IT Solution Architect

SAAB; Colchester; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defence and technology firm in the UK is seeking an IT Solution Architect to design and implement technology solutions that align with business needs and technical requirements. The role involves collaborating with stakeholders, developing architectural diagrams, and ensuring compliance with security policies. A Bachelor's in Computer Science with extensive experience in solution architecture is required. The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills and a desire to innovate within a dynamic team environment.

Qualifications

• 7+ years in IT roles, with at least 3 years in solution architecture.
• Experience in large-scale system design and implementation.
• Knowledge of enterprise architecture frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement technology solutions aligned with business objectives.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to understand requirements.
• Assess emerging technologies and recommend adoption.

Skills

Solution Design & Architecture

Analytical & problem-solving skills

Excellent verbal and written communication

Leadership during solution implementation

Stakeholder Engagement

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field

Tools

AWS

Azure

GCP

TOGAF

ITIL

Job description

Job Summary

This is an initial 6 month contract role within our UK IT Business Unit. The IT Solution Architect will be responsible for designing and implementing technology solutions that align with business objectives and technical requirements. This role bridges the gap between business needs and IT capabilities, ensuring that solutions are scalable, secure, and cost‑effective. The Solution Architect works closely with stakeholders, developers, and project managers to deliver robust architectures that support organisational goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Solution Design & Architecture to a high standard.
• Develop high‑level and detailed solution architectures for IT systems and applications.
• Ensure solutions comply with enterprise architecture standards, security policies, and regulatory requirements.
• Create architectural diagrams, models and documentation for proposed solutions.
• Stakeholder Engagement – collaborate with business analysts, project managers and technical teams to understand requirements.
• Present architectural solutions to stakeholders and obtain buy‑in.
• Technology Evaluation – assess emerging technologies and recommend adoption where appropriate.
• Conduct feasibility studies and cost‑benefit analyses for proposed solutions.
• Governance & Standards – define and enforce architectural principles, guidelines and best practices; ensure consistency and integration across systems and platforms.
• Implementation Support – provide technical leadership during solution implementation, troubleshoot architectural issues and guide development teams.
• Perform Risk Management – identify potential risks in solution design and propose mitigation strategies; ensure compliance with data protection and cybersecurity standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology or related field.
• 7+ years in IT roles, with at least 3 years in solution architecture.
• Experience in large‑scale system design and implementation.
• Certifications (Preferred): TOGAF, AWS/Azure Solution Architect, ITIL.
• Knowledge of enterprise architecture frameworks (e.g. TOGAF, Zachman).
• Proficiency in cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and hybrid architectures.
• Experience with APIs, microservices and integration patterns.
• Understanding of networking, security and infrastructure principles.
• Analytical & problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to translate business requirements into technical solutions.
• Strong analytical skills for evaluating complex systems.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to influence and negotiate with stakeholders at all levels.
• Self‑motivated, resilient and able to work under pressure.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.

About Saab UK

Saab UK is part of Scandinavia’s largest defence company, combining Swedish and British innovation. Saab offers world‑leading solutions and services in defence, aviation, space and civil security to keep people and society safe. Our UK presence is growing rapidly, providing a wide range of opportunities for personal fulfilment and career growth. We employ over 600 people across eight sites in the UK, specialising in software engineering, underwater robotics, radars, AI and armed forces training. Our culture is award‑winning, inclusive and recognised as a Top Workplace.