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Software System Architecture Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... systems architecture and design. * Design software using industry standard design patterns and best practices to improve maintainability, flexibility, performance, security, and availability.

Job Summary We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled System Architecture Engineer to join our ... Develop testautomation software to improve measurement accuracy and accelerate data collection.

Job Summary We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled System Architecture Engineer to join our ... Develop test-automation software to improve measurement accuracy and accelerate data collection.

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Software System Architecture information

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How much do software system architecture jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 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.

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 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.

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:
Software Systems Engineer

$168K - $199K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 24 days ago


General Dynamics Mission Systems rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

75th of 183 rated software companies


Job description

Requires a Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering, or a related Science, Engineering, Technology or Mathematics field. Also requires 2+ years of job-related experience, or a Master's degree and 6 months of job-related experience.

CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS: Ability to obtain a Department of Defense TS/SCI security clearance is required at time of hire. Applicants selected will be subject to a U.S. Government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Due to the nature of work performed within our facilities, U.S. citizenship is required.


ROLE AND POSITION OBJECTIVES:

Developing mission-critical systems that help keep people safe is what we do. At General Dynamics Mission Systems, you’ll be part of the team that helps heroes make a true impact. The work we do is important. The challenges we face are career-defining. The opportunity we can offer is one-of-a-kind.
As a Software Systems Engineer, you will provide architectural recommendations and design inputs to a cross functional team that develops complex software systems that support some of our nation’s core defense/intelligence services and systems. General Dynamics Mission Systems employees work closely with esteemed customers to develop solutions that allow them to carry out high-stakes national security missions.
The ideal candidate is a systems engineer with a strong software background and has experience on large solution programs which includes both Hardware and Software. We highly recommend you apply if you have any of the following job experience: Have worked as a Systems Engineer on a complex software system. Or is someone who understands DOD domain/programs well, has a demonstrated capability to think at a Systems Level, and has a growth mindset.

Our Software Systems Engineers typically work in the following areas:

  • Participate/Lead customer requirements analysis, develop system requirements and define allocations to lower levels (elements and components)
  • Perform functional analysis, performance analysis, system design, detail trade studies, systems integration and test, interface definition studies of subsystem or system elements
  • Support the generation of technical engineering products by using appropriate standards, processes, procedures, and tools throughout the system development life cycle
  • Develop software architecture artifacts that provide a common understanding of the solution behind complex systems to various stakeholders

REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES AND TASKS

  • Participate in and/or lead all phases of software system development by providing technical strategy, operational concept development, system architecture definition, requirements analysis, use cases, trade studies, and leadership throughout the product lifecycle.
  • Participate in new business pursuits by supporting briefings and demonstrations of our capabilities and supporting the proposal development process by preparing solutions, authoring technical content, providing cost estimates, participating in reviews, and helping to deliver the final proposal.
  • Be a clear and enthusiastic communicator to customers, users, subcontractors, and cross functional project teams to define, analyze, and meet project goals. You will coordinate across design, development, test, project leadership, program management, and customer representatives, creating a collaborative environment that focuses on the big picture.
  • Work towards a high-level vision while also understanding the importance of details. You will proactively identify and mitigate risks and define reasonable trade spaces from which the team can operate. 
  • Proactively define your own tasks and execute with little oversight. You will accomplish program goals despite obstacles, ambiguity, and changing requirements in a fast-paced environment.
  • Apply systems thinking to software, processes, people, and organizations. You will help harden software and processes into mature, mission-critical, “must-work” products.
  • Participate in and/or lead reviews of software systems and provide input on software design decisions based on your prior experience and familiarity with the problem domain, similar work, or related technologies.
  • Mentor and guide less experienced engineers, because you are motivated to improve our work environment and help others.

Other Beneficial Experience:

  • Use of Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) to document and support system requirements, design, and analysis.
  • Space domain experience
  • Experience working with, or familiarity with public (AWS, Azure), private (RHOSP, VIO), and mixed cloud environments
  • Platform as a Service (PaaS) technologies such as Identify and Access Management, Kubernetes, Rancher, Docker, or OpenShift
  • Cloud automation tooling such as Ansible, Terraform, Terragrunt, or Packer
  • Experience or familiarity with cyber security practices such as encryption, certificate/key management, patch management, STIG, RMF, or security hardening, and auditing
  • Multi-level security domain expertise (and cross-domain)
  • Experience or familiarity with DevOps concepts and practices

What sets you apart:

  • Creative thinker with demonstrated success leading the systems development life cycle
  • Collaborative team player eager to provide technical leadership and position others for success
  • Exceptional communication, presentation, and influence management skills, with notable record of securing buy-in on concepts and ideas
  • Experienced in the art of negotiation with ability to meet challenging customer requirements with win-win solutions
  • Commitment to ongoing professional development for yourself and others
  • Identifies opportunities to apply AI for continuous improvement and innovation

Our Commitment to You:

  • An exciting career path with opportunities for continuous learning and development. 
  • Research oriented work, alongside award winning teams developing practical solutions for our nation’s security
  • Flexible schedules with every other Friday off work, if desired (9/80 schedule)
  • Competitive benefits, including 401k matching, flex time off, paid parental leave, healthcare benefits, health & wellness programs, employee resource and social groups, and more
  • See more at gdmissionsystems.com/careers/why-work-for-us/benefits

Workplace Options:

This position is located in Pittsburgh PA. On site work is required and Hybrid/Flex work schedule is permitted. Please note that this position is not 100% remote.
While on-site, you will be a part of the Pittsburgh Office https://gdmissionsystems.com/about-us/major-locations/pittsburgh 

#LI-Hybrid

#SGS


This estimate represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors (geographic location, etc.). Actual pay may vary. This job posting will remain open until the position is filled.
USD $100,219.00 - USD $111,180.00 /Yr.

General Dynamics Mission Systems (GDMS) engineers a diverse portfolio of high technology solutions, products and services that enable customers to successfully execute missions across all domains of operation. With a global team of 12,000+ top professionals, we partner with the best in industry to expand the bounds of innovation in the defense and scientific arenas. Given the nature of our work and who we are, we value trust, honesty, alignment and transparency. We offer highly competitive benefits and pride ourselves in being a great place to work with a shared sense of purpose. You will also enjoy a flexible work environment where contributions are recognized and rewarded. If who we are and what we do resonates with you, we invite you to join our high-performance team!


Equal Opportunity Employer / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans


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