Solution Architects

Job description

Solution Architect

An opportunity has arisen for a Solution Architect to be based in the UK, within the Shared Services, Enterprise IT Services (EITS) Strategy and Architecture team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for defining robust and cost effective solution architectures and designs to meet the business objectives and requirements of the customer, with responsibility for delivery of fit for purpose solutions in line with EITS standards and policies.

The projects will sit across various Business Areas, such as Finance, Procurement, HR etc. and the successful candidate will work on multiple projects at any one time, depending on the breadth / scope.

This role reports directly to the Engineering Authority and Principal Infrastructure Architect, EITS.

As a Solution Architect your main responsibilities will involve:

Defining the Solution Architecture and Design for the project to meet business requirements, within the project constraints of cost and timescale, and the agreed architectural and technical framework

Capturing the as-is application, data and technology architectures for the assigned projects

Defining the to-be application, data and technology architectures for the assigned projects

Ensuring, and where 3 rd party elements are provided, assuring, that the overall functional and technical design of the solution is acceptable and fit for purpose

Providing technical authority leadership of the IM&T solution and associated development team, ensuring that the solution architecture and design is as required and is communicated effectively

Liaising with the product suppliers, COTS component vendors and sub-contract development teams

Ensuring consistency and integrity of the solution implementation through overseeing the solution development process, and production of development work products

Providing design management and governance through the operation of change and configuration management activities

Working effectively with the Project Managers to support the development of the project plan, through assisting with the compilation, reviewing estimates and schedules, and identifying risks and approach to reviews

Engaging with customers and stakeholders to develop solution requirements and solution design

As a Solution Architect your skills and qualifications will ideally include:

Information Systems / Engineering diploma / degree – or equivalent, would be advantageous.

Proven experience in delivering IM&T solutions together with associated architecture deliverables.

Proven knowledge and experience of working within architecture frameworks e.g. TOGAF.

Understanding of the service lifecycle is advantageous e.g. ITIL.

Hands-on experience with business and system requirements gathering / analysis.

Proven experience in design, development, test and release of Information Systems.

Strong understanding of information processing principles and practices.

Technical knowledge of a range of IM&T business systems from ERPs through procurement to supplier management.

Excellent analytical, conceptual, and problem-solving abilities.

Very good written and oral communication skills.

Architecture and technical support documentation skills.

Understanding of IM&T / software development lifecycle (including methodologies e.g. Agile) and associated reviews, policies, standards and governance processes.

Previous experience of technical leadership e.g. acting as a Technical Authority.

Location : Preston or Farnborough

Salary: Competitive (Depending on experience)

Benefits: Our employees receive an excellent benefits package which includes a competitive pension scheme, enhanced annual leave allowance and a Company contributed Share Incentive Plan. We also offer a range of additional benefits such as flexible working, an employee assistance programme, Cycle2work and many local and national employee discounts. Some employees may also be eligible for an annual incentive.

BAE Systems

BAE Systems is one of the world’s leading global defence, security and aerospace companies. We work at the cutting edge of technology, creating more than 100 new inventions every year for customers in over 100 countries.

Shared Services

BAE Systems is home to the engineering expertise, technical skill and ingenious people that keep the UK at the forefront of defence and security capability. We manage some of today’s toughest challenges, delivering the most complex programmes, which generate critical export growth whilst supporting thousands of advanced manufacturing jobs distributed throughout the UK.

Now we want even more great people to join us.

To support such a uniquely complex range of operations, our Shared Services people are likewise hugely diverse. About half of our 1000 employees are at 32 UK locations, in customer-facing roles, adding benefit and value to BAE Systems operations, people and property. We are home to experts who thrive on mental challenge - often specialists who are leaders in their fields.

Whatever the area you work in, the focus is always on delivering the highest quality solutions at the lowest possible cost. We welcome people with diverse skills and experience who bring a real passion for customer focus.

We pride ourselves on employing the best professionals around. Join us and you'll be part of something important; something you can be proud of.

BAE Systems is an equal opportunities employer. We value diversity and welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds. We particularly welcome applications from sections of the community which are currently under-represented at BAE Systems, including women, BAME and applicants with disabilities. Please note we will not use any personal information relating to your background at any stage of the application process.

Please be aware that many roles working for BAE Systems will be subject to both security and export control restrictions. These restrictions mean that factors including your nationality, any previous nationalities you have held, and/or your place of birth may limit those roles that you can perform for the organisation . r your place of birth may limit those roles that you can perform for the organisation .