Senior Software Architect with Security Clearance

Position: Senior Software Architect
Location: on-site San Diego, CA (9/80 schedule)
Clearance required: an active Secret clearance
Compensation range: $160K-$195K, based on experience & qualifications If you're interested, please email your resume to: We are seeking a Senior Software Architect to lead the design, modernization, and implementation of complex software solutions supporting mission-critical programs. This role will provide technical leadership across the software development lifecycle, guiding architecture decisions, evaluating emerging technologies, and supporting Agile development teams. The selected candidate will define scalable and secure software architectures, establish development standards and best practices, and partner with cross-functional engineering teams to deliver high-quality solutions. Applications may include cloud-based, web, desktop, and distributed systems utilizing a variety of programming languages and technology stacks. Key Responsibilities
Lead software architecture efforts across multiple projects and development teams.
Design scalable, secure, and maintainable software solutions aligned with mission and business requirements.
Evaluate technologies, frameworks, platforms, and architectural approaches.
Support software development, integration, testing, and deployment activities.
Conduct technical trade studies and recommend architecture strategies.
Collaborate with engineering, cybersecurity, testing, and program teams.
Ensure adherence to software engineering standards, coding best practices, and Agile methodologies.
Mentor developers and provide technical guidance to engineering teams.
Communicate architectural decisions and technical recommendations to stakeholders. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Systems, or related field (or equivalent experience).
10+ years of software design and development experience.
8+ years of technical leadership or architecture experience.
Experience designing and supporting large-scale enterprise or mission-focused systems.
Strong understanding of secure software architecture and development practices.
Experience with cloud technologies (AWS and/or Azure).
Experience with Java, C++, and/or other modern programming languages.
Experience with web technologies, APIs, databases, and distributed systems.
Knowledge of CI/CD methodologies and DevSecOps principles.
Experience working in Agile/Scrum environments.
Strong problem-solving, communication, and technical leadership skills. Preferred Qualifications
Microservices architecture experience.
Cloud, software development, or architecture certifications.
Experience within government, defense, or highly regulated environments.
Knowledge of networking concepts and modern software infrastructure.
Experience with Agile frameworks such as Scrum or SAFe. The pay range is the lowest to highest compensation we reasonably in good faith believe we would pay at posting for this role. We may ultimately pay more or less than this range. Employee pay is based on factors like relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, location, performance, union contract and business needs. This range may be modified in the future. We offer comprehensive benefits including medical/dental/vision insurance, HSA, FSA, 401(k), and life, disability & ADD insurance to eligible employees. Salaried personnel receive paid time off. Hourly employees are not eligible for paid time off unless required by law. Hourly employees on a Service Contract Act project are eligible for paid sick leave. Note: Pay is not considered compensation until it is earned, vested and determinable. The amount and availability of any compensation remains in Kforce's sole discretion unless and until paid and may be modified in its discretion consistent with the law. This job is not eligible for bonuses, incentives or commissions. Kforce is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status. By clicking “Apply Today” you agree to receive calls, AI-generated calls, text messages or emails from Kforce and its affiliates, and service providers. Note that if you choose to communicate with Kforce via text messaging the frequency may vary, and message and data rates may apply. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages. You will always have the right to cease communicating via text by using key words such as STOP.