Azure Data and AI Solution Architect

Kforce has a client that is seeking a Microsoft Azure Data and AI Solution Architect in Tampa, FL. Essential Functions:

• Designs and delivers Azure-based data and AI solutions aligned to business needs
• Leads development of end-to-end Azure data and AI ecosystems
• Partners with cross-functional teams (data engineering, data science, IT, business) to implement scalable cloud architectures
• Drives adoption of best practices across data, AI, governance, and cloud operations

Key Responsibilities: Azure Data & AI Ecosystem: Design, implement, and integrate Azure services, including:

• Azure Data Fabric, Data Factory, OneLake, Purview, AI Foundry, Azure ML, Cognitive Services, Power BI, Power Automate
• Build and execute a multi-year roadmap for Azure data and AI ecosystem development
• Optimize the ecosystem to support scaling complexity and advanced AI use cases
• Implement performance monitoring and embedded metrics for data/AI solutions
• Manage and administer Azure environment ensuring security, compliance, and best practices
• Oversee cost management, budgeting, and consumption tracking for Azure services
• Orchestrate development, testing, integration, and deployment of AI models and solutions
• Coordinate across teams to ensure smooth handoff to support and operations
• Troubleshoot and resolve cloud infrastructure and application issues

Collaboration & Leadership:

• Partner with IT, data engineers, analysts, data scientists, and business stakeholders
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to data team members
• Stay current on Azure services and recommend continuous improvements and innovations

Additional Focus Areas:

• Support data observability and AI explainability initiatives
• Ensure governance, transparency, and alignment with data standards and policies
• Bachelor's or Master's in Computer Science, Data Science, Information Systems, or related field
• 8+ years of experience in cloud architecture and AI/data ecosystem design
• Proven experience as a solution architect in cloud environments
• Azure certifications (e.g., Azure Solutions Architect, Azure Data Engineer) preferred

Technical Skills:

• Azure Data Services: Data Fabric, Data Factory, OneLake, Data Warehouse
• AI Services: Azure AI Foundry, Azure Machine Learning, Cognitive Services
• Integration & Apps: API Management, Application Gateway, Power Automate
• Data Engineering: Data modeling, ETL processes, data warehousing
• Programming: Python, R, SQL
• Visualization: Power BI
• Data Governance & Security: Governance frameworks, compliance, lineage tools
• AI Lifecycle: End-to-end model development, deployment, and maintenance

Soft Skills:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement
• Ability to lead projects and mentor junior team members
• Insurance or claims domain experience preferred