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System Architect Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Industry/Sector Not Applicable Specialism Application / Solution Architecture Management Level Director & Summary The Opportunity As a Core Banking System Architect - Director, you will design and ...

Classified system architect experience (NGA, NRO, ect.) Preferred: * Cloud experience; focus on Innovation/Modernizing legacy systems. Why Work for Us? Core4ce is a team of innovators, self-starters ...

Systems Architect

Springfield, VA · On-site

$180K - $215K/yr

Classified system architect experience (NGA, NRO, ect.) Preferred: * Cloud experience; focus on Innovation/Modernizing legacy systems. Why Work for Us? Core4ce is a team of innovators, self-starters ...

Expert Systems Architect 112-208

Springfield, VA · On-site

$253K/yr

Expert System Architects assist in leading the design and development of solutions for complex applications problems, API design, data services, platform services, cloud services and infrastructure ...

Systems Architect

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$274K/yr

The System Architect designs and maintains the enterprise solution architecture supporting PeopleSoft environments across multiple cloud domains. This role ensures secure integration, system ...

The System Architect designs and maintains the enterprise solution architecture supporting PeopleSoft environments across multiple cloud domains. This role ensures secure integration, system ...

Systems Architect

Mclean, VA · On-site

$245K/yr

The System Architect designs and maintains the enterprise solution architecture supporting PeopleSoft environments across multiple cloud domains. This role ensures secure integration, system ...

Systems Architect

Mclean, VA · On-site

$245K/yr

Ability to Obtain Public Trust As a System Architect, you will lead the technical architecture, modernization, and continuous improvement of the Grants.gov platform and related solutions supporting ...

Showing results 41-60

System Architect information

See Virginia salary details

$85.8K

$222.4K

$241.4K

How much do system architect jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for system architect in Virginia is $222,409.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $240,900.00 and $240,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a system architect a stressful job?

A system architect role can be stressful due to the responsibility of designing complex systems, meeting project deadlines, and coordinating with multiple teams. The job often requires strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage high-pressure situations, especially in fast-paced or large-scale environments.

How much do system architects make in the US?

System architects in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $120,000, with experienced professionals earning over $150,000. Salaries vary based on experience, industry, location, and certifications such as TOGAF or AWS certifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a system architect, and why are they important?

To thrive as a System Architect, you need a deep understanding of system design, software engineering principles, and often a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with architectural frameworks (such as TOGAF), modeling tools (like UML), and cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure), as well as relevant certifications, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and leadership abilities help System Architects translate business requirements into technical solutions and guide development teams. These skills are crucial for creating scalable, secure, and efficient systems that align with organizational goals.

What does a system architect do?

A system architect designs and oversees the structure of complex IT systems, ensuring they meet business requirements and are scalable, reliable, and secure. They analyze system needs, create technical specifications, and coordinate with development teams, often using modeling tools and industry standards. Strong technical knowledge and communication skills are essential for this role.

Are system architects in demand?

System architects are in high demand due to the increasing complexity of IT infrastructure and the need for strategic technology planning. Organizations seek professionals with expertise in cloud computing, cybersecurity, and enterprise systems to design scalable and efficient solutions.

What is the difference between System Architect vs Network Architect?

AspectSystem ArchitectNetwork Architect
Required CredentialsBachelor's in CS, IT, or related; certifications like TOGAF, AWSBachelor's in CS, IT, or related; Cisco certifications (CCNA, CCNP)
Work EnvironmentDesigns overall IT systems, collaborates with multiple teamsDesigns and implements network infrastructure, works closely with network teams
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across IT, software, and enterprise sectorsPrimarily in telecommunications, large enterprises, data centers
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for system design and architecture rolesCompared for network infrastructure planning roles

While both roles involve designing technical infrastructure, a System Architect focuses on overall IT systems and software solutions, whereas a Network Architect specializes in designing and implementing network infrastructure. Both require strong technical skills and certifications, but their focus areas and work environments differ significantly.

How does a system architect typically collaborate with other teams during a project lifecycle?

System Architects play a central role in bridging technical and business teams throughout a project's lifecycle. They work closely with stakeholders to understand requirements, coordinate with developers to ensure technical feasibility, and consult with operations teams to plan for deployment and maintenance. Regular meetings, documentation reviews, and design workshops are common ways System Architects maintain alignment and ensure the system's architecture meets both functional and non-functional needs. Successful collaboration often relies on strong communication skills and a deep understanding of both business goals and technical constraints.
What cities in Virginia are hiring for System Architect jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most System Architect job openings:
Infographic showing various System Architect job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $222,409 per year, or $106.9 per hour.

Space-Based Radar System Architect

The Aerospace Corporation

Chantilly, VA

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation's space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space- delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you'll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.

The National Systems Group serves as the technical advisor to the Intelligence Community and its mission partners involved in the collection and distribution of national and tactical intelligence, including electronics programs, advanced technologies, ground and communications, imagery programs, and systems engineering and launch.

The GEOINT Innovations Office (GIO) under the National Systems Group (NSG) Imagery Programs Division (IPD) serves as technical adviser to the government's future architecture, research, and technology development offices as well as commercial data acquisition. The Future Architectures Department within GIO seeks a Space-Based Radar System Architect (Project Engineer/Senior Project Engineer - Signal and Image Processing). The department uses modeling and simulation approaches and mission knowledge to provide technical recommendations and solutions for GEOINT systems. As a Space-Based Radar System Architect, you will lead Aerospace activities that help Government customers define future Radar architecture, advance capabilities, and develop CONOPs using Aerospace's modeling and simulation capabilities. Your work will directly influence budget and acquisition decisions for the next generation GEOINT space architecture. You will communicate programmatic and technical risks and opportunities to Aerospace management, Government customers, and contractors. For a Senior Project Engineer role, you must also work within Aerospace and across programmatic boundaries to enable Aerospace contributions to the GEOINT and Future Architectures enterprise.

This position requires 100% on site work in Chantilly, VA.

What You'll Be Doing

  • Lead and coordinate domain experts from Aerospace's Engineering Matrix organization to perform design trades at the payload, vehicle, and constellation level in the evaluation of future GEOINT architectures for performance, user requirements satisfaction, and mission utility
  • Review contractor concept proposals and independently evaluate system capabilities against user needs to highlight opportunities and risks to the Government
  • Communicate programmatic and technical issues and provide independent recommendations to Aerospace management, the Government customer and other contractors
  • Respond to urgent technical questions originating from multiple agencies (NRO, NGA, ODNI, DoW), NRO Leadership, and Congress
  • Provide daily organization and technical oversight for task execution, managing pertinent budgets, regularly communicate status and findings to customer counterparts and management.
  • Serve as advisor and mentor to SETA, Aerospace, and Customer representatives as they learn technical aspects of program execution
  • Work in a fast-paced environment with many interesting technical challenges that require strategy, critical thinking and collaboration to provide solutions

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements for the: Project Engineer - Signal and Image Processing

  • Bachelor's OR Advanced degree in mathematics, physics, electrical engineering or related technical discipline
  • A minimum of 6 years of experience post-bachelor degree
  • Technical experience in architecture modeling, orbital mechanics, and space systems
  • Familiarity with remote sensing radar or RF mission payloads
  • This position requires a current and active TS/SSBI/SCI security clearance along with a polygraph, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.

In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for the Senior Project Engineer - Signal & Image Process Engineering include:

  • A minimum of 12 years of experience
  • Strong understanding of Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR)systems
  • Ability to lead multi-disciplinary technical teams and integrate their results into decision-driving products

How You Can Stand Out

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:

  • Advanced degree in engineering, science, mathematics, or related field
  • Strong understanding of GEOINT architectures, Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) and Moving Target Indication(MTI)
  • Experience in planning or conducting architectural and optimization trade-studies
  • Experience developing visualizations using modeling and simulation software to depict constellations and architectures
  • Program Office experience working directly with contractors, SETA, and government customers
  • Experience working within the intelligence community and advising senior officials
  • Prior experience working in an engineering matrix that supports program office and customer senior leadership

We offer a competitive compensation package where you'll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.

(Min - Max)

$129,000.00 - $249,600.00Pay Basis: Annual

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:

  • Operate Strategically
  • Lead Change
  • Engage with Impact
  • Foster Innovation
  • Deliver Results

Ways We Reward Our Employees

During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.

Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:

  • Comprehensive health care and wellness plans

  • Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

  • Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options

  • 401(k) Plan - Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire

  • Flexible spending accounts

  • Variable pay program for exceptional contributions

  • Relocation assistance

  • Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career

  • Education assistance programs

  • An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other-the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

The Aerospace Corporation is an equalopportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color,religion,geneticinformation, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by emailatpeoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org .You can also reviewKnow Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.