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Systems Architect Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

The Systems Architect provides independent technical oversight of infrastructure, cloud, security, and configuration management activities. The architect advises NIH leadership and reviews work ...

Systems Architect

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$274K/yr

Systems Architect: At B&A, we foster and embrace a distinct set of values that we live by and instill in all aspects of our organization: dedication, commitment, partnership, trust, and recognition.

Systems Architect

Rockville, MD · On-site

$130 - $216/hr

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

Systems Architect

Springfield, VA · On-site

$140 - $190/hr

We are seeking an experienced Systems Architect to design and optimize system integrations, ensuring efficient data flow and improved overall architecture performance. This role requires extensive ...

New

Systems Architect

Rockville, MD · On-site

$247K/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 ...

Systems Architect

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$110 - $150/hr

Holds or is working toward architecture or systems engineering certifications appropriate for Government environments, such as TOGAF, DoDAF, AWS Solutions Architect (Associate), or equivalent ...

Systems Architect

Springfield, VA · On-site

$180K - $215K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Systems Architect to design and optimize system integrations, ensuring efficient data flow and improved overall architecture performance. This role requires extensive ...

Systems Architect

Mclean, VA

$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 ...

Systems Architect

Herndon, VA · On-site

$135K - $216K/yr

The Systems Architect will: * Lead Application Design: * Oversee the design and development of applications with state-of-the-art cloud-based architectures and tools. * Address advanced performance ...

Systems Architect

Herndon, VA

$249K/yr

The Systems Architect will: * Lead Application Design: * Oversee the design and development of applications with state-of-the-art cloud-based architectures and tools. * Address advanced performance ...

Systems Architect

Rockville, MD · On-site

$165K - $185K/yr

The Systems Architect provides independent technical oversight of infrastructure, cloud, security, and configuration management activities. The architect advises NIH leadership and reviews work ...

Systems Architect

Herndon, VA · On-site

$249K/yr

The Systems Architect will: * Lead Application Design: * Oversee the design and development of applications with state-of-the-art cloud-based architectures and tools. * Address advanced performance ...

Systems Architect

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$260K/yr

Systems Architect Job Category: Information Technology Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance Required to Start: TS/SCI with Polygraph Employee Type: Regular Percentage of Travel Required: None Type ...

Systems Architect

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$190 - $200/hr

To support this mission, we are seeking a Systems Architect to provide critical support to a Community-of-Interest (COI) as they navigate the transition from on-premises environments to a ...

Systems Architect

Rockville, MD · On-site

$165K - $185K/yr

The Systems Architect provides independent technical oversight of infrastructure, cloud, security, and configuration management activities. The architect advises NIH leadership and reviews work ...

Systems Architect

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$190 - $200/hr

To support this mission, we are seeking a Systems Architect to provide critical support to a Community-of-Interest (COI) as they navigate the transition from on-premises environments to a ...

Systems Architect

Washington, DC · On-site

$275K/yr

The Systems Architect will support Barrow Wise's WMATA project and perform the following duties: * Experience in data architecture for large scale enterprise in private/federal/state agencies

Systems Architect

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$259K/yr

... System Architecture, Software Architecture and Enterprise Architecture diagrams and associated technical specifications • Thorough experience with ServiceNow Configuration Management Database (CMDB ...

Systems Architect

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$120 - $150/hr

Strategic Architecture & Design: * Support the research, design, development, and maintenance of complex systems spanning all network fabrics. * Review proposed technical solutions and architectures ...

Systems Architect

Mclean, VA · On-site

$246K/yr

ETalentNetwork is seeking a Systems Architect to join their team. The role involves designing and implementing system architectures to meet business needs and improve operational efficiency.

Showing results 21-40

Systems Architect information

See Washington salary details

$98K

$254.1K

$275.8K

How much do systems architect jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for systems architect in Washington is $254,079.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $275,200.00 and $275,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a systems architect?

A systems architect is responsible for the design of complex network and database systems that support a company’s daily functions and activities. As a systems architect, your duties are to study your company’s use cases, design computer network systems that meet those needs, optimize existing systems architecture, troubleshoot and fix issues, and collaborate with other systems architects and software engineers on project development and implementation. Your work includes system servers, databases, software applications, and more. You need a strong computer engineering background to be an effective systems architect.

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

To thrive as a Systems Architect, you need expertise in systems design, enterprise architecture frameworks, and a strong background in computer science or IT, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with tools like UML, TOGAF, cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure), and certifications such as AWS Certified Solutions Architect are typically required. Outstanding problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills help in translating business requirements into technical solutions and collaborating across teams. These competencies are crucial for designing scalable, secure, and efficient systems that align with organizational goals.

How does a systems architect typically collaborate with other IT teams during large-scale projects?

A Systems Architect works closely with various IT teams such as software developers, network engineers, and project managers to ensure that system designs align with organizational goals and technical requirements. They often facilitate communication between stakeholders, translate business needs into technical specifications, and oversee the integration of different system components. Regular meetings, design reviews, and documentation updates are common, helping to identify potential issues early and maintain alignment across the project lifecycle. This collaborative approach is crucial for delivering scalable, reliable, and secure systems.

What is the difference between Systems Architect vs Network Engineer?

AspectSystems ArchitectNetwork Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in CS or IT, certifications like TOGAF, AWS, or Cisco (CCNA)Bachelor's in CS, IT, or related field, Cisco certifications (CCNA, CCNP)
Work EnvironmentDesigning and planning overall system architecture, collaborating with multiple teamsImplementing, configuring, and maintaining network infrastructure
Employer & Industry UsageTech firms, large enterprises, consultingTelecom, data centers, enterprise networks
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding role differences, career paths, required skillsComparing network roles, certifications, responsibilities

While both roles require technical expertise and certifications, a Systems Architect focuses on designing comprehensive IT systems and infrastructure, whereas a Network Engineer specializes in implementing and managing network hardware and connectivity. The choice depends on whether you prefer system design or network implementation within the IT field.

Are systems architects in demand?

Systems architects are in high demand due to the increasing complexity of IT infrastructure and the need for integrated technology solutions. They typically require strong technical skills, knowledge of cloud platforms, and certifications such as TOGAF or AWS Certified Solutions Architect. The role is expected to grow as organizations continue to invest in digital transformation.

What are the most commonly searched types of Systems Architect jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Systems Architect jobs in Washington are:

Infographic showing various Systems Architect job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 88% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $254,079 per year, or $122.2 per hour.

$165K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

The Systems Architect provides independent technical oversight of infrastructure, cloud, security, and configuration management activities. The architect advises NIH leadership and reviews work performed by hosting, operations, maintenance, and security teams.

The architect does not perform routine system administration, production configuration, or code deployment. The architect evaluates technical activities, identifies risks, and recommends corrective or preventive actions.

Primary Responsibilities

  • Review Oracle Cloud Infrastructure architectures, configurations, and planned changes.
  • Assess infrastructure designs for security, availability, performance, scalability, and maintainability.
  • Review cloud hosting, network, identity, access, logging, monitoring, backup, and recovery controls.
  • Evaluate configuration changes before or after implementation, as directed.
  • Confirm that teams document approved configurations and operational procedures.
  • Review the transition of completed projects into operations and maintenance.
  • Verify that O&M documentation reflects current configurations and operating practices.
  • Assess infrastructure and security risks affecting internal NIH applications.
  • Review compliance with NIH, HHS, federal, and program technical standards.
  • Evaluate vulnerabilities, proposed remediations, and risk-response activities.
  • Identify architecture gaps, technical debt, unsupported components, and operational dependencies.
  • Review incidents and root-cause analyses involving infrastructure or security.
  • Conduct technical market research and alternatives analyses.
  • Recommend infrastructure, security, and cloud investments.
  • Present findings, risks, and recommendations to NIH leadership.
  • Collaborate with Government personnel and contractors without assuming an operational delivery role.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, information systems, engineering, cybersecurity, or a related field.
  • At least 10 years of relevant infrastructure, cloud, security, or systems architecture experience.
  • At least five years of experience as a systems, infrastructure, cloud, or security architect.
  • Experience reviewing enterprise systems hosted in Oracle Cloud Infrastructure.
  • Knowledge of cloud networking, identity management, encryption, monitoring, backup, and disaster recovery.
  • Knowledge of security architecture, configuration management, and vulnerability management.
  • Experience evaluating contractor technical performance and deliverables.
  • Experience preparing architecture findings, risk assessments, and executive recommendations.
  • Ability to work independently and communicate with technical and nontechnical stakeholders.
  • Experience supporting federal or other regulated environments.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Oracle Cloud Infrastructure certification.
  • Security certification such as CISSP, CCSP, or equivalent.
  • Experience with federal financial, acquisition, or administrative systems.
  • Knowledge of NIST publications, FISMA, FedRAMP, and federal security controls.
  • Experience with Oracle databases, Oracle Application Express, or related Oracle technologies.
  • Experience reviewing insider-threat protections and privileged-user activity.
  • NIH or HHS experience.

Compensation

Salary Range: $165,000 - $185,000 annually (commensurate with experience)
Benefits: Health, dental, and vision insurance; 401(k) with employer match; paid time off; professional development opportunities.

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