Lead Solution Architect (Barcode)

Rail Delivery Group; London; Hybrid; GBP 62,000 - 88,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Lead Solution Architect to spearhead the transformation of digital ticketing in the UK rail sector. This role involves leading the architecture for 'Barcode 2.0', ensuring security and scalability while collaborating with various stakeholders. With a focus on innovation, you'll have the opportunity to shape the future of ticketing solutions that enhance customer experiences. Join a dynamic team that values technical expertise and offers a competitive benefits package, including extensive annual leave and travel discounts. Be part of a pivotal change in the rail industry!

Benefits

75% off rail travel

30 Days annual leave

Season ticket loan

Enhanced family leave

Pension scheme

Private medical insurance

Discounted gym membership

Qualifications

• Strong technical leadership in digital ticketing.
• Experience in complex, multi-stakeholder environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end solution architecture for ticketing.
• Collaborate with teams to ensure successful implementation.

Skills

AWS Certified Solution Architect

TOGAF or similar architectural certification

API gateway platforms

Integration design

Cloud platforms (AWS)

Architecture tools (Visio, Lucidchart)

Communication skills

Technical leadership

Tools

Visio

Lucidchart

Enterprise Architect

Job description

Lead Solution Architect – Barcode

Salary: £62,500 - £87,500

Location: London – Hybrid

Contract: Permanent

Annual Leave: 30 Days + Excellent Benefits

Closing Date: 23rd May 2025

Be Part of the Future of Rail

The railway in Britain is undergoing its most significant transformation in a generation, and Rail Delivery Group (RDG) is at the heart of it. With the creation of Great British Railways (GBR), we’re helping shape a new era of smarter, simpler, and more connected ticketing.

RDG’s Digital Ticketing Services (DTS) team leads innovation in smart ticketing, enabling fully interoperable digital solutions across the country. Our work helps Train Operating Companies (TOCs) deliver seamless journeys for millions of customers – now and into the future.

About the Role

With over half of all rail tickets now fulfilled via barcode, RDG is investing in a major re-design of its barcode system. You will lead architecture for 'Barcode 2.0', supporting cross-London travel and working closely with TfL. From short-term projects like eTicket On Departure to long-term strategic reform, this is a critical and high-impact role.

This role will shape the next generation of barcode ticketing solutions across rail. You’ll lead the technical strategy for Barcode 2.0, ensuring continuity, security, and alignment with broader retail system reforms.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end solution architecture for your assigned ticketing domain
• Create and maintain technical documentation including data flows, integrations and architecture definitions
• Assess technical design options and ensure alignment with enterprise architecture and policy
• Collaborate with delivery teams, project managers and external suppliers to ensure successful implementation
• Take ownership of the Architecture Definition Document and present solutions to governance boards
• Ensure security, scalability, and interoperability of all solutions
• Mentor and guide a team of Solution Architects and support their professional development
• Contribute to the strategic roadmap and represent your domain at industry forums

What We’re Looking For

We’re looking for someone with strong technical leadership and domain expertise in digital ticketing. You’ll need to balance technical depth with excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills, and thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.

Essential Skills & Experience:

• AWS Certified Solution Architect (or equivalent experience)
• TOGAF or similar architectural certification
• Extensive experience leading technical architecture in a complex, multi-stakeholder environment
• Strong experience with API gateway platforms and integration design
• Knowledge of cloud platforms such as AWS
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Hands-on experience with architecture tools such as Visio, Lucidchart or Enterprise Architect
• Track record of delivering scalable, secure, high-performance digital solutions

Why Work for RDG?

We offer a highly competitive package, including:

• 75% off rail travel for personal and family use, plus international rail discounts.
• 30 Days annual leave (plus buy/sell options and additional leave for key life events)
• Season ticket loan for commuting costs.
• Enhanced family leave – 30 weeks full pay for maternity, adoption, surrogacy, and shared parental leave.
• Pension scheme – up to 11.58% employer contribution.
• Private medical insurance (AXA PPP) including mental health and specialist care.
• Discounted gym membership and access to wellbeing programmes.

Career Development & Progression

You’ll be part of a team driving innovation at a national scale, with the opportunity to influence long-term ticketing strategy. This role provides real ownership, the chance to work with leading-edge technologies and partners, and visibility at senior levels across the rail industry. You’ll also gain wide exposure to transport and government stakeholders, opening up exciting development and progression opportunities within RDG.

Apply Now & Shape the Future of UK Rail

If you are interested in joining RDG as a Lead Solution Architect and shaping the future of digital ticketing, we’d love to hear from you!

Click Apply now to start your application and be part of a team that is leading digital innovation in the rail industry.

Please note that we are unable to consider applications from candidates who require visa sponsorship to work in the UK.