Provides lead technical architecture for the district’s most complex, high-impact AI/ML and custom software initiatives. This role is responsible for bridging strategic vision into actionable, scalable system architectures, delivering end-to-end solutions that integrate enterprise data, intelligent automation, and full-stack applications. Operating as a technical authority with high autonomy, the Sr. Lead Engineer establishes advanced engineering standards and CI/CD best practices while serving as the final technical escalation point for system design and performance issues. The role plays a critical part in cultivating a culture of innovation by mentoring engineering staff and designing modern solutions that resolve legacy constraints and ensure long-term system sustainability.
Responsibilities1. Serve as the lead technical architect for complex, high-impact AI/ML, and custom software initiatives.
2. Bridge strategic vision into actionable, scalable system architectures to support engineering teams in creating high-impact systems through process integration and improvement to ensure outcomes fidelity to meet unique K-12 operational and compliance needs.
3. Architect end-to-end solutions that combine enterprise data, intelligent automation, intelligent tools, and full-stack applications (React/.NET).
4. Establish advanced engineering standards, API design patterns, and CI/CD best practices for secure DevOps and cloud-native developments across cloud platforms.
5. Act as the final technical escalation point for system design, application performance issues, and failure mitigation strategies across assigned portfolios to support the department’s overall portfolio and mission.
6. Evaluate and recommend “build vs buy” decisions for AI platforms, tools, and infrastructure to optimize district investments.
7. Mentor Senior Engineers and Engineers, actively contributing to district-wide architecture standards and cultivating a culture of innovation.
8. Coordinate technical strategy implementation with internal stakeholders, external vendors, and executive leadership to ensure successful production deployments.
9. Solve complex legacy constraints by designing modern, secure integrations that ensure system interoperability, sustainability, and auditability.
10. Perform other job-related duties as assigned to support operational objectives.
EDUCATION
Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university or demonstrably equivalent expertise acquired through professional practice, innovation leadership, or system design.
Applicants who do not meet these education qualifications may be considered if they have a unique combination of education and work experiences that indicate potential for success in this role.
WORK EXPERIENCE
10+ years of hands-on/technical experience in enterprise system architecture, full-stack application development, and system integration. Deep technical knowledge of cloud-based platforms, AI/ML tools, and relational databases. Mastery of system design, architecture modeling, and advanced API development. Demonstrated success leading mission-critical initiatives in high-complexity environments without supervision. Excellent verbal and written communication skills; capable of translating technical architecture for executive audiences.
TYPE OF SKILL AND/OR REQUIRED LICENSING/CERTIFICATION
● Previous experience in large K–12 districts or public sector solutions development.
● Knowledge of operational and technical solutions
● Familiarity with Ed-Fi data standards and TEA-related payroll or personnel compliance structures.
● Experience in building custom enterprise platforms and integrating them into complex operational environments.
● Proficiency in the Microsoft Stack (.NET, Azure DevOps), front-end frameworks (React), and Microsoft Power Platform & AI integration tools
● Experience designing data pipelines and scalable learning models
● Excellent verbal and written communications skills - capable of translating technical architecture for executive audiences
LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITIES
Serves as a technical authority and mentor to implementation teams.Operates with high autonomy in solution architecture.
WORK COMPLEXITY/INDEPENDENT JUDGMENT
Hybrid office schedule with occasional on-site collaboration, workshops, and design sessions. May require extended hours during critical release windows.
BUDGET AUTHORITY
None
PROBLEM SOLVING
Responsible for solving cross-functional challenges involving outdated platforms, data fragmentation, and large-scale system change. Recommends innovative approaches to ensure future-ready solutions and continuous service delivery. Resolves highly complex technical challenges involving enterprise architecture, system integrations, and business process automation.
IMPACT OF DECISIONS
Decisions affect the continuity and quality of services used by 27,000 employees and 180,000 students. Errors could lead to disruptions that incur excessive costs, significant delays, and security risks.
COMMUNICATION/INTERACTIONS
Frequently interacts with executive leadership, vendors, board members, and operational leaders. Negotiates system transitions and engages in cross-departmental technical planning.
CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIPS
Serves as a key liaison and trusted advisor to internal customers. Drives engagement and satisfaction through technology solutions that meet instructional and business needs.
WORKING/ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
Work is typically performed in an office setting. Extended hours and districtwide travel may be required. Must have valid Texas driver’s license and appropriate insurance coverage.
What We Do
Houston Independent School District (HISD) is a public school district serving students from prekindergarten through grade 12 in Houston, Texas. As the largest public school system in Texas, it provides comprehensive K–12 education and works to prepare students for life beyond the classroom. Its mission emphasizes high-quality, student-centered education, critical thinking, leadership, community participation, and equitable opportunities for success.
