Security Cleared Solution Architect

Cybersecurity; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A technology consultancy in the UK is seeking an experienced Solution Architect to lead the design, integration, and delivery of innovative solutions across defence and cloud systems. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in systems engineering and requirements management, alongside at least 7 years of experience in a similar role. This position offers a competitive salary, flexible working arrangements, and a range of benefits including a pension scheme, private healthcare, and personal development opportunities.

Benefits

Competitive salary and performance-based bonus

Generous pension scheme

25 days annual leave

Private healthcare

Flexible working arrangements

Qualifications

• Proven experience in systems engineering and solution architecture.
• Strong background in requirements management, including use cases and user stories.
• Minimum 7+ years' experience as a Solution Architect.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, integration, and delivery of technical solutions.
• Manage technical teams of architects and integrators.
• Develop overarching test strategies and plans.

Skills

Systems engineering

Requirements management

HLDs production

Test strategy

Verification & validation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering or Information Systems

TOGAF certification

AWS / Azure Architect certification

Tools

Docker

Kubernetes

TOGAF

UML

Job description

Role : Solution Architect - Defence & Cloud Systems

We are seeking an experienced Solution Architect to join a dynamic and forward-thinking technology consultancy. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in complex, secure environments and enjoys applying systems thinking to deliver innovative, scalable solutions across defence, national security, and enterprise domains.

As a Solution Architect, you will play a pivotal role in leading the design, integration, and delivery of technical solutions. You'll work closely with clients and internal teams to understand requirements, define architectures, and guide implementation through the full lifecycle—from concept to acceptance.

Key Responsibilities

Client Engagement & Technical Leadership

Understand client requirements and pain points, provide Subject Matter Expertise (SME), and apply best practice systems thinking to develop effