Solutions Architect Location: West Des Moines, IA (Mostly Off-Site) Employment Type: Full-Time ABOUT US: EquiTrust Life Insurance Company is a national carrier of competitive, client-friendly annuity products sold through a variety of distribution channels, including more than 20,000 independent agents and independent marketing organizations (IMOs). Since 2003, we have provided exceptional customer service to our clients by operating with integrity and passion. Our success is driven by a collaborative and inclusive workforce that values diverse perspectives, innovation, and continuous improvement. EquiTrust sells products nationwide and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with operations in West Des Moines, Iowa. HOW YOU’LL CONTRIBUTE: As a Solutions Architect, you will play a key role in shaping the technology solutions that support EquiTrust's business strategy and long-term growth. You will lead the design and implementation of scalable, secure, and reliable enterprise applications while partnering with business leaders, development teams, and technology stakeholders to drive innovation and modernization. We are looking for a collaborative and forward-thinking technology professional who enjoys solving complex challenges, guiding technical teams, and translating business needs into effective technology solutions. WHAT YOU’LL DO: Develop and maintain enterprise software architecture roadmaps aligned with business objectives and technology strategies. Design and document scalable, secure, and integrated solutions that support complex business applications and enterprise systems. Partner with business and IT leaders to evaluate emerging technologies, development frameworks, and architectural approaches. Provide technical leadership throughout the software development lifecycle, guiding development teams and ensuring alignment with architecture standards. Establish and promote software development standards, design patterns, security practices, and architectural best practices. Lead architecture reviews and provide technical oversight to support successful project delivery and system integration. Evaluate existing application environments to identify opportunities for modernization, optimization, and improved interoperability. Serve as a technical escalation resource for complex application development and architecture challenges. Collaborate with DevOps teams to support CI/CD pipelines, automation, and software delivery improvements. Partner with external vendors and technology providers to integrate third-party solutions and support enterprise technology initiatives. WHAT YOU’LL BRING: Education: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related field required. Experience: Minimum of 8 years of experience in software development, application architecture, or related systems development. Extensive experience developing enterprise applications using Java or C#, including object-oriented programming principles. Experience with Visual Studio, stored procedures, source control, and software development tools. Experience with web development, ASP.NET, IIS, SQL, MVC, or related enterprise application technologies. Experience designing and supporting complex application integrations and enterprise software solutions. Experience within insurance or financial services is a plus. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Advanced knowledge of software architecture, application design, integration strategies, and enterprise technology standards. Strong proficiency in multiple programming languages and frameworks, including Java, C#, Python, JavaScript, Spring, .NET, Node.js, or similar technologies. Strong understanding of the software development lifecycle (SDLC), object-oriented programming, and modern software engineering practices. Experience with relational and non-relational databases, SQL development, and query optimization. Knowledge of cloud platforms such as Microsoft Azure, AWS, or Google Cloud Platform and cloud application deployment practices. Advanced experience with source control, branching strategies, CI/CD pipelines, and DevOps practices. Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills with the ability to evaluate complex technical challenges and recommend effective solutions. Ability to translate business requirements into scalable technical solutions while balancing security, performance, risk, and maintainability. Excellent communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills with the ability to explain technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences. Strong technical leadership and collaboration skills with the ability to influence architectural decisions and guide development teams. Commitment to continuous learning, innovation, and improving enterprise technology capabilities. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Ability to work at a computer for extended periods, including frequent use of a keyboard and monitor. Occasional standing, walking, bending, reaching, and lifting up to 20 pounds. Ability to communicate effectively in a professional work environment. Occasional after-hours support may be required to support production systems and critical technology initiatives. WHERE YOU’LL WORK: Location: West Des Moines, IA (Mostly Off-Site) Travel: Infrequent travel (less than 5%) EquiTrust is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where employees feel respected, valued, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences and encourage candidates to apply even if they do not meet every preferred qualification listed.