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Computer Architect Jobs in Tucson, AZ (NOW HIRING)

AURA

Principal Software Architect

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$155K - $189K/yr

Lead architectural reviews and guide critical technology decisions across software, data ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a ...

NSF's NOIRLab

Principal Software Architect

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$155K - $189K/yr

Lead architectural reviews and guide critical technology decisions across software, data ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a ...

NOAO

Principal Software Architect

Tucson, AZ

Lead architectural reviews and guide critical technology decisions across software, data ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a ...

Varsity Tutors

College Computer Science Tutor

Tucson, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of data structures, algorithms, object-oriented programming, computer architecture, operating systems, database systems, software engineering, discrete mathematics, and theory of ...

Stantec

Senior Data Architect

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$62.50 - $83.75/hr

Senior Data Architect We are seeking a Senior Data Architect to join a project team that will be ... Bachelor's degree or diploma in computer science, Information Systems, or a related field is ...

Psomas

CAD Drafter

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$24 - $29/hr

As our CAD Drafter for our Survey & Geospatial team in Tucson , you'll play a key role in ... Knowledge of land surveying, civil engineering, architectural, structural, and geospatial ...

Psomas

CAD Drafter

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$24 - $29/hr

As our CAD Drafter for our Survey & Geospatial team in Tucson , you'll play a key role in ... Knowledge of land surveying, civil engineering, architectural, structural, and geospatial ...

AVTC Group

Software Engineer Java Python

Tucson, AZ · On-site

... computer architecture and computer hardware optimization techniques • Knowledge of the development of software drivers for the operation of computer hardware interfaces • Knowledge in common ...

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Computer Architect information

See Tucson, AZ salary details

$151.1K

$165.8K

$179K

How much do computer architect jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer architect in Tucson, AZ is $165,761.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $158,700.00 and $172,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Computer Architect Do?

A computer architect designs software to enhance a company’s network performance. As a computer architect, you design software, write algorithms, and engineer new systems to improve performance and function goals. Your responsibilities include maintaining data and putting together new components to help the business systems run more efficiently based on the company’s needs. Computer architects may also work with computer hardware, researching, developing, designing, and testing computer equipment.

How much do computer architects make?

Computer architects, also known as hardware architects or system architects, typically earn a median annual salary of around $130,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $80,000 to over $180,000 depending on experience, location, and industry. Advanced skills in digital design, knowledge of hardware description languages, and certifications can influence earning potential.

How much does a computer architect earn?

Computer architects, also known as hardware architects or system architects, typically earn a median annual salary of around $130,000, with salaries varying based on experience, education, and location. Senior professionals with specialized skills in designing complex computer systems can earn higher compensation, often exceeding $180,000 annually.

How does a Computer Architect typically collaborate with hardware and software teams during a project?

Computer Architects play a crucial role in bridging the gap between hardware and software teams to ensure system designs are both innovative and practical. They regularly participate in cross-functional meetings to discuss requirements, performance goals, and potential design trade-offs. By working closely with hardware engineers, they help define processor specifications and system layouts, while collaborating with software developers to optimize code for the architecture. This collaborative environment allows Computer Architects to influence both the physical hardware and the software that runs on it, ensuring overall system efficiency.

What are Computer Architects?

Computer Architects are professionals who design and develop the structure and functionality of computer systems, including processors, memory systems, and data pathways. They focus on optimizing performance, energy efficiency, and scalability to meet specific computing needs. Computer Architects often work closely with hardware and software engineers to create innovative computing solutions for industries ranging from consumer electronics to high-performance computing. Their work is critical in shaping the capabilities and efficiency of modern computers.

What does a computer architect do?

A computer architect designs and develops computer hardware and system architecture, including processors, memory systems, and input/output devices. They analyze performance requirements, create technical specifications, and often work with software engineers to optimize hardware-software integration using tools like simulation and modeling. Strong knowledge of digital logic, computer design, and hardware description languages is essential for this role.

