Application Architect

SHAZAM recognizes that financial institutions build better communities, and this drives our passion to strengthen financial institutions. We are a trusted partner to our valued customers providing answers, choice, and innovation with an impeccable level of customer service — a level unmatched in the industry. We’re a national company that offers a small-company feel, a cultural balance that’s hard to come by but very real at SHAZAM.

About the role

We are looking for an Application Architect to lead the design, direction, and evolution of key applications, processes, or systems across our diverse, multi-platform technology environment. Operating with minimal supervision, this role drives technical vision, mentors cross-functional teams, and ensures alignment between business needs and technology strategies. As a thought leader, you will explore innovative solutions, evaluate emerging technologies, and guide stakeholders through complex challenges. This is a critical role for shaping SHAZAM’s future technology landscape and ensuring delivery of high-quality, scalable solutions. This is a hybrid position based out of our Johnston, IA office; remote candidates may be considered.

Responsibilities

• Own the technical design and overall direction of assigned applications, processes, or systems within a broad technology stack that spans on-premise and cloud environments.
• Lead evaluation of systems and technologies, including development of prototypes and proof-of-concepts across platforms such as Java, .NET, and RPG.
• Identify and pursue opportunities for process and system improvements; research and explore innovative solutions.
• Translate improvement opportunities into practical, effective solutions that address both current and emerging issues.
• Collaborate with software engineers and other architects to define product structures and ensure alignment with business, development, testing, and deployment needs across IBM, HP, Solaris, and Microsoft systems.
• Remain actively engaged across the project lifecycle to provide continuity, leadership, and mentorship.
• Develop and maintain technical standards and documentation aligned with organizational best practices.
• Ensure adherence to SHAZAM’s enterprise architecture standards through coordination with architecture leadership.
• Partner with project managers to guide execution, influence scope, and ensure timely delivery of high-quality solutions.
• Help stakeholders understand the business and technical impacts of changes within assigned areas.

Requirements

• Strong technical or business expertise in at least one core application, process, or system, ideally with experience navigating multi-platform environments.
• Solid understanding of computer science fundamentals — algorithms, data structures, and software or architectural design patterns — applied across languages like Java, .NET, and RPG.
• Knowledge of banking operations, including regulatory requirements.
• Expertise in project management and familiarity with business drivers and KPIs.
• Working knowledge of infrastructure, data, middleware, client integration, and security across mixed operating systems (IBM, HP, Solaris, Microsoft) as well as hybrid cloud platforms such as Azure and AWS.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Teams.
• Excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to lead, mentor, influence stakeholders, and guide technical decision-making.
• Strong ability to assess issues, define solutions, and support long-term enterprise strategy.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Flexible spending and health savings accounts
• Life insurance and short- and long-term disability provided at no cost
• Time away from work — PTO, VTO, paid parental leave, and company holidays
• Educational assistance

Actual compensation is based on various factors, such as geographic location, experience, education, and/or skill level, and is finalized at the time of offer.