Senior Software Architect

Overview
Job Summary
Galapagos Federal Systems LLC is seeking a highly qualified and motivated Senior Software Engineer to support a high-visibility initiative within the Department of the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office (AF RCO). This position provides expert software engineering guidance throughout the acquisition lifecycle, advising government leadership on technical strategies, source selection, and program risk management.
The ideal candidate will be a proactive, results-driven professional with strong technical expertise, sound judgment, and the ability to work independently. This role requires adaptability, effective problem-solving skills, and the ability to deliver timely solutions in a fast-paced, rapid acquisition environment.
Key Responsibilities
The Senior Software Architect will:

• Evaluate software architectures and development approaches to identify technical, cost, schedule, cybersecurity, and operational risks across multiple programs
• Assess software implementation strategies, including government reference architectures, COTS/GOTS solutions, cloud environments, microservices, and custom development
• Identify cross-program dependencies, integration challenges, and technical risks impacting portfolio performance and mission objectives
• Evaluate software strategies for compliance with DoD Software Acquisition Pathway (SWP), DevSecOps, and Software Modernization Strategy guidance
• Review software architectures, development plans, Contract Data Requirements Lists (CDRLs), and contractor proposals, providing independent technical assessments and recommendations
• Advise on Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA), interface standards, data rights, and strategies to minimize vendor dependency
• Assess software development environments, CI/CD pipelines, and continuous Authority to Operate (cATO) capabilities to improve delivery efficiency
• Develop technical assessments, risk analyses, decision memoranda, and executive briefings for senior DoD and government leadership
• Facilitate technical discussions with government representatives, FFRDCs, SETA personnel, and contractors to resolve complex engineering challenges
• Support source selections, technical evaluations, software cost assessments, and acquisition decisions
• Evaluate emerging technologies, including AI/ML, edge computing, and zero-trust architectures, for potential mission applications and implementation risks

Requirements
Skills and Experience
The Senior Software Architect must have:

• Active Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) clearance
• 15+ years of software engineering experience, including at least 8 years in a software architect, chief software engineer, or technical leadership role
• Extensive experience supporting DoD space, command and control (C2), ground systems, or national security software programs
• Demonstrated expertise evaluating software architectures, development strategies, and technical risks related to cost, schedule, performance, and cybersecurity
• Hands-on experience with Agile development, DevSecOps, CI/CD pipelines, containerization, Kubernetes, and cloud environments such as AWS GovCloud or Azure Government
• Working knowledge of DoD acquisition processes, Software Acquisition Pathway, Risk Management Framework (RMF), Authority to Operate (ATO), and DoDI 5000.87
• Experience reviewing technical documentation, contractor proposals, and software development strategies
• Proven ability to develop technical recommendations and present complex information to senior government and military leadership
• Experience with satellite C2, mission data processing, ground segment modernization, MILSATCOM, missile warning, or Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) programs
• Previous experience supporting Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs), Systems Engineering and Technical Assistance (SETA), or independent technical assessments
• Familiarity with MOSA, government reference architectures, software data rights, and vendor integration
• Experience conducting software cost estimates and independent technical risk assessments, including Software Resources Data Reports and Independent Technical Risk Assessments (ITRAs)
• Relevant certifications such as TOGAF, AWS/Azure Solutions Architect, CISSP, or DAWIA/Back-to-Basics Engineering or Software credentials
• Current Counterintelligence (CI) polygraph

Education and Certifications
The Senior Software Architect must meet the following:
Required

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related technical field

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k)
• PTO
• Paid Parental Leave
• Military Differential
• Tuition reimbursement
• Paid federal holidays

Security Clearance
A high-level Department of Defense active security clearance is/may be required. Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and may need to meet eligibility requirements for access to government information.
Physical Requirements
Work may involve sitting or standing for extended periods of time and typing and reading from a computer screen. The candidate must have enough mobility, including bending, reaching, and kneeling, to complete daily duties in a prompt and efficient manner, and that may include lifting up to thirty pounds, as necessary.
Company Summary
Headquartered in Hawaii, Galapagos Federal Systems, LLC, is an SBA-Certified NHO-owned 8(a) Small Business specializing in global information technology solutions. We deliver professional services in IT Design & Installation, Cybersecurity Engineering & Support, Application Integration & Development, Software & Hardware Engineering, Network & Systems Management, Information Systems Security, and Business Management Services.
Leveraging over 30 years of providing IT services to the federal & commercial market with projects found around the world, our team has innovative expertise in the development of a wide range of technological solutions. Galapagos Federal Systems, LLC is an equal opportunity employer.
Our service commitment is simple - "Quality IT Solutions... On Time & On Budget."
Company Employment Statement
Galapagos Federal Systems, LLC reserves the right to change or modify job duties and assignments at any time. The above job description is not all encompassing as positions, functions, and qualifications may vary depending on business needs. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Galapagos Federal Systems, LLC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against applicants based on race, color, creed, religion, medical condition, legally protected genetic information, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical condition), sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, disability, or Vietnam era, or other eligible veteran status or legally protected characteristics.
The final salary offered within the posted range will be based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, skills, education, and other job-related factors.
Posted Salary Range
USD $180,000.00 - USD $220,000.00 /Yr.