Solutions Architect

The Solutions Architect at Nakupuna Consulting is responsible for leading a team of specialists to deliver consistent software products while acting as a member of the Portfolio Operations team for the Integrated Personnel and Pay System – Army (IPPS-A). They write and maintain the ART Backlog, identify user stories, and provide specialized training in PeopleSoft's various areas, ensuring teams meet technical standards and supporting design needs.

To qualify for the Solutions Architect position at Nakupuna Consulting, candidates should have a Bachelor's degree and at least six years of experience within the federal government, Department of Defense, Army, or private sectors. Certifications in PeopleSoft and Agile or SAFe for Teams are preferred, along with a current Secret clearance, as the role requires U.S. citizenship.

At Nakupuna Consulting, collaboration is a critical aspect of the Solutions Architect role. The Solutions Architect leads various Agile teams and works closely with the Portfolio Team to maintain the ART Backlog. Regular communication and meetings with upper management ensure alignment on project goals and facilitate problem-solving in a supportive team environment.

The Solutions Architect at Nakupuna Consulting enjoys a hybrid work environment, primarily located in Arlington, Virginia. The role involves on-site collaboration two days a week, with options for remote work, offering a balanced approach to teamwork and individual productivity. Occasional travel may also be required depending on project needs.

The Solutions Architect position at Nakupuna Consulting provides ample growth opportunities. By serving as a mentor to junior employees and taking on complex responsibilities, the Solutions Architect can develop leadership skills and expand their technical expertise. Additionally, participation in innovative projects allows for continuous professional development.

When answering this question, emphasize specific projects where you utilized your PeopleSoft expertise. Highlight your role in architecture design, major challenges you overcame, and how your solutions improved system performance or team efficiency. Providing detailed examples shows your depth of knowledge and practical application.

Discuss your multi-step approach to problem-solving, which includes gathering data, analyzing the root cause, and collaborating with team members for diverse insights. Mention any frameworks or methodologies you apply, such as Agile principles, to facilitate efficient resolution and continuous improvement.

When replying, mention specific mentorship practices such as one-on-one coaching, offering constructive feedback, or facilitating training sessions. Emphasizing your commitment to developing talent within your team reflects your leadership qualities and dedication to team success.

To ensure technical standards are met, discuss your process for establishing guidelines, reviewing designs, and conducting regular assessments. Highlight your experience in leading code reviews or design discussions that prioritize quality and adherence to best practices in software development.

Share a specific example where you managed the ART Backlog, describing how you prioritized tasks, coordinated with Agile teams, or ensured that user stories were clear and actionable. Detailing your approach to backlog maintenance shows a thorough understanding of Agile methodologies.

Emphasize the importance of open communication, regular feedback loops, and fostering a culture of trust and respect. Discuss any experiences you have with team-building activities or workshops that have improved collaboration among team members.

When asked this, explain your experience with understanding user requirements and mapping them to PeopleSoft capabilities. Describe your approach to working with stakeholders to gather insights and your methods for documenting findings to ensure clarity in configurations.

Encourage candidates to detail their experience drafting Epic and Feature stories by discussing the process of identifying needs, collaborating with stakeholders, and iterating on drafts based on feedback. Providing examples can give interviewers a clear picture of their proficiency.

Candidates should express their commitment to continuous learning through various channels like attending conferences, participating in relevant workshops, and following thought leaders in the PeopleSoft community. This showcases a proactive approach to professional growth.

In your response, describe how strong communication fosters collaboration, aids in conveying complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders, and ensures alignment among teams. Sharing examples of how effective communication has resolved misunderstandings can enhance your answer.