    Understanding of DevOps concepts, CI/CD pipelines, and automated deployments
•    Experience supporting or modernizing long-lived, business-critical systems

Soft Skills & Fit
•    Practical and solution-oriented mindset
•    Comfortable balancing long-term architecture with immediate business needs
•    Self-directed and adaptable in a lean IT environment
•    Able to explain technical concepts in clear, business-focused terms
•    Willing to mentor developers and set technical direction through example

Why This Role
•    Direct impact on manufacturing operations and business outcomes
•    Opportunity to shape systems without heavy bureaucracy
•    Close collaboration with leadership and operational teams
•    Stable, long-term systems with meaningful modernization opportunities