1

Software Systems Architect Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Software Architect - Systems Location: Austin, TX ABOUT WIND RIVER Wind River is a global leader in delivering software for mission-critical intelligent systems. For more than four decades, the ...

Systems Architect

West Sacramento, CA · On-site

$252K/yr

Systems Architect Location: West Sacramento, CA Duration: Long term BACKGROUND Our client recently ... software application designer/developer, etc. 2. At least ten (10) years of experience ...

Systems Architect

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$130K - $260K/yr

Systems Architect Application Deadline: 14 July 2026 Department: Data Analysis and Technology ... This role is ideal for someone with 10+ years of software development, deep Linux engineering ...

BlackSky is looking for a talented software system architect, in support of the Chief Technology Office to help shape and drive the realization of future BlackSky space vehicle ground segment ...

Systems Architect

Dayton, OH · Hybrid

$229K/yr

Defines and manages IT and software integration plans * Perform systems architecture definition to enable well managed, coherent, low-risk, secure, and comprehensive technical solutions and ...

Systems Architect

Dayton, OH · On-site

$236K/yr

Architect solutions involving cloud platforms, enterprise IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, networking, software systems, and mission applications * Conduct technical trade studies, risk analyses ...

Systems Architect

Dayton, OH

$236K/yr

Architect solutions involving cloud platforms, enterprise IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, networking, software systems, and mission applications * Conduct technical trade studies, risk analyses ...

Systems Architect

Dayton, OH · Hybrid

$229K/yr

Defines and manages IT and software integration plans * Perform systems architecture definition to enable well managed, coherent, low-risk, secure, and comprehensive technical solutions and ...

Systems Architect

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$248K/yr

... for a Systems Architect with strong, handson experience designing and building modern software ... This role is ideal for someone with 10+ years of software development, deep Linux engineering ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Software Systems Architect information

See salary details

$57

$71

$102

How much do software systems architect jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for software systems 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.

What is the difference between Software Systems Architect vs Software Engineer?

AspectSoftware Systems ArchitectSoftware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in CS or related, often with certifications like TOGAFBachelor's or Master's in CS or related, coding certifications optional
Work EnvironmentDesigning system architecture, collaborating with stakeholdersWriting, testing, and maintaining code
Industry UsageUsed in enterprise and large-scale system developmentUsed across startups, tech companies, and software firms

The Software Systems Architect focuses on designing overall system structures and ensuring scalability, while the Software Engineer implements and maintains the codebase. Both roles require technical expertise, but the architect's role is more strategic and design-oriented, whereas the engineer's role is more hands-on with coding and development tasks.

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.

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 industry, location, and company size but generally rank among the higher-paying roles in the tech field.

What does a software system architect do?

A software systems architect designs and oversees the structure of complex software systems, ensuring they meet technical requirements and are scalable, reliable, and maintainable. They analyze business needs, select appropriate technologies, create architectural diagrams, and collaborate with development teams throughout the project lifecycle.

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

A Software Systems Architect plays a central role in bridging the gap between development and operations teams by establishing clear technical guidelines, system requirements, and architectural standards. Throughout the project lifecycle, they facilitate regular meetings to align on system design, integration points, and performance expectations. They also provide support during implementation by reviewing code and ensuring architectural consistency, and they work closely with operations to address scalability, deployment, and maintenance considerations. This collaborative approach ensures the final product meets both business objectives and technical quality standards.

What does a Software Systems Architect do?

A Software Systems Architect is responsible for designing and overseeing the overall structure of complex software systems. They create high-level architectural plans, select appropriate technologies, and ensure that the system's components work together efficiently. Their role involves collaborating with stakeholders, developers, and engineers to translate business requirements into technical solutions while ensuring scalability, security, and maintainability. Software Systems Architects play a crucial role in guiding the technical direction of projects and making key decisions that affect the system’s performance and future growth.

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

To thrive as a Software Systems Architect, you need deep knowledge of software design principles, system integration, and architecture frameworks, usually supported by a degree in computer science or related fields. Mastery of tools like UML, cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure), and familiarity with architectural frameworks such as TOGAF or Zachman, along with relevant certifications, is highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills set outstanding architects apart. These competencies are essential to create scalable, secure, and efficient systems that align with business goals and technical requirements.

What's the salary of a Software Architect?

The salary of a Software Systems Architect typically ranges from $100,000 to $160,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior roles with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher compensation, often exceeding $180,000. Factors such as company size and project complexity also influence salary levels.
Who are the top companies hiring for Software Systems Architect jobs? The top employers for Software Systems Architect jobs are:
What states have the most Software Systems Architect jobs? States with the most job openings for Software Systems Architect jobs include:
Infographic showing various Software Systems Architect job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $149,055 per year, or $71.7 per hour.
Software Systems Architect Manager - Space Protection Programs

Software Systems Architect Manager - Space Protection Programs

Lockheed Martin Corporation

Littleton, CO

Other

Posted 9 days ago


Lockheed Martin rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 388 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 60 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Space is a critical domain, connecting our technologies, our security and our humanity. While others view space as a destination, we see it as a realm of possibilities, where we can do more - we can innovate, invest, inspire and integrate our capabilities to transform the future.
At Lockheed Martin Space, we aim to harness the full potential of space to cultivate innovation, reduce costs, and push the boundaries of what technology can achieve. We're creating future-ready solutions, focusing on resiliency and urgency through our 21st Century Security vision. We're erasing boundaries and forming partnerships across industries and around the world. We're advancing spacecraft and the workforce to fuel the next generation. And we're reimagining how space can connect us, ensuring security and prosperity.
Join us in shaping a new era in space and find a career that's built for you.
Space Protection Programs (SPP) is seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Software Systems Architect Manager to lead the strategy and evolution of Spacecraft Flight Software (FSW) Systems across a multi-program portfolio.
This is a Level 5 technical leadership role responsible for driving system-level execution across software systems engineering, integration, test, and DevOps functions. The leader will oversee software focused Responsible Systems Engineers (RSEs), Component Engineers (CPEs), Software Architects, Software Systems engineers, Software Test engineers, and Agile/DevOps teams, ensuring aligned execution from requirements through integration and mission delivery.
This role operates in a mission-critical, highly integrated environment where success depends on disciplined execution, tight coordination across teams, and consistent delivery of integrated, verified capabilities.
The ideal candidate is a hands-on systems thinker and execution leader who energies strategic execution, thrives in complexity, drives clarity in ambiguous environments, and ensures engineering teams deliver integrated, mission-ready systems.
Key Responsibilities
Systems & Execution Leadership
Lead end-to-end execution of flight software systems engineering across multiple programs within the SPP portfolio
Ensure alignment between system architecture, requirements, verification strategy, and software execution
Integration, Verification & Delivery Ownership
Using SW RSEs and CPEs, drive resolution of integration issues across hardware, software, and external interfaces and ensure integration readiness and execution sequencing across development teams and programs
Oversee software verification and validation planning in coordination with systems engineering and test organizations
Agile Execution & Program Delivery
Train the team on Agile concepts supporting consistent execution cadences across teams, ensure backlogs reflect true system priorities, integration dependencies, and mission-critical sequencing
Support standardization of metrics and execution data to forecast delivery, identify risks, and manage program health
Leadership, Talent & Organizational Development
Lead workforce planning, staffing strategy, hiring decisions, and team growth across software architecture, software systems engineering, test, and DevOps functions
Foster a high-accountability execution culture focused on ownership, integration discipline, and delivery outcomes ensure engineering teams are aligned, engaged, and executing effectively within a complex multi-program environment

What Lockheed Martin employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Lockheed Martin logo

About Lockheed Martin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As a global security and aerospace company, the majority of Lockheed Martin's business is with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. federal government agencies.The remaining portion of Lockheed Martin's business is comprised of international government and commercial sales of products, services and platforms.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bethesda, MD, US

Year founded

1912