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Application Architect Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dev Technology

Lead Application Architect

Suitland, MD

$120K - $180K/yr

Lead Application Architect Job #1072 U.S. Citizenship is required Must be in person in Suitland, MD We are seeking a Subject Matter Expert (SME)-level Lead Application Architect to design and define ...

System One

Application Architect

Bethesda, MD · On-site

Application Architect Location: Bethesda, MD Type: Permanent salaried position Compensation: 170- 190K Contractor Work Model: Hybrid (2 to 3 days on site in Bethesda MD) The Senior Application ...

InstantServe LLC

Application Architect

Suitland, MD · On-site

The Lead Application Architect develops secure multi-cloud application architectures and ensures alignment with Decennial business and operations plans and governance. Decision-making and domain ...

B&A

Lead Application Architect

Suitland, MD · On-site

Description Lead Application Architect At B&A, we foster and embrace a distinct set of values that we live by and instill in all aspects of our organization: dedication, commitment, partnership ...

System One

Application Architect

Bethesda, MD · On-site

Application Architect Location: Bethesda, MD Type: Permanent salaried position Compensation: 170- 190K Contractor Work Model: Hybrid (2 to 3 days on site in Bethesda MD) The Senior Application ...

System One

Application Architect

Bethesda, MD · On-site

Application Architect Location: Bethesda, MD Type: Permanent salaried position Compensation: 170- 190K Contractor Work Model: Hybrid (2 to 3 days on site in Bethesda MD) The Senior Application ...

Dev Technology

Lead Application Architect

Suitland, MD · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

Lead Application Architect Job #1072 U.S. Citizenship is required Must be in person in Suitland, MD We are seeking a Subject Matter Expert (SME)-level Lead Application Architect to design and define ...

StaffBuffalo

Application Architect

Buffalo, NY

$90K - $130K/yr

Application Architect Overview: Are you an experienced technology leader who enjoys designing scalable enterprise systems, guiding modernization efforts, and translating complex business needs into ...

Logix Guru

Application Architect

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

The Application Architect will help establish consistency across platforms, improve and standardize implementation practices, strengthen database and application flow design and identify integration ...

Dev Technology

Lead Application Architect

Suitland, MD

$120K - $180K/yr

Lead Application Architect Job #1072 U.S. Citizenship is required Must be in person in Suitland, MD We are seeking a Subject Matter Expert (SME)-level Lead Application Architect to design and define ...

SiloSmashers

Application Architect

Arlington, VA · On-site

Application Architect Location: On-Site - Arlington, VA Clearance: Must be a U.S. citizen and able to obtain and maintain DHS suitability clearance, as required by federal contract. Summary: The ...

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Application Architect information

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How much do application architect jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for application architect in the United States is $69.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60.82 and $78.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paid type of architect?

Among architecture roles, enterprise architects and solutions architects tend to have the highest salaries due to their strategic and technical expertise. Application architects, who design software solutions, also earn high wages, especially with advanced certifications and experience. Salary levels vary based on industry, location, and company size.

What does an application architect do?

An application architect designs and oversees the development of software applications, ensuring they meet technical requirements and business goals. They create system architecture diagrams, select appropriate technologies, and collaborate with developers and stakeholders to deliver scalable, efficient solutions. Strong knowledge of programming, system integration, and architecture frameworks is essential for this role.

What is an Application Architect?

An Application Architect is a technology professional responsible for designing the overall structure of software applications. They define application components, frameworks, and interfaces to ensure that software solutions meet business needs and technical requirements. Application Architects work closely with development teams, stakeholders, and other architects to create scalable, efficient, and maintainable systems. Their role often involves making critical decisions about software design patterns, integration strategies, and technology stacks.

How does an Application Architect typically collaborate with development and business teams during a project?

Application Architects work closely with both development teams and business stakeholders to ensure that software solutions align with organizational goals and technical requirements. They facilitate communication by translating business needs into technical specifications and by guiding developers on architectural best practices. Regular meetings, design reviews, and cross-functional workshops are common, helping to address challenges early and ensure alignment throughout the development lifecycle. This collaborative approach not only streamlines project delivery but also supports innovation and quality in the final product.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Application Architect, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Application Architect, you need a deep understanding of software development, system design, and architecture principles, often backed by a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with cloud platforms, architectural frameworks (like TOGAF), and tools such as UML, as well as relevant certifications, are commonly expected. Strong problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills help you collaborate effectively with stakeholders and development teams. These competencies ensure robust, scalable, and efficient application solutions aligned with business goals.

