Presales Solutions Architect - Platforms Specialist

About Us

Since 1989, SHI International Corp. has empowered organizations to transform the world through cutting-edge technology. We are proud to be a $16 billion global provider of IT solutions and services, with over 17,000 organizations relying on our concierge approach to navigate their IT challenges. Our employees, numbering over 7,000, are the core of our success. Joining our team means embracing:

• A commitment to diversity, as the largest minority- and woman-owned enterprise in the U.S.
• Opportunities for continuous professional growth and leadership development.
• Comprehensive health, wellness, and financial benefits to ensure peace of mind for you and your family.
• Access to world-class facilities and the technology you need to excel, whether in our offices or remote.

Job Summary

The Presales Solutions Architect - Platforms Specialist will serve as a customer-facing expert in platform architecture, applying a consultative approach to container, automation, and platform engineering initiatives. This role requires a comprehensive understanding of modern application platforms, DevOps practices, and ecosystem technologies that drive successful business outcomes. The Solutions Architect will also innovate and deliver new offerings tailored to customer needs.

This remote role may require travel to our office in Austin, Texas, based on business needs and guidance from SHI management.

Role Description

• Collaborate with key stakeholders within client organizations, such as CIOs, CTOs, and development teams, to enhance customer relationships and achieve their objectives.
• Lead technical discussions during presales engagements, overseeing the technical strategy and execution throughout the sales cycle.
• Design and present hybrid cloud solutions that span on-premises and hybrid environments, utilizing OEM and third-party technologies aligned with customer goals.
• Gain deep familiarity with the company’s offerings by engaging in training and self-study, focusing on containerization, automation, and platform architecture.
• Train sales teams on hybrid cloud solutions and related technologies through individual and group sessions.
• Stay abreast of market trends and technological advancements through continuous education and exploration.
• Create collateral, workshops, and materials to support sales efforts.
• Develop cases within the SHI lab for enhanced sales support.

Key Competencies

• Problem-Solving: Proactively identify and own complex problem-solving efforts and collaborate with others to facilitate successful outcomes.
• Communication: Articulate complex ideas to diverse audiences, fostering effective communication and mentorship.
• Adaptability: Guide teams through change and promote a culture open to new directions.
• Leadership: Take ownership of team initiatives, working collaboratively in the decision-making process.
• Teamwork: Build effective teams, ensuring smooth communication among members.
• Self-Motivation: Drive personal and professional initiatives, collaborating when necessary for results.

Required Skills

• Proven experience in designing and architecting cloud-native platforms and container-based environments (e.g. Kubernetes, OpenShift, Rancher).
• Strong understanding of DevOps practices and Day2 operations, including CI/CD, observability, and automation.
• Extensive knowledge of Hybrid Cloud technologies and their value propositions for customers.
• Familiarity with cloud-native observability and security best practices.
• Excellent communication skills, capable of engaging technical and non-technical audiences.
• Strong documentation abilities, including system and infrastructure diagrams.
• Passion for technology and staying updated on industry trends.

Other Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 5 years in a technical role, with at least 3 years in presales architecture.
• Willingness to travel up to 20% for client meetings and events.
• Flexibility to work extended hours for special projects.

Preferred Certifications

• Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA), Certified Kubernetes Application Developer (CKAD), or relevant Linux & CNCF certifications.
• Red Hat Certified OpenShift Architect.
• Additional professional certifications in observability, GitOps, automation, and infrastructure.

The estimated annual pay range for this position is $180,000 - $250,000, including base salary and bonuses. Compensation is based on experience and market location. Benefits include medical, vision, dental, 401K, and flexible spending. SHI is an Equal Opportunity Employer.