Innovation Architect

First Merchants Bank is seeking an Innovation Architect to join our team! This position will be responsible for designing and implementing enterprise-grade AI and automation solutions that transform how we work and serve customers. Leveraging Microsoft Power Platform, Copilot Studio, and Azure AI services, this role will lead the charge in creating scalable, secure, and compliant solutions that deliver measurable business impact.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities: 

• Strategy & Architecture
  • Own the low-code and automation strategy using Power Platform and Copilot Studio.
  • Define reference architectures for AI-driven workflows and automation solutions. 
  • Drive pro-code initiatives leveraging Microsoft Azure, Azure AI Foundry, and GitHub Copilot.
  • Stay ahead of emerging AI trends and proactively identify opportunities for innovation.
• Solution Development
  • Design and implement scalable, secure, and compliant solutions using Power Apps, Power Automate, Dataverse, and Azure AI services. 
  • Establish CI/CD pipelines and ALM practices for low-code and pro-code solutions 
  • Develop reusable components and templates for rapid deployment across the enterprise.
• Governance & Risk Management
  • Implement monitoring frameworks for governing Copilot, Power Platform, and Azure AI services.
  • Apply Responsible AI principles and ensure adherence to regulatory and banking compliance standards. 
• Training & Championing 
  • Champion the rollout and integration of Microsoft Copilot agents throughout the bank. 
  • Develop training programs, best practices, and governance frameworks for effective adoption. 
  • Act as a proponent for AI capabilities, demonstrating value through real-world use cases. 
• Business Partnership 
  • Engage directly with business stakeholders to identify pain points and opportunities for AI driven automation. 
  • Translate business challenges into technical architectures leveraging generative AI and automation.
  • Co-create solutions that streamline workflows, reduce manual effort, and improve decision-making.

To be successful in this position, we require the following: 

• Bachelor's degree OR an associate degree/two years of college two (2) years of related work/military experience ­OR four (4) years of related work/military experience (plus any additional required experience). 
• A minimum of five (5) years of experience in the Microsoft ecosystem, including deploying solutions with Power Apps, Power Automate, and Dataverse. 
• Hands-on experience with Copilot Studio, Azure AI Foundry, and associated Azure AI services.
• Strong understanding of ALM practices, CI/CD pipelines, and DevOps for low-code platforms.
• Familiarity with Responsible AI principles, data privacy regulations, and compliance frameworks. 
• Ability to design scalable architectures integrating Power Platform with core banking systems and APIs.
• Willingness and ability to adapt and quickly learn new technologies. 

The following would be a plus: 

• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience with prompt engineering for generative AI.
• Knowledge of RPA tools (e.g., UiPath, Nintex) for hybrid automation strategies.
• Familiarity with data analytics and BI tools (Power BI). 
• Certifications such as PL-600 (Power Platform Solution Architect) and AI-102 (Azure AI Engineer). 

First Merchants offers the following:

• Base Pay PLUS Bonuses
• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• 401k
• Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts
• Vacation/Sick Time
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Parental Leave
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Additional Benefits

A little about us:

First Merchants is guided by a genuine philosophy of being a meaningful place to work and having a prosperous impact across all walks of life throughout the communities we serve, including consumers, businesses and other organizations. Our Vision, Mission and Team statement reflect and reinforce that authentic service philosophy.

Our Vision is:

To enhance the financial wellness of the diverse communities we serve.

Our Mission is:

To be the most responsive, knowledgeable, and high-performing financial organization for our clients, teammates, and shareholders.

Our Team:

"We are a collection of dynamic colleagues with diverse experiences and perspectives who share a passion for positively impacting lives. We are genuinely committed to attracting and engaging teammates of diverse backgrounds. We believe in the power of inclusion and belonging."

Apply today to begin your career with us!

Upcoming Location Change: In 2026 our Detroit Headquarters at 32991 Hamilton Court, Farmington Hills, MI 48334 will be moving to Royal Oak at 400 W 4th Street, Royal Oak, MI 48067.