Description:

Encoura is seeking a mission-driven Software Architect to join the Data Science Team.
The role involves shaping the software architecture for predictive modeling, data enrichment, and analytics products.
As a key technical leader, the architect will design and evolve backend infrastructure for cloud-based AI-powered solutions.
Responsibilities include leading development efforts for high-performing, scalable systems that manage massive datasets and streamline model scoring pipelines.
The architect's work will enable product innovation, operational efficiency, and market growth in higher education enrollment and marketing technologies.
Daily tasks include designing scalable systems, implementing AI-enabled automation, building high-throughput pipelines, optimizing Databricks architecture, and integrating MLflow for model lifecycle management.
The role requires cross-functional collaboration with data scientists, product managers, and engineers to deliver flexible and innovative architecture.
The architect will also develop APIs and leverage cloud and container expertise to scale resources and optimize operations.
System observability practices will be implemented to monitor predictive workflows in production.

Requirements:

Candidates must be passionate about turning data science into deployable, scalable software products.
A self-starter attitude is essential, with the ability to thrive in ambiguous problem spaces.
Hands-on experience with Databricks or equivalent Spark-based data processing environments is required.
Advanced proficiency in Python and associated libraries such as Pandas, PySpark, Polars, and NumPy is necessary.
Proven experience in designing data pipelines and backend systems for ML/AI workflows is essential.
Familiarity with cloud platforms, especially AWS, and containerization with Docker is required.
Experience with orchestration tools like Kubernetes is a plus.
Knowledge of Streamlit, GitHub workflows, and CI/CD best practices is preferred.
Expertise in developing and exposing ML models with REST and/or GraphQL APIs is necessary.
Experience in higher education, enrollment tech, or education analytics is a plus but not required.
Knowledge of large-scale model management, ML ops, and distributed computing is preferred.
Exposure to business intelligence, cost optimization strategies, or institutional research domains is also preferred.

Encoura offers a mission-driven culture that emphasizes meaningful connections.
A comprehensive health and benefits package is provided to employees.
The company offers a 401k plan with a company match that vests immediately upon participation.
Employees enjoy paid holidays and a generous PTO policy.
Paid parental leave is also included in the benefits package.