How much do application architects make?

Application architects typically earn a median annual salary between $100,000 and $150,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in cloud platforms or enterprise systems can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $160,000 annually.

What is the salary of application architect?

The salary of an application architect typically ranges from $100,000 to $160,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior roles with specialized skills in cloud platforms, software design, and enterprise architecture may earn higher compensation. Certifications like TOGAF or AWS can also influence salary levels.

What is the difference between Application Architect vs Software Developer?

AspectApplication ArchitectSoftware Developer
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in CS, certifications like TOGAF or AWSBachelor's in CS or related field, certifications vary
Work EnvironmentDesigns overall application structure, collaborates with teamsWrites, tests, and maintains code, often in teams or solo
Industry UsageUsed across enterprise, software, and tech companiesCommon in startups, tech firms, and software companies

The Application Architect focuses on designing the overall structure and architecture of software applications, ensuring scalability and integration. In contrast, the Software Developer primarily writes and maintains code to implement features. While both roles require technical skills and often overlap in knowledge, the architect has a broader strategic role, whereas the developer is more hands-on with coding tasks.

More about Application Architect jobs
What cities are hiring for Application Architect jobs? Cities with the most Application Architect job openings:
What states have the most Application Architect jobs? States with the most job openings for Application Architect jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Application Architect jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Application Architect jobs are:
Application Architect jobs near you
Infographic showing various Application Architect job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $144,144 per year, or $69.3 per hour.

Lead Application Architect

Dev Technology

Suitland, MD

$120K - $180K/yr

Other

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Lead Application Architect Job #1072

 U.S. Citizenship is required

 Must be in person in Suitland, MD

We are seeking a Subject Matter Expert (SME)-level Lead Application Architect to design and define the overall structure and framework of applications. This role provides technical and management leadership on major application architecture assignments, establishing standards, patterns, and types that prioritize interoperability, reliability, scalability, security, and other DevSecOps dimensions. The Lead Application Architect develops secure multi-cloud application architectures and ensures alignment with business and operations plans and governance. Decision-making and domain knowledge may have a critical impact on overall program implementation. May supervise others. 

What You'll Be Doing: 

  • Establish, document, and maintain application architecture standards, patterns, and types prioritizing interoperability, reliability, availability, performance, scalability, extensibility, and security 
  • Develop and maintain tools, processes, documentation, and templates required to manage the Application Architecture 
  • Develop, document, and maintain secure multi-cloud application architectures using microservices, infrastructure as code, serverless computing, and containerization 
  • Perform business and solution architecture activities to model requirements in alignment with architecture goals 
  • Create and maintain application architecture artifacts and brief governance boards as requested by the Government 
  • Perform reviews and assessments of current and proposed application architecture and provide recommendations that meet business needs 
  • Develop, document, and maintain Concepts of Operations based on business requirements by application 
  • Develop, document, implement, and maintain API standards and best practices, including API management, discovery, security, and governance 
  • Implement application lifecycle management practices aligned with Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) and API security requirements 
  • Develop and maintain application architectures consistent with FinOps procedures, including automated cost monitoring and optimization 
  • Participate in Engineering Working Group (EWG) reviews and other governance boards, providing technical recommendations 

Education and Experience 

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or a related field 
  • 15+ years of experience providing technical and management leadership on major application architecture assignments (SME level) 

Certifications 

Desired: 

  • Certified Solutions Architect (AWS / Azure / Google Cloud Professional) 
  • Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) 
  • DevOps Certification 

Required Skills 

  • Expert experience defining application architecture standards, patterns, and reference architectures 
  • Demonstrated ability to design secure multi-cloud application architectures (microservices, IaC, serverless, containerization) 
  • Strong background in API management - design, security, discovery, and governance 
  • Experience aligning application lifecycle management with Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) 
  • Experience developing Concepts of Operations and briefing architecture governance boards 

Desired Skills 

  • Experience with application FinOps cost optimization and automated monitoring 
  • Familiarity with DevSecOps CI/CD and cloud-native best practices 
  • Experience with large-scale federal modernization or System of Systems (SoS) programs 
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including executive briefing to senior Government stakeholders 

Our estimated salary range for this position is $120,000 - $180,000, this presented salary range is not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Offered salary is based on experience, geographic location, and possibly contractual requirements as appropriate to the role. *Salary could fall outside of this range. 

 

 

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