Principal Technical Architect - Appian Platform

Role Overview:

The Principal Technical Architect (Appian Platform) will lead architecture, scalability, and performance tuning for our core systems, including Appian Cloud, TCS BaNCS, and Gencon. You will oversee a team of 7 internal developers and 20+ vendor engineers in a fully in-office environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Architecture, Scalability & Performance Tuning:

- Design scalable solutions using Appian Cloud and Data Fabric architecture.

- Remove performance bottlenecks in complex claims workflows and processes.

- Build highly configurable systems using business rules to minimize hardcoding.

- Lead build vs. buy evaluations for new feature requests and plugins.

- Optimize database queries and views interfacing with core legacy platforms.

Quality, Security & Governance:

- Enforce zero-tolerance policies for security vulnerabilities and code defects.

- Establish strict guardrails for internal teams and vendor deliverables.

- Conduct rigorous reviews of Appian Cloud security configurations and access controls.

- Audit integration points ensuring secure data transmission across all systems.

Integration & Backlog Liquidation:

- Architect seamless integrations between Appian Cloud, TCS BaNCS, and Gencon.

- Utilize web services (REST/SOAP) to sync real-time claims data.

- Restructure business backlog into scalable, modular releases.

- Accelerate deployment cycles using native Appian Cloud CI/CD pipelines.

In-Office Leadership & Vendor Oversight:

- Provide side-by-side mentorship to the 7 internal in-office developers.

- Manage vendor delivery quality (20+ Dev/QA) through strict KPIs.

- Collaborate in person with claims business heads and engineering peers.

Required Experience & Qualifications:

Certifications:

- Appian Certified Lead Architect (L3) is highly preferred.

- Appian Certified Senior Developer (L2) is mandatory.

Professional Experience:

- 10+ years in enterprise software architecture and development.

- 4+ years acting as a hands-on Appian Architect.

- Core Insurance experience with claims workflows is preferred.

- Proven track record integrating with high volume and high availability external systems.

Technical Competencies:

- Appian Cloud expertise including Cloud security, VPN setups, and environments.

- Advanced Integration skills for legacy core system synchronization.

- Performance diagnostics using Appian Health Check and performance logs.

- Architectural evaluation methodologies for strategic build vs. buy decisions.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

- System Performance: Reduction in process latency and API timeout errors.

- Security & Compliance: Zero high/critical findings in application security audits.

- Backlog Reduction: Clear downward trajectory of CR backlog.

- Vendor Pass Rate: Percentage of vendor code passing initial QA without rework.