Systems Architect SME with Security Clearance

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking a Systems Architect SME to support a company focused on delivering large-scale federal modernization and transformation initiatives. This position is on-site at Huntsville, AL. The Systems Architect SME will provide enterprise-level technical leadership, architecture strategy, and modernization guidance across mission-critical systems, ensuring scalable, secure, and cloud-aligned solutions. Join a high-impact program driving the modernization of critical federal systems through innovative architecture, cloud transformation, and engineering excellence. Responsibilities for the Systems Architect SME include:

• Lead enterprise architecture strategy, technical roadmaps, modernization frameworks, and system-wide design standards
• Architect end-to-end solutions across application, cloud, data, integration, and security domains
• Establish architectural governance, conduct design reviews, and provide technical oversight to engineering teams
• Partner with DevSecOps, cloud, software engineering, QA, product, and platform teams to support delivery and integration efforts
• Develop architecture documentation, technical specifications, decision records, and leadership-level briefings while ensuring compliance, security, and performance objectives

Required Qualifications for the Systems Architect SME include:

• 12+ years of experience in enterprise architecture, software engineering, systems engineering, or large-scale solution design
• Extensive experience with cloud platforms (AWS preferred), microservices, distributed systems, API architecture, DevSecOps, and CI/CD environments
• Strong leadership, technical governance, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field
• Active Top Secret Security Clearance and U.S. Citizenship required

Compensation for the Systems Architect SME include:

• Salary Range: $190,000 - $205,000 annually depending on experience
• Full Benefits Package: PTO, Paid Holidays, Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, Tuition Reimbursement, Sick Leave as required by law

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