What is the difference between Computer Architect vs Computer Hardware Engineer?

AspectComputer ArchitectComputer Hardware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or master's in computer science, computer engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's or master's in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentDesigning and planning computer systems, often in R&D or design firmsDeveloping, testing, and manufacturing hardware components in labs or manufacturing facilities
Industry UsageUsed in designing new computer architectures for CPUs, GPUs, and systemsUsed in creating physical hardware components like circuit boards, processors, and peripherals

Computer Architects focus on designing the overall structure and architecture of computer systems, while Computer Hardware Engineers work on developing and testing the physical hardware components. Both roles require technical expertise but differ in their focus areas within the computing industry.

Are computer architects in demand?

Computer architects are in high demand due to the growing need for advanced hardware design, system optimization, and integration of emerging technologies like AI and cloud computing. They typically require strong knowledge of hardware description languages, system architecture, and relevant certifications, and often work in research, development, or engineering environments.

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

To thrive as a Computer Architect, you need deep knowledge of computer hardware design, digital logic, and computer organization, usually backed by a degree in computer engineering or a related field. Familiarity with hardware description languages (HDLs) like VHDL or Verilog, simulation tools, and performance analysis software is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These skills are essential for designing efficient, high-performance computing systems that meet organizational and technological needs.
More about Computer Architect jobs
What are popular job titles related to Computer Architect jobs in Tucson, AZ? For Computer Architect jobs in Tucson, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Computer Architect jobs in Tucson, AZ look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Architect jobs in Tucson, AZ are:
What cities near Tucson, AZ are hiring for Computer Architect jobs? Cities near Tucson, AZ with the most Computer Architect job openings:
Computer Architect jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Architect job openings in Tucson, AZ as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $150,446 per year, or $72.3 per hour.
Principal Software Architect

Principal Software Architect

AURA

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$155K - $189K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

NOIRLab is seeking a visionary Principal Software Architect to lead the architectural strategy and technical evolution of software systems that power world-class astronomical research, observatory operations, and scientific data management.
In this highly influential leadership role, you will define the technology roadmap for a diverse portfolio of scientific and operational platforms spanning cloud computing, distributed systems, high-performance computing (HPC), data-intensive applications, and AI-enabled technologies. You will drive modernization efforts that advance scientific discovery, improve engineering productivity, and ensure the reliability and scalability of mission-critical systems supporting some of the world's most advanced astronomical facilities.
Working closely with scientists, software engineers, data specialists, and operations teams, you will provide hands-on technical leadership, translate complex scientific requirements into innovative software solutions, and establish architectural standards that enable long-term sustainability and growth.
This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of scientific software and enable transformational discoveries through technology.
Essential Functions
Architectural Leadership & Technology Strategy
  • Define and execute the architectural vision, technology roadmap, and long-term strategy for NOIRLab's scientific and operational software ecosystem.
  • Establish enterprise-scale architecture principles, engineering standards, governance processes, and best practices.
  • Lead architectural reviews and guide critical technology decisions across software, data, infrastructure, and operational domains.
  • Partner with scientific and engineering stakeholders to translate complex requirements into scalable, secure, and resilient solutions.
  • Identify and address architectural risks, technical debt, and modernization opportunities across the software portfolio.
  • Champion modernization initiatives that improve system scalability, reliability, maintainability, and operational efficiency while supporting uninterrupted scientific operations.

System Design & Engineering Excellence
  • Architect and evolve cloud-native, containerized, distributed, and HPC-based platforms supporting observatory operations, scientific data pipelines, user services, and large-scale data processing systems.
  • Design solutions capable of managing petabyte-scale datasets and computationally intensive scientific workloads.
  • Develop reference architectures, prototypes, and technical frameworks that accelerate solution delivery and consistency across teams.
  • Drive adoption of DevSecOps practices, Infrastructure as Code (IaC), CI/CD pipelines, automated testing, observability, and site reliability engineering principles.
  • Participate in architecture reviews, design reviews, code reviews, and implementation of critical software components.

Innovation & Technical Enablement
  • Evaluate and adopt emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), generative AI, and large language model (LLM) solutions, where they deliver measurable scientific, engineering, or operational value.
  • Serve as a trusted technical mentor and thought leader across engineering teams.
  • Foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and architectural consistency across science, software, data, and operations organizations.
  • Help advance software engineering practices that support innovation, quality, and long-term sustainability.

Additional Responsibilities
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
  • Ensure compliance with AURA property management requirements and organizational policies.
  • Support compliance with applicable government award terms and conditions as defined in organizational award management systems.

Requirements
Education & Experience
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field; equivalent professional experience will be considered.
  • 15+ years of progressive software engineering experience, including experience as a Software Architect, Principal Engineer, Distinguished Engineer, or similar technical leadership role.
  • Demonstrated success designing, delivering, and evolving large-scale distributed and data-intensive software systems.

Technical Expertise
  • Deep expertise in software architecture, system design, API design, scalability, resilience, reliability, and distributed systems.
  • Experience designing and operating cloud-native, containerized, microservices-based applications and platforms.
  • Strong background in multiple programming languages and modern software development methodologies.
  • Experience building and managing platforms that process and store petabyte-scale data.
  • Experience with scientific computing, high-performance computing (HPC), distributed computing, or large-scale computational environments.
  • Experience designing data pipelines, workflow orchestration systems, and data-intensive platforms.
  • Knowledge of event-driven architectures, messaging systems, and asynchronous processing patterns.
  • Experience with DevSecOps, CI/CD, Infrastructure as Code, monitoring, observability, and software delivery automation.
  • Understanding of secure software development practices, including authentication, authorization, and data protection.
  • Experience evaluating, integrating, or leveraging AI/ML, generative AI, or LLM-powered capabilities within software platforms or engineering workflows.

Leadership Skills
  • Exceptional communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively across scientific, engineering, and operational organizations.
  • Demonstrated ability to influence technical direction, mentor engineers, and lead through architectural expertise rather than direct authority.
  • Proven hands-on leadership experience through architecture design, prototyping, technical guidance, and code reviews.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience developing software for scientific, research, or data-intensive environments.
  • Experience supporting scientific instrumentation, observatory operations, or large-scale scientific data pipelines.
  • Experience contributing to or leading open-source software projects.
  • Experience working in astronomy, astrophysics, earth sciences, national laboratories, research institutions, or other mission-driven scientific organizations.

Work Environment
This position operates in a professional office environment and routinely utilizes standard office equipment, including computers, phones, and copiers. The work environment is generally quiet and may involve working in close proximity to others, depending on the needs of the specific function
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Must be able to remain in a stationary position at least 50% of the time.
  • Occasional need to move about inside the office environment to access files, office tools, attendance in a meeting room, etc.
  • Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity tools that require fine motor skills, such as a calculator, copy machine, computer printer, etc.
  • May occasionally need to position self to maintain computer and related tools.
  • Seldomly needed to move objects up to 10 pounds.
  • Constant communication with other individuals. Must be able to discern and exchange information as appropriate to the situation.
  • Constant need to distinguish, discern, and identify a variety of objects and fine details with accuracy.
  • Occasional work at high elevation summit sites may be required (summit elevations range from 6,800 feet to 14,000 feet)

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities and skills required by personnel so classified. This Institute promotes Equal Employment Opportunity workplace that includes reasonable accommodations to otherwise qualified, disabled applicants and employees.
Salary Range: $155,673 - $189,559 per year. The final salary will depend on skills, qualifications and experience.
AURA offers an excellent benefits package including paid time off and retirement plan contributions, competitive salary commensurate with experience, and a very attractive work environment. Details on benefits can be found at Benefits by Location - Aura Human Resources
This position will remain open until it is filled. Please submit a cover letter and a CV or resume, PDF files preferred. Please name any attachments with the following format: LastName DocName.
Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can request assistance here.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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