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Full Time Lead Software Architect Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead Software Architect Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) has an exciting opportunity for a Lead Software Architect to support the E-7A mission team in Tukwila, WA ...

New

Lead Software Architect Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) has an exciting opportunity for a Lead Software Architect to support the E-7A mission team in Tukwila, WA ...

New

As a Senior Software Architect, you will play a critical role in defining and evolving the ... Architect & Lead * Set end-to-end technical direction, including platform vision, technology ...

Systems Architect

Chantilly, VA

$251K/yr

Experience as a team's software architect, lead software developer, lead DevOps engineer, or ... UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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Full Time Lead Software Architect information

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$43

$70

$91

How much do full time lead software architect jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time lead software architect in the United States is $70.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62.26 and $75.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Full Time Lead Software Architect, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time Lead Software Architect, you need deep expertise in software design, systems architecture, and programming, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with architectural frameworks, cloud platforms (such as AWS or Azure), and tools like UML, as well as relevant certifications (e.g., TOGAF), is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills set standout candidates apart in this role. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring the creation of scalable, maintainable systems and for driving technical vision and collaboration across development teams.

Is software architect still in demand?

Software architects are in high demand due to the ongoing need for complex system design and technical leadership in software development. They often require strong skills in programming, system analysis, and experience with cloud platforms and architecture frameworks, making their role critical in many organizations' IT strategies.

What is the difference between Full Time Lead Software Architect vs Software Development Manager?

AspectFull Time Lead Software ArchitectSoftware Development Manager
Primary FocusDesigning system architecture and technical strategyManaging development teams and project delivery
Required SkillsSoftware architecture, system design, coding expertiseTeam leadership, project management, communication
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with architects, developers, stakeholdersLeads development teams, liaises with product managers
Common CertificationsTOGAF, AWS Certified Solutions ArchitectPMP, Scrum Master Certification

The Full Time Lead Software Architect primarily focuses on designing and overseeing the technical architecture of software systems, ensuring scalability and performance. In contrast, a Software Development Manager manages development teams, oversees project timelines, and ensures delivery. Both roles require strong technical knowledge, but their core responsibilities differ, with architects emphasizing system design and managers focusing on team and project management.

How much does a lead software architect make?

A lead software architect typically earns between $120,000 and $180,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. They often have advanced skills in system design, programming, and project management, and may receive bonuses or stock options as part of compensation.

What is L1, L2, L3, and L4 developer?

In software development, L1, L2, L3, and L4 often refer to different levels of developer seniority or expertise, with L1 being entry-level and L4 representing senior or lead developers. These levels help organizations structure career progression, assign responsibilities, and determine compensation, especially in large tech companies or teams. For a Full Time Lead Software Architect, understanding these levels can clarify team hierarchy and expectations for technical leadership roles.

What is a Full Time Lead Software Architect?

A Full Time Lead Software Architect is a senior-level professional responsible for designing and overseeing the technical architecture of software systems in an organization. They make critical decisions about technology stacks, system integrations, and software structure to ensure scalability, security, and performance. In addition to hands-on technical work, they often mentor developers, set coding standards, and collaborate with stakeholders to align software solutions with business goals. Their role is essential in guiding development teams and ensuring the long-term success of software projects.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

A full-time lead software architect or senior engineering executive can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or large tech companies. Such roles typically require extensive experience, advanced technical skills, and often involve leadership responsibilities and strategic decision-making.

How does a Full Time Lead Software Architect typically balance hands-on coding with architectural oversight and team leadership responsibilities?

A Full Time Lead Software Architect often balances hands-on coding with broader architectural and leadership duties by dedicating specific time blocks to each area. While they may still participate in coding critical components or setting up frameworks, much of their focus is on designing system architecture, reviewing code, mentoring developers, and ensuring adherence to best practices. They also collaborate closely with product managers, stakeholders, and other technical leads to align technical solutions with business goals. Effective time management and delegation are crucial, as the architect must guide the team while ensuring the scalability and maintainability of the overall system.
More about Full Time Lead Software Architect jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Lead Software Architect jobs? The most popular types of Lead Software Architect jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Full Time Lead Software Architect jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Full Time Lead Software Architect jobs are:
Infographic showing various Full Time Lead Software Architect job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 96% Full Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $146,377 per year, or $70.4 per hour.
Lead Software Architect

Lead Software Architect

Boeing

Tukwila, WA

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago


Boeing rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 596 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 521 rated manufacturers


Job description

Lead Software Architect

Company:

The Boeing Company

Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) has an exciting opportunity for a Lead Software Architect to support the E-7A mission team in Tukwila, WA

This role requires a strong partnership with stakeholders to translate system-level requirements into software requirements and models, ensuring traceability and alignment with the customer's operational, and performance needs. The motivated and talented individual will develop next generation Open Mission Software (OMS) Battle Management Command & Control (BMC2) Software primarily for USAF E-7A, but also support other Airborne Surveillance, Command and Control (ASC2) programs like E-3 AWACS, 767 AWACS, and other 737 Airborne Early Warning & Control Aircraft. These aircraft represent the world's standard for airborne early warning and control systems, filling the need for both command-and-control functions for tactical and air defense forces, take a look at our video: https://youtu.be/nqzG2ORPJgI?si=KpBHcojc3CE7Rgsq

The ideal candidate will be a leader in software lifecycle activities; this includes but not limited to document reviews, risk analysis, and Program Increment planning. You will also oversee product and process alignment with project plans and industry standards, and champion the adoption of emerging development technologies and techniques. This is in support of multiple customers and air platforms.

Position Responsibilities:

  • Leads design, development, and maintenance of software systems meeting stringent quality, safety, security, and certification standards

  • Collaborates with stakeholders to define system requirements and translate them into software requirements and models

  • Conducts and reviews software system-level analyses to identify risks, issues, and opportunities; leads mitigation efforts

  • Leads code reviews ensuring compliance with requirements and standards

  • Oversees test completion, verification processes, and issue resolution

  • Develops program documentation as needed

  • Monitors product and process alignment with project plans and industry standards

  • Leads software project management and assists with supplier management activities

  • Implements current and emerging technologies, tools, and frameworks relevant to software development

This position is expected to be 100%onsite. The selected candidate will be required to workonsiteat one of the listed location options.

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills/Experience):

  • Bachelor's Degree

  • Active Secret U.S. Security Clearance (A U.S. Security Clearance that has been active in the past 24 months is considered active.)

  • 9+ years' experience with software development processes

  • 5+ years' experience designing and developing software using Python, C/C++, C# and/or Java

  • 3+ years' experience in software architecture and open architectures

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):

  • Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited course of study in engineering, engineering technology (includes manufacturing engineering technology), chemistry, physics, mathematics, data science, or computer science and 9+ years of related work experience OR Bachelor's Degree and 13+ years of directly related work experience OR 17+ years of related, relevant experience

  • Experience as an organization spokesperson on advanced projects and programs

  • Experience acting as advisor to management and customers on advanced technical concepts

  • Experience with MIL-STD-6016 systems and standards

  • Experience with MIL-STD-6040 systems and standards

  • Experience in software systems engineering within defense or aerospace sectors

  • Understanding of software development lifecycle and quality assurance

  • Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills

Conflict of Interest:

Successful candidates for this job must satisfy the Company's Conflict of Interest (COI) assessment process.

Travel:

Position may require travel up to 10% of the time.

Drug Free Workplace:

Boeingis a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.

CodeVue Coding Challenge:

To be considered for this position you will be required to complete a technical assessment as part of the selection process. Failure to complete the assessment will remove you from consideration.

Union:

This is a union-represented position.

Total Rewards:

At Boeing, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.

The Boeing Company also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.

The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

Summary Pay Range: USD $171,700 - $232,300

Language Requirements:

Not Applicable

Education:

Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent

Relocation:

This position offers relocation based on candidate eligibility.

Export Control Requirement:

This position must meet U.S. export control compliance requirements. To meet U.S. export control compliance requirements, a "U.S. Person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. 120.62 is required. "U.S. Person" includes U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.

Safety Sensitive:

This is not a Safety Sensitive Position.

Security Clearance:

This position requires an active U.S. Secret Security Clearance (U.S. Citizenship Required). (A U.S. Security Clearance that has been active in the past 24 months is considered active)

Visa Sponsorship:

Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.

Contingent Upon Award Program

This position is not contingent upon program award

Shift:

Shift 1 (United States of America)

Stay safe from recruitment fraud! The only way to apply for a position at Boeing is via our Careers website. Learn how to protect yourself from recruitment fraud - Recruitment Fraud Warning

Boeing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

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