Solution Architect - Oracle Utilities Application Framework - US/Canada

About Origin

Origin partners with modernizing utilities to deploy and operate key business systems. Origin offers software, services, and managed solutions. We are steadfast in delivering the kind of trusted collaboration that utilities need and are proven to navigate industry change smoothly and efficiently. Check out Origin’s work, client success, culture, and career opportunities. We are on LinkedIn here. You might also be interested in learning about our product development and our managed solutions. 

About the Role

The Solution Architect plays a crucial role in supporting Origin’s initiatives by deploying and operating key business systems for modernizing utilities. This individual is a team leader who collaborates with multiple levels of client management and subject matter experts to craft cross-platform solutions that solve critical business needs across the meter-to-cash lifecycle. They provide technical and functional guidance to deliver clear specifications of the customer’s business requirements and data supported solutions. They also ensure the successful implementation of scalable and cost-effective solutions that align with clients' short- and long-term goals while relaying value added benefits and associated Return on Investment (ROI). 

Solution and Business Domain Experience & Duties

1. Apply professional expertise in utilities, enterprise systems, and Oracle Utilities Application Framework (OUAF) to develop innovative solutions.
2. Manage the scope of functional and solutions architecture, minimizing risks for both clients and Origin.
3. Lead and guide clients through multiple design options to develop cohesive solutions aligned with industry best practices.
4. Analyze software requirements across ERP and CIS domains, defining solution parameters and specifications.
5. Stay informed on current technologies and industry trends to incorporate them effectively into Origin’s solutions.
6. Collaborate with Origin product development teams on new product ideas, leveraging insights gained from client engagements.

Customer Focus

1. Facilitate project kickoffs and design workshops, guiding stakeholders toward agreement on design proposals.
2. Build strong relationships with clients by addressing business drivers and challenges with platform-spanning solutions.
3. Manage client expectations, ensuring systems meet budget and time constraints while achieving project goals.
4. Identify additional service opportunities for new or existing clients, working with account teams to develop proposals.
5. Ensure consistent communication with clients to preempt and resolve any issues that could impact engagement success.

Sales and Business Development

1. Collaborate with account teams to identify potential solutions and pull-through opportunities.
2. Assess client challenges and provide proposals for additional Origin services.
3. Contribute to bids and proposals by developing content that aligns with Origin’s standards.
4. Present solutions to prospective clients with senior management, demonstrating business value and ROI.

Financial Accountability

1. Manage scope changes and communicate impacts to relevant team members and clients.
2. Work with project leads to ensure effective resource allocation, managing burn rates, costs, and profitability.
3. Monitor and contribute to project financials by aligning delivery with P&L goals.

Mentoring Responsibilities

1. Mentor junior team members and guide their professional growth through structured plans.
2. Lead multi-tiered workstreams as part of large-scale, multi-product implementations.
3. Identify and refer top talent for recruitment, supporting hiring decisions through interviews and evaluations.

Competencies

1. Superior written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders.
2. Expertise in managing change, system modernization, and transformation efforts.
3. Proven ability to manage the entire Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC).
4. Experience facilitating design workshops and building consensus across diverse stakeholder groups.

Solution and Business Domain Experience

1. 8+ years of experience in utilities, with hands-on expertise in Oracle Utilities solutions (CC&B, C2M, CCS).
2. In-depth understanding of Customer Information Systems (CIS) and meter-to-cash processes.
3. Experience integrating Oracle Utilities products with other enterprise systems, such as Field Work Management and Customer Self-Service portals.
4. Familiarity with OUAF design and development principles, including integration with ERP and CIS platforms.

Supervisory Skills

1. Advanced experience in mentoring junior staff and managing project teams.
2. Ability to lead complex, multi-product implementations with multiple workstreams.

Education and/or Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, IT, or related fields.

Certificates, Licenses, or Registrations

Oracle Utilities Implementation Certification(s) preferred but not required.

Other Qualifications

Must be available for at least 25% travel.