1

Software System Architect Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for a high performing Senior Software System Architect to lead and mentor the VMEC software organization in developing high quality, well architected software for present and future ...

We are looking for a high performing Senior Software System Architect to lead and mentor the VMEC software organization in developing high quality, well architected software for present and future ...

We are looking for a high performing Senior Software System Architect to lead and mentor the VMEC software organization in developing high quality, well architected software for present and future ...

We are looking for a high performing Senior Software System Architect to lead and mentor the VMEC software organization in developing high quality, well architected software for present and future ...

System Architect

San Diego, CA · On-site

$258K/yr

As a System Architect, you will own the end-to-end software system architecture, ensuring coherent integration of product definitions, manufacturing software, and automation layers. Responsibilities ...

System Architect

Southfield, MI · On-site

$224K/yr

We are looking for an experienced System Architect who will be mainly in charge of identifying ... Also actively involved in benchmarking studies, market trends for Hardware and Software ...

System Architect

Southfield, MI · On-site

$224K/yr

We are looking for an experienced System Architect who will be mainlyin charge of identifying ... Also actively involved in benchmarking studies, market trends for Hardware and Software ...

System Architect

Littleton, CO · On-site

$140K - $225K/yr

System Architect Location-Type: Onsite, Waterton, CO | Relo available for Non-local candidates ... TS/SCI eligibility required for long-term employment) • Proficiency in Python for software ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Software System Architect information

See salary details

$57

$71

$102

How much do software system architect jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for software system architect in the United States is $71.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62.74 and $74.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do software architects make?

Software architects typically earn between $100,000 and $160,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in cloud computing or enterprise systems can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $180,000. Compensation may also include bonuses and benefits based on project scope and company size.

What is the difference between Software System Architect vs Software Developer?

AspectSoftware System ArchitectSoftware Developer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Computer Science, certifications like TOGAF or AWSBachelor's in Computer Science or related field, coding certifications optional
Work EnvironmentDesigning system architecture, collaborating with stakeholders, high-level planningWriting, testing, and maintaining code, implementing features
Industry UsageUsed across tech, finance, healthcare for system designCommon in software companies, startups, tech firms

The Software System Architect focuses on designing overall system structures and ensuring scalability, while the Software Developer implements these designs through coding. Both roles require technical expertise, but the architect has a broader strategic focus, whereas the developer concentrates on building and maintaining software components.

What's the salary of a software architect?

The salary of a software system architect typically ranges from $100,000 to $160,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior architects with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher compensation, often exceeding $180,000. Salaries may also include bonuses and benefits based on company size and performance.

What is a Software System Architect?

A Software System Architect is a professional responsible for designing the overall structure and high-level components of complex software systems. They define the system's architecture, make key technical decisions, and ensure that solutions meet both technical and business requirements. Software System Architects work closely with stakeholders, developers, and other IT professionals to create scalable, reliable, and secure systems. Their role often involves evaluating new technologies, setting standards, and providing technical guidance throughout a project's lifecycle.

What does a software system architect do?

A software system architect designs and oversees the structure of complex software systems, ensuring they meet technical requirements and business goals. They analyze system needs, select appropriate technologies, create architecture diagrams, and collaborate with development teams to implement scalable and maintainable solutions. Strong knowledge of software design principles, modeling tools, and communication skills are essential for this role.

How does a Software System Architect typically collaborate with development and operations teams during a project?

A Software System Architect works closely with both development and operations teams throughout the lifecycle of a project. They facilitate communication by translating business requirements into technical designs and ensuring all teams understand the system architecture. Architects often lead design reviews, provide technical guidance during implementation, and oversee system integration to ensure alignment with architectural standards. This collaborative approach helps prevent miscommunication, promotes scalability, and ensures that deployment and maintenance processes are efficient and reliable.

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

To thrive as a Software System Architect, you need deep expertise in software engineering, systems design, and architectural frameworks, usually supported by a degree in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with modeling tools (e.g., UML), cloud platforms, and certifications like TOGAF or AWS Certified Solutions Architect are highly valuable. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and the ability to collaborate across technical and business teams distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are crucial for designing robust, scalable systems that align with organizational goals and adapt to evolving technology landscapes.

Is software architect a high paying job?

Software architects typically earn high salaries due to their advanced technical skills, experience, and responsibility for designing complex systems. Salaries can vary based on location, industry, and company size but generally rank among the higher-paying roles in the tech field. Certifications and expertise in tools like cloud platforms or architecture frameworks can also influence compensation.
What states have the most Software System Architect jobs? States with the most job openings for Software System Architect jobs include:
Infographic showing various Software System Architect job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 94% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $149,055 per year, or $71.7 per hour.
Software System Architect

Software System Architect

General Motors

Milford, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


General Motors rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

General Motors

Based on 304 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Automakers average

Based on 6,256 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Description
Work Arrangement:
Hybrid: This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the successful candidate is expected to report to Milford, Michigan three times per week, at minimum.
The Role:
GM is undergoing a major transformation-reimagining how we operate and shaping the future of transportation through electrification, autonomous technology, and software-defined vehicles. At the heart of this transformation is our Vehicle Mechatronics Embedded Controls (VMEC) team, leading the charge with high-impact innovation and cutting-edge software development.
We are looking for a high performing Senior Software System Architect to lead and mentor the VMEC software organization in developing high quality, well architected software for present and future vehicles. In this role, you will be collaborating cross functionally and lead Product Engineering / Agile Release Team (ART) in both strategic and tactical manner on software design, construction, architecture, maintenance, quality and computing foundations.
What You'll Do:
  • Define a high-level architectural design for the software owned by the Agile Release Train (ART), comprehending all NFRs and future technical directions thereby enabling the Continuous Delivery Pipeline.
  • Lead creation of new components, re-architecting software for evolving requirement and improve quality, maintainability, and scalability.
  • Develop the architectural runway for the ART, comprehending all Enabler Epics, Business Epics, and all System Architect variant architectural roadmaps.
  • Drive software quality improvements into the software owned by the ART with a focus on Software Structural Quality Assurance (SSQA) and evaluating code for controller resource improvements.
  • Support Agile framework related planning and work acceptance meetings (PI, Pre-PI, Post-PI, system demos, I&A, architecture sync, etc.)
  • Drive alignment with other Software System Architects and System Architect variants.
  • Establish Software Non-Functional Requirements (NFRs) and participate in the definition of the NFRs for the other System Architect variants.
  • Work with the PMT and operate within an economic framework to analyze the impact of design decisions and help plan both business and enabler work.
  • Break large architectural initiatives into features and stories that can be executed in the 2-week sprint increments.
  • Work with the ART Manager/lead to add architectural items to the Definition of Done which affects the acceptance of stories.
  • Drive organization toward compliance with GM software guidelines/standards/processes and Industry Standards (MISRA/CERT C)
  • Improve the software and software architecture knowledge of the team. Host Lunch and learns, train and mentor software developers.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Your Skills & Abilities (Required Qualifications):
  • BS in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Aerospace Engineering required.
  • 5+ years of experience demonstrating technical and professional skills in job-related area required.
  • Good understanding of software development process and best practices.
  • Proficient in C/C++ or similar programming language.
  • Proficiency in embedded controls and software architecture and design trade-offs.
  • High level of interpersonal skills to work independently and effectively with others.
  • Ability to think critically and provide effective solution to complex issue.
  • Ability to prioritize work with only limited direction from manager.
  • Ability to train/mentor others.
  • High level of oral and written communication skills. Ability to communicate intent to leadership and technical details to executing teams.

What Will Give You A Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications):
  • MS in Computer Engineering, or Computer Science, Electrical Engineering preferred.
  • 8+ years of experience demonstrating technical and professional skills in job-related area required.
  • Experience with architecture design, controller resource utilization reduction, or training.
  • Experience successfully leading activities/projects with high levels of ambiguity.
  • 3+ years' experience in C/C++ Programming.
  • 2+ years' experience in embedded controls and software.
  • Experience working in Agile Environment.
  • Familiarity with SDV Architecture.
This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the selected candidate is expected to report to a specific location at least 3 times a week {or other frequency dictated by their manager}.This job may be eligible for relocation benefits.
About GM
Our vision is a world with Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions and Zero Congestion and we embrace the responsibility to lead the change that will make our world better, safer and more equitable for all.
Why Join Us
We believe we all must make a choice every day - individually and collectively - to drive meaningful change through our words, our deeds and our culture. Every day, we want every employee to feel they belong to one General Motors team.
Benefits Overview
From day one, we're looking out for your well-being-at work and at home-so you can focus on realizing your ambitions. Learn how GM supports a rewarding career that rewards you personally by visiting Total Rewards resources.
Non-Discrimination and Equal Employment Opportunities (U.S.)
General Motors is committed to being a workplace that is not only free of unlawful discrimination, but one that genuinely fosters inclusion and belonging. We strongly believe that providing an inclusive workplace creates an environment in which our employees can thrive and develop better products for our customers.
All employment decisions are made on a non-discriminatory basis without regard to sex, race, color, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, disability, pregnancy or maternity status, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran or protected veteran, or any other similarly protected status in accordance with federal, state and local laws.
We encourage interested candidates to review the key responsibilities and qualifications for each role and apply for any positions that match their skills and capabilities. Applicants in the recruitment process may be required, where applicable, to successfully complete a role-related assessment(s) and/or a pre-employment screening prior to beginning employment. To learn more, visit How we Hire.
Accommodations
General Motors offers opportunities to all job seekers including individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, emailus or call us at 1-800-865-7580. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition number of the position for which you are applying.

Working at General Motors


What General Motors employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


General Motors logo

About General Motors

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

General Motors is a company with global scale and capabilities, headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, with employees around the world. The company employs over 165,000 people, serves six continents, operates across 22 time zones, and has a diverse workforce speaking 75 languages1. GM’s vision is to drive the world forward by pioneering innovations that move and connect people to what matters. The company is working towards an all-electric future with its new Ultium Platform and is pushing transportation options beyond our wildest imaginations with autonomous vehicles. GM is also committed to becoming the most inclusive company in the world.

Industry

Transportation equipment manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Detroit, MI, US

Year founded

1908