Solutions Architect

Sr Solutions Architect - Collaboration PresalesSan Ramon, CAAs a Senior Collaboration Presales Architect (Cisco Webex / Unified Communications) at ePlus, you will serve as a hands-on technical leader responsible for the design and architecture of enterprise collaboration solutions. This role is pre-sales focused and highly customer-facing, supporting the sales process through technical discovery, solution design, and strategic guidance.You will partner with account teams, senior architects, engineers, and consultants to translate client business and technical requirements into scalable, cloud-forward collaboration solutions and strategic roadmaps.You will engage directly with customers' IT and telecom teams to design hybrid and cloud-based collaboration environments, with a strong emphasis on migrations from legacy on-premises platforms supporting both voice and contact center initiatives.This is a pre-sales role designed for architects who enjoy being deeply technical while acting as a trusted advisor throughout the solution lifecycle.Your ImpactThe essential functions of this position include:Architecture & Solution DesignLead technical discovery sessions, workshops, and assessments to gather business and technical requirementsDesign multi-vendor voice, video, and collaboration solutions aligned to customer needs and strategic goalsDevelop high-level and detailed solution architectures, including hybrid and cloud migration strategiesCreate and present technical designs, diagrams, and recommendations to customer stakeholdersTranslate requirements into scalable, cost-effective solutions aligned with best practicesEngineer collaboration solutions based on capacity planning, scalability, and functional requirementsPerform detailed environmental assessments and provide clear, actionable technical recommendationsCollaboration TechnologiesArchitect solutions across:Cisco Webex Calling (Multi-Tenant and Dedicated Instance)Cisco Unified Communications (CUCM) in migration and coexistence scenariosZoom PhoneContact Center and enterprise video conferencing platformsCarrier-integrated voice solutions, including PSTN connectivityDesign for complex PSTN connectivity, number porting, SBC configuration, E911, and survivability requirementsProvide technical guidance to identify, isolate, and mitigate potential issues during solution design and validationMaintain awareness of competitive platforms including Cisco, Microsoft Teams and ZoomCustomer & Internal EngagementServe as the primary technical advisor during the sales cycle for collaboration opportunitiesPartner with account executives and sales engineers to scope, position, and validate solutionsLead customer-facing presentations, whiteboarding sessions, and technical deep divesSupport the development of Statements of Work (SOWs), Bill of Materials (BOMs), and solution estimatesCollaborate with delivery teams to ensure smooth transition from design to implementationWork with telecom solution providers to validate PSTN connectivity, number porting feasibility, and solution design considerationsVendor & Technology LeadershipEngage with Cisco, Zoom, Poly and other technology partners for solution validation, design support, and roadmap alignmentStay current with collaboration technologies, product roadmaps, and industry best practicesMaintain advanced technical certifications and pursue additional certifications as recommendedQualificationsRequired Knowledge & SkillsStrong understanding of cloud-based collaboration and telecommunications architecturesKnowledge of typical service provider processes and systems, end-user requirements, and the Software as a Service (SaaS) business modelExperience with:SBCs, PSTN connectivity, and carrier integrationsE911, high availability, and survivability designPremise-to-cloud migrations, including third-party application integrationStrong analytical and troubleshooting skills, with the ability to identify risks and validate solution designsAbility to lead customer discussions and translate business requirements into technical solutionsStrong presentation, whiteboarding, and communication skillsEnergetic and self-motivated, with a positive, collaborative approach to building customer confidence while driving continuous improvements to processes and toolsProfessional, customer-focused demeanor with excellent verbal and written communication skillsTechnology ExperienceCandidates must be fully capable of designing solutions using two or more of the following:Cisco Webex Calling (Multi-Tenant and Dedicated Instance)Cisco Unified Communications Manager (CUCM) in hybrid or migration scenariosContact Center solutions (Cisco, Five9, Genesys, Zoom)Enterprise video conferencing platforms (Cisco, Logitech, Neat, Poly, Zoom, etc.)Nice to Have:Microsoft Teams Calling (Teams PBX, Direct Routing, Operator Connect, etc.)Zoom Phone and conferencing solutionsEducation & Experience7+ years of hands-on IT experience4+ years in a senior engineering, consultant, or architect-level roleBachelor's degree preferred (or equivalent experience)Industry-recognized certifications strongly preferred, with an expectation to obtain and maintain relevant credentials:Cisco Collaboration certifications (CCNP Collaboration, Cisco Certified Specialist, CCIE, etc.)Microsoft certifications (nice to have)Position SpecificsThe base salary range for this position at commencement of employment is expected to be between $120,000 and $170,000 annually; however, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, including commissions and discretionary bonuses, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits (including 401(k) eligibility and various paid time off benefits, such as vacation, sick time, and personal leave), dependent on the position offered. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.If hired, employee will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.At ePlus, we believe technology is a people business. Our team is passionate, skilled, and driven to deliver solutions that make a real difference. Join us and be part of a culture that values collaboration, innovation, and extraordinary results.Corporate ValuesRespectful communication and cooperation: We prioritize respectful communication, fostering an environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.Teamwork and employee participation: Collaboration and teamwork thrive through diverse perspectives, both within our teams and in our interactions with our customers.Work/life balance that supports our employees' varying needs: We value the well-being of our employees, recognizing that a healthy work-life balance is pivotal to our collective success.Embracing communities: We embrace and support the communities that nurture us. Our employees' dedication to fostering positive change is a source of immense pride for us.Commitment to Diversity, Inclusion and BelongingWe are an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate or allow discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, citizenship, disability, veteran status, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local law.ePlus is dedicated to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture that represents diversity, enables inclusion, and makes our employees feel comfortable bringing their full, unique selves to work.Physical RequirementsWhile performing this role, you will engage in