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Application Architect Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

BCforward

Application Architect

San Francisco, CA

We are hiring only on W2 Lead the WCS web services Architecture and integration with TIBCO Middle ware ,from legacy e-commerce platform as well as backend systems. Hands on experience with WCS web ...

PTP

Java Application Architect

Rancho Cordova, CA · On-site

$67.25 - $90.75/hr

We are looking for a Java Application Architect to help us design and deliver CX solutions that provide our clients with a beautiful customer journey that achieves results. The Java Application ...

Wipro Limited

APPLICATION ARCHITECT L1

Woodland Hills, CA · On-site

$80K - $173K/yr

APPLICATION ARCHITECT L1 City: Woodland Hills State/Province: California Posting Start Date: 7/31/26 Wipro Limited (NYSE: WIT, BSE: 507685, NSE: WIPRO) is a leading technology services and consulting ...

K2 Space

Senior Application Architect

Los Angeles, CA

$150K - $200K/yr

We're looking for a Senior Application Architect who is curious, collaborative, and driven to deliver mission-critical platforms and tools that turn ambitious projects into reality. Responsibilities

PTP

Java Application Architect

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$67.25 - $90.75/hr

We are looking for a Java Application Architect to help us design and deliver CX solutions that provide our clients with a beautiful customer journey that achieves results. Responsibilities : • ...

K2 Space

Senior Application Architect

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

We're looking for a Senior Application Architect who is curious, collaborative, and driven to deliver mission-critical platforms and tools that turn ambitious projects into reality. Responsibilities

K2 Space

Senior Application Architect

Los Angeles, CA

$150K - $200K/yr

We're looking for a Senior Application Architect who is curious, collaborative, and driven to deliver mission-critical platforms and tools that turn ambitious projects into reality. Responsibilities

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Application Architect information

See California salary details

$10

$68

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How much do application architect jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for application architect in California is $68.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60.00 and $77.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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What are popular job titles related to Application Architect jobs in California?

For Application Architect jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Application Architect jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Application Architect jobs in California are:

Application Architect jobs near you
Infographic showing various Application Architect job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 60% In-person, and 40% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $142,257 per year, or $68.4 per hour.

Enterprise Application Architect

CHAOS Industries

El Segundo, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

CHAOS Industries is redefining modern defense with a multi-product portfolio that gives the ultimate advantage-domain dominance. The company's products are powered by Coherent Distributed Networks (CDN™), empowering warfighters, commercial air operators, and border protection teams to act faster, adapt rapidly, and stay ahead of evolving threats.
CHAOS Industries was founded in 2022 and has raised a total of $1 billion in funding from leading investors, including 8VC, Accel, and Valor Equity Partners. The company is headquartered in Los Angeles, with offices in Washington, D.C., San Francisco, San Diego, Seattle, and London. For more information, please visit www.chaosinc.com.
Role Overview:
CHAOS Industries is hiring a Enterprise Application Architect to own the design, integration, and evolution of our enterprise application ecosystem across defense and GovCon program environments. This is a senior individual contributor role with architectural authority - sitting at the intersection of business process, systems design, and mission requirements. You'll translate complex operational needs into scalable, secure, and compliant application solutions and serve as the technical authority for our enterprise platforms. You'll partner directly with program leads, IT leadership, and government stakeholders to define architecture strategy and drive implementation across the enterprise.
  • You'll work across the Enterprise Technology Division, collaborating with Program Managers, ISSMs, Contracts, Finance, and government customers - translating their operational reality into application architecture that actually works in a defense environment. No two days look the same.
  • From day one you'll own the enterprise application architecture blueprint, lead integration design across classified and unclassified environments, and drive the ERP/CRM/ITSM platform strategy. This is a build role - you'll leave fingerprints on everything.

Responsibilities:
  • Define and own the enterprise application architecture blueprint across GovCon and defense program environments, including ERP, CRM, ITSM, HR/Recruiting and program management platforms.
  • Design scalable, secure, and interoperable application solutions that meet DoD and IC program requirements, including data residency, classification boundary, and access control constraints.
  • Architect and oversee integration between enterprise applications and mission systems across hybrid on-premise, cloud (AWS GovCloud, Azure Government), and air-gapped environments.
  • Define API strategy and standards for enterprise application integrations; lead RESTful and event-driven integration pattern design.
  • Partner with program managers, contracts, finance, and operations teams to translate business requirements into technical architecture specifications.
  • Serve as the primary technical liaison to government customers and prime contractors for enterprise application matters on assigned programs.
  • Lead or support application implementation projects from architecture through deployment; govern architectural integrity across delivery teams.
  • Ensure all application architectures comply with DFARS, CMMC Level 2/3, ITAR, NIST 800-53, and applicable export control requirements.
  • Coordinate with the ISSM/ISSO community to support RMF authorization activities for applications operating within classified or CUI environments.
  • Maintain current-state and target-state architecture documentation; manage the enterprise application portfolio inventory and lifecycle.
  • Travel up to 10% CONUS to support program sites, government customer meetings, and architecture reviews.

Minimum Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Software Engineering, or a related technical discipline. Master's degree preferred; equivalent experience considered.
  • 8-12 years of progressive experience in enterprise application architecture, systems integration, or solutions architecture, with a minimum of 4 years supporting defense, GovCon, or federal government environments.
  • Demonstrated experience architecting enterprise application solutions for DoD or IC programs - you've navigated classification boundaries, CUI handling, and government compliance requirements before.
  • Hands-on experience with one or more major enterprise platforms: Azure Government Cloud, or AWS Government Cloud.
  • Experience designing integrations across hybrid cloud and on-premise environments, including AWS GovCloud or Azure Government.
  • Working knowledge of CMMC, DFARS 252.204-7012, and NIST SP 800-171 requirements and their application to enterprise software environments.
  • Active Secret clearance required at time of hire. TS eligibility strongly preferred; specific program assignments may require upgrade.

Preferred Requirements:
  • Experience with core Business applications, ERP, HCS, program accounting or contract management context.
  • Familiarity with DoD acquisition systems, EVM (Earned Value Management), or DCAA audit compliance requirements.
  • Knowledge of Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) principles and their application to enterprise application environments.
  • Experience supporting CMMC Level 2/3 assessment readiness or SSP development for enterprise applications.
  • TOGAF 9/10, AWS Solutions Architect, PMP, or equivalent architecture or delivery certification.
  • Active TS clearance.

Why CHAOS?
  • Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision benefits 100% paid for by the company
  • Additional benefits: 401k (+ 50% company match up to 6% of pay), FSA, HSA, life insurance, and more
  • Our Perks: Free daily lunch, 'No meeting Fridays', unlimited PTO, casual dress code
  • Compensation Components: Competitive base salaries, generous pre-IPO stock option grants, relocation assistance, and (coming soon!) annual bonuses
  • Team Growth: 250 employees and counting across 5 global offices

Salary Range: $160,000 - $220,000
The stated compensation range reflects only the targeted base compensation range and excludes additional earnings such as bonus, equity, and benefits. If your compensation requirements fall outside of the range, we still encourage you to apply. The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations.
Recruiting Agencies: CHAOS Industries does not accept unsolicited resumes or outreach. Unsolicited submissions will not be reviewed or compensated.
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