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Software System Architecture Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Software System Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$178K - $211K/yr

Assess alignment of software solutions with mission objectives and enterprise architecture * Mentor ... Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related field

Software System Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$178K - $211K/yr

Assess alignment of software solutions with mission objectives and enterprise architecture * Mentor ... Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related field

System Architecture Design * Define overall system architecture and component structure * Design APIs, interfaces, and integration points between components * Create architectural diagrams ...

Software Systems Engineer

Hazelwood, MO · On-site

$163K - $193K/yr

Drive TMP software architecture, design, and approach through Software system and subsystem component documentation development, selection, tailoring and deployment, tools, and metrics * Accuracy and ...

Software Systems Engineer

Hazelwood, MO · On-site

$163K - $193K/yr

Drive TMP software architecture, design, and approach through Software system and subsystem component documentation development, selection, tailoring and deployment, tools, and metrics * Accuracy and ...

Software Systems Engineer

Hazelwood, MO · On-site

$163K - $193K/yr

Drive TMP software architecture, design, and approach through Software system and subsystem component documentation development, selection, tailoring and deployment, tools, and metrics * Accuracy and ...

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Software System Architecture information

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$57

$71

$102

How much do software system architecture jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for software system architecture 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.

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 a deep understanding of software design principles, systems engineering, and experience with multiple programming languages, often supported by a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with architectural frameworks (like TOGAF), modeling tools (such as UML), and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure) is typically required, and certifications in these areas are advantageous. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and leadership skills help you collaborate with stakeholders and guide development teams. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure scalable, robust system designs that meet business objectives and technological requirements.

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. Compensation varies by industry, location, and company size but generally exceeds average software development roles. Certifications and expertise in cloud platforms or enterprise architecture can further increase earning potential.

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, create architecture diagrams, select appropriate technologies, and coordinate development teams to implement scalable and efficient solutions. Strong knowledge of software design principles, modeling tools, and communication skills are essential for this role.

What is software system architecture?

Software system architecture refers to the high-level structure of a software system, outlining how its components interact and how data flows between them. It serves as a blueprint for both the system and the project, guiding the development, integration, and maintenance of software solutions. System architects make key decisions about the organization of code, technologies used, patterns applied, and scalability and security considerations. Good software architecture helps ensure that a system is reliable, maintainable, and able to meet future requirements.

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 company size and complexity of projects.

What does a Software Architect work?

A Software Architect designs and oversees the overall structure of software systems, ensuring they meet technical and business requirements. They create architecture diagrams, select appropriate technologies, and collaborate with development teams to implement scalable and maintainable solutions. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of design patterns are essential in this role.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Software System Architecture roles, and how can they be addressed?

One of the main challenges in Software System Architecture is balancing the need for scalability, security, and performance while meeting tight project deadlines. Architects must often make critical decisions with incomplete information and ensure alignment among cross-functional teams like developers, testers, and product managers. Effective communication, staying updated with emerging technologies, and leveraging architectural frameworks can help address these challenges. Regular collaboration and feedback sessions also ensure that architectural decisions align with business goals and technical constraints.

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

AspectSoftware System ArchitectureSoftware Developer
Primary FocusDesigning overall system structure and high-level architectureWriting, testing, and maintaining code for specific features
Required SkillsSystem design, architecture patterns, technical leadershipProgramming languages, debugging, implementation skills
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with stakeholders, architects, and development teamsFocuses on coding within development teams
CertificationsOften includes TOGAF, AWS Certified Solutions ArchitectIncludes certifications like Microsoft Certified, Oracle Java

While Software System Architects focus on designing the overall system structure and ensuring scalability and performance, Software Developers implement these designs by coding and testing individual components. Both roles are essential in the software development lifecycle but differ in scope and responsibilities.

More about Software System Architecture jobs
What states have the most Software System Architecture jobs? States with the most job openings for Software System Architecture jobs include:
Infographic showing various Software System Architecture job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $149,055 per year, or $71.7 per hour.
Director, System Architecture & Integration

Director, System Architecture & Integration

General Motors

Warren, MI • On-site

$156K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


General Motors rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 305 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 44 rated automakers


Job description

Job Description

Director, System Architecture & Integration

We are seeking a Director of System Architecture and Integration to own the architecture of ARC's robotics and automation solutions and to drive the integration of technologies from across our engineering groups into deployable products. This is a hands-on technical leadership role at the center of how ARC turns capabilities into systems that run in production.

You will define the system architecture and the interfaces between subsystems, lead the engineering of the physical embodiments of those solutions, and hold accountability for integrating software, hardware, controls, robotics, and perception into a coherent whole that meets our standard: zero programming, zero commissioning, zero incidents.

You will set the architectural direction and guide it to decisions the engineering teams can build against. You will work across software, hardware, controls, robotics, and machine vision teams to resolve interface ownership, close technical gaps, and ensure the integrated system performs in environments that demand 24/7 production with no faults.

What you'll own

System-level architecture for ARC solutions, including subsystem decomposition and the interface definitions that hold the system together
Engineering of the embodiments of those solutions, from architecture through realized, integrated hardware and software
Integration of technologies developed by separate engineering groups (software, hardware, controls, robotics, perception) into unified, deployable products
Architectural decisions and trade-offs across disciplines, with clear ownership rather than open-ended description
Robustness and reliability of the integrated system in continuous, fault-intolerant production settings
Technical alignment across teams, translating solution-level goals into concrete subsystem requirements and holding the interfaces between them
The architectural standards, reference models, and review practices that keep solutions coherent as they scale across products and plants

What you bring

Demonstrated ability to architect and integrate complex multidisciplinary systems, not just lead within a single discipline
Working fluency across software design and hardware design
Hands-on experience with industrial controls and PLCs
Direct experience with industrial robotics and machine vision
A track record of deploying solutions into environments that require 24/7 uptime with zero tolerance for faults
The judgment to make architectural decisions under ambiguity and the credibility to align engineering groups behind them

Required qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Robotics, Mechatronics, or a related technical field
10+ years of engineering experience, with 5+ years architecting or integrating multidisciplinary systems that combine software, hardware, and controls
Demonstrated experience defining system architecture and interface specifications across subsystems and engineering disciplines
Hands-on experience with industrial controls and PLC platforms (for example Allen-Bradley / Rockwell, Siemens, or Beckhoff)
Direct experience with industrial robotics (for example Fanuc, ABB, KUKA, Universal Robots) and machine vision systems
Proven delivery of automation or robotics solutions into production environments with 24/7 uptime requirements and low tolerance for faults
Experience leading and developing engineers, and aligning multiple teams behind a shared technical direction

Preferred qualifications

Master's degree in a relevant engineering or robotics discipline
Experience with ROS / ROS2 and modern robotics software stacks
Familiarity with functional safety standards relevant to industrial robotics and automation (for example ISO 10218, ISO/TS 15066, IEC 61508)
Experience with simulation, digital twin, or virtual commissioning tools
Experience taking solutions from prototype to productized, repeatable deployment across multiple sites

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, email us 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.


What General Motors employees say

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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