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Principal Systems Architect Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Engine

Principal Systems Architect

About the Role As Principal Systems Architect for GTM & Business Systems at Engine, you'll own the end-to-end architecture of the platforms that power how we go to market - Salesforce, Tray.io ...

Draper Labs

Principal Systems Architect

Cambridge, MA · On-site

The Digital Engineering and Enabling Technologies Division is seeking a Principal Digital Engineering Solution Architect to apply systems-thinking and advanced methodologies to developing solutions ...

Draper

Principal Systems Architect

Cambridge, MA · On-site

The Digital Engineering and Enabling Technologies Division is seeking a Principal Digital Engineering Solution Architect to apply systems-thinking and advanced methodologies to developing solutions ...

Draper

Principal Systems Architect

Cambridge, MA · On-site

The Digital Engineering and Enabling Technologies Division is seeking a Principal Digital Engineering Solution Architect to apply systems-thinking and advanced methodologies to developing solutions ...

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How much do principal systems architect jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal systems architect in the United States is $138,022.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $117,500.00 and $157,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest salary for a System Architect?

The highest salaries for Principal Systems Architects can exceed $150,000 to $200,000 annually, especially for those with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in cloud platforms, enterprise architecture, or specialized technologies. Compensation varies based on industry, location, and company size, with senior roles often including bonuses and stock options.

What is a Principal Systems Architect job?

A Principal Systems Architect is a senior-level technical role responsible for designing and overseeing complex IT systems and infrastructure. They define technical standards, system architectures, and integration strategies to meet business objectives. This role requires deep expertise in software, hardware, networking, and cloud technologies, along with leadership skills to guide teams. Principal Systems Architects collaborate with stakeholders to ensure scalability, security, and efficiency in system designs.

What are some common challenges faced by Principal Systems Architects, and how are they addressed in this role?

Principal Systems Architects often face the challenge of bridging the gap between complex technical requirements and evolving business needs. This can involve managing competing stakeholder priorities, ensuring system scalability, and integrating new technologies with existing infrastructure. Successful architects address these challenges by maintaining open communication with cross-functional teams, leveraging established architectural frameworks, and employing robust planning and documentation processes. Team collaboration and ongoing professional development are also crucial for staying ahead of industry trends and maintaining effective, future-proof solutions in dynamic environments.

What does a principal System Architect do?

A Principal Systems Architect designs and oversees complex IT systems and infrastructure, ensuring they meet business requirements and technical standards. They analyze system needs, develop architecture frameworks, and collaborate with engineering teams, often utilizing tools like UML and cloud platforms, while providing technical leadership and strategic guidance.

How much does a principal systems architect make at Lockheed Martin?

A principal systems architect at Lockheed Martin typically earns between $130,000 and $180,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and specific project responsibilities. The role often requires advanced technical skills, security clearances, and experience with systems engineering and design tools.

What is the salary of a principal architect in the US?

A principal systems architect in the US typically earns between $130,000 and $180,000 annually, with total compensation often including bonuses and stock options. Salaries vary based on experience, industry, location, and company size, and the role usually requires advanced technical skills and leadership experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Principal Systems Architect position, and why are they important?

To excel as a Principal Systems Architect, you need deep expertise in systems design, enterprise architecture, and solution integration, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with architectural frameworks (like TOGAF or Zachman), cloud platforms (such as AWS or Azure), and relevant certifications (e.g., AWS Certified Solutions Architect) is highly valued. Strong communication, leadership, and stakeholder management abilities set outstanding professionals apart. These competencies enable architects to design robust, scalable systems while aligning technical solutions with business goals across large organizations.

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Principal Systems Architect jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Systems Architect job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, 25% Hybrid, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $138,022 per year, or $66.4 per hour.
Principal Systems Architect

Principal Systems Architect

JCS Solutions LLC

Fort Belvoir, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
JCS Solutions LLC is seeking a Principal Systems Architect to lead the design and development of enterprise-wide and large-scale information system architectures. This role is responsible for defining high-level functional and technical requirements, designing integrated solutions across hardware, software, and communications platforms, and ensuring compliance with open systems standards.
Responsibilities:
• Establish system information requirements for enterprise systems
• Determine high-level functional and technical requirements
• Design architecture including software, hardware, and communications
• Identify, assess, and present options for meeting requirements
• Develop high-level system design diagrams
• Ensure systems comply with OSI and ISO reference models
• Ensure common operating environment is compliant
• Evaluate and resolve workflow and organizational problems
• Provide daily supervision and direction to staff
Qualifications:
Required:
• MA/MS in a technical or managerial discipline
• 10 years of experience in systems architecture
• CSSP Incident Responder, CSSP Auditor, or CSSP Manager certification
• Experience with enterprise-wide or large-scale information systems
• Knowledge of OSI and ISO reference models
• Experience developing high-level system design diagrams
• Supervisory and team leadership experience
Preferred:
• Extensive experience designing systems for DoD, DISA, or DES
• Active Secret clearance required; Top Secret clearance strongly preferred
• Ability to work on-site at Fort Belvoir, VA
• CSSP Incident Responder, Auditor, or Manager certification
• Experience architecting enterprise-scale defense information systems
• Deep knowledge of DoD technical reference models and standards
• Background leading architecture teams in classified environments
Company:
JCS Solutions is a premier cybersecurity and technology solutions provider. Founded in 2014, the company is headquartered in Fairfax, USA, with a team of 51-200 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.

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