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Principal Architect Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Scale AI

Principal Architect

Washington, DC · On-site

Scale AI is seeking a Principal Architect to drive the design, development, and deployment of their agentic AI products. In this role, you will lead a team of engineers, making high-impact ...

Peraton

Senior Principal Architect

Reston, VA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

The Senior Principal Architect will partner closely with Capture Managers, Proposal Managers, Business Development teams, Subject Matter Experts, and executive leadership to shape winning solutions ...

Peraton

Senior Principal Architect

Reston, VA · On-site

$176K - $282K/yr

The Senior Principal Architect will partner closely with Capture Managers, Proposal Managers, Business Development teams, Subject Matter Experts, and executive leadership to shape winning solutions ...

Peraton

Senior Principal Architect

Reston, VA · On-site

$176K - $282K/yr

The Senior Principal Architect will partner closely with Capture Managers, Proposal Managers, Business Development teams, Subject Matter Experts, and executive leadership to shape winning solutions ...

Peraton

Senior Principal Architect

Reston, VA · On-site

$176K - $282K/yr

The Senior Principal Architect will partner closely with Capture Managers, Proposal Managers, Business Development teams, Subject Matter Experts, and executive leadership to shape winning solutions ...

Scale AI

Principal Architect

Washington, DC · On-site

They are seeking a Principal Architect to lead the design, development, and deployment of AI products while providing strategic and technical guidance to a large engineering team. Responsibilities ...

Peraton

Senior Principal Architect

Reston, VA · On-site

$176K - $282K/yr

The Senior Principal Architect will partner closely with Capture Managers, Proposal Managers, Business Development teams, Subject Matter Experts, and executive leadership to shape winning solutions ...

Scale AI, Inc.

Principal Architect

Washington, DC · On-site

Principal Architect Location: Washington, DC About the Role We are seeking a Principal Architect to drive the design, development, and deployment of our agentic AI products in a fast-paced ...

Peraton

Senior Principal Architect

Reston, VA · On-site

$176K - $282K/yr

The Senior Principal Architect will partner closely with Capture Managers, Proposal Managers, Business Development teams, Subject Matter Experts, and executive leadership to shape winning solutions ...

Peraton

Senior Principal Architect

Reston, VA · On-site

$176K - $282K/yr

The Senior Principal Architect will partner closely with Capture Managers, Proposal Managers, Business Development teams, Subject Matter Experts, and executive leadership to shape winning solutions ...

Peraton

Senior Principal Architect

Reston, VA

$176K - $282K/yr

The Senior Principal Architect will partner closely with Capture Managers, Proposal Managers, Business Development teams, Subject Matter Experts, and executive leadership to shape winning solutions ...

Peraton

Senior Principal Architect

Reston, VA · On-site

$176K - $282K/yr

The Senior Principal Architect will partner closely with Capture Managers, Proposal Managers, Business Development teams, Subject Matter Experts, and executive leadership to shape winning solutions ...

Peraton

Senior Principal Architect

Reston, VA · On-site

$176K - $282K/yr

The Senior Principal Architect will partner closely with Capture Managers, Proposal Managers, Business Development teams, Subject Matter Experts, and executive leadership to shape winning solutions ...

Peraton Labs

Senior Principal Architect

Reston, VA · On-site

They are seeking a Senior Principal Architect to serve as the technical lead for large Federal Civilian pursuits, responsible for developing innovative technical solutions and partnering with various ...

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All JobsPrincipal Architect JobsPrincipal Architect Jobs in Reston, VA

Principal Architect information

See Reston, VA salary details

$83.7K

$178.3K

$240.3K

How much do principal architect jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal architect in Reston, VA is $178,299.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $150,900.00 and $202,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Principal Architect typically collaborate with other departments during a large-scale project?

A Principal Architect often acts as a bridge between the design team, engineering, project management, and client stakeholders to ensure alignment on project goals and constraints. They participate in regular cross-functional meetings, provide technical guidance, and resolve complex design challenges while balancing aesthetic vision with practical requirements. Strong communication and leadership skills are essential, as Principal Architects are responsible for articulating architectural concepts and integrating feedback from various teams. This collaborative approach helps ensure a cohesive and successful project delivery.

What are Principal Architects?

Principal Architects are senior professionals responsible for leading the architectural design and strategic planning of buildings, infrastructure, or technology systems. They oversee large-scale projects, provide technical guidance, and ensure that all designs meet regulatory standards and client requirements. Principal Architects often mentor junior staff, collaborate with clients and stakeholders, and play a key role in shaping the vision and direction of projects. Their expertise is essential for delivering innovative and sustainable architectural solutions.

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

To thrive as a Principal Architect, you need deep expertise in architectural design, project management, and building codes, typically backed by a professional degree and relevant licensure (such as an Architect Registration or equivalent). Proficiency with tools like AutoCAD, Revit, and BIM software, as well as familiarity with sustainable design standards and certifications (LEED or WELL), is crucial. Exceptional leadership, communication, and client management skills set top candidates apart by enabling successful collaboration and stakeholder engagement. These skills are vital to ensure innovative, compliant, and client-focused architectural solutions that lead complex projects to successful completion.

What is the difference between Principal Architect vs Software Architect?

AspectPrincipal ArchitectSoftware Architect
CredentialsTypically requires extensive experience in architecture and certifications like TOGAF or AWS Certified Solutions ArchitectOften holds a degree in computer science or software engineering; certifications like AWS or Microsoft Azure are common
Work EnvironmentLeads enterprise-wide architecture strategies, collaborates with executive teamsFocuses on designing software systems, working closely with development teams
Industry UsageUsed across industries for high-level architectural planningPrimarily in software development and IT companies

The Principal Architect oversees overall enterprise architecture, setting strategic direction, while the Software Architect concentrates on designing specific software solutions. Both roles require technical expertise, but the Principal Architect has a broader scope and higher-level responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Principal Architect jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Principal Architect jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Principal Architect jobs in Reston, VA? For Principal Architect jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Principal Architect jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Principal Architect job openings:
Principal Architect jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Architect job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $178,299 per year, or $85.7 per hour.
Principal Architect

Principal Architect

Altamira Technologies Corp.

Falls Church, VA

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Principal Architect

Altamira Technologies has a long and successful history providing innovative solutions throughout the U.S. National Security community. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, Altamira serves the defense, intelligence, and homeland security communities worldwide by focusing on creating innovative solutions leveraging common standards in architecture, data and security. Altamira believes that our people and the culture of our company differentiate us from other companies.

Principal Architect 

Key Role – OPIR Technical Lead

  • The OPIR Technical Lead must have 10+ years’ experience in overhead OPIR phenomenology directly applicable to real time OPIR Processing Application scope of work (e.g. anomalous light and fire detection).
  • The Tech lead must have a full understanding of the OPIR mission as well as the OPIR Application technical approaches and have demonstrable experience developing OPIR mission processing software.
  • The Tech Lead is responsible for ensuring that the Vendor’s development team follows the proposed technical approach.
  • Help drive innovation in technology, architecture, integration, testing, and modernization in both the company and customer spaces.
  • Provide leadership and mentorship to Altamira’s technical team to enable development of both the people and technology
  • Communicate the created vision to the organization's leadership and employees.

Required Qualifications 

  • United States citizen
  • Active TS/SCI clearance
  • Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information systems, or a related field.
  • 10+ years’ experience in overhead OPIR phenomenology directly applicable to real time OPIR Processing Application scope of work (e.g. anomalous light and fire detection).
  • 5+ years of experience in leading and managing teams.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Desired Qualifications 

  • Experience as a System Architect, Digital Transformation Lead, Lead Architect, or similar senior leadership role.
  • Experience in managing large and complex software and mission integration projects.
  • Experience in working with a variety of business leaders, IT professionals, and customers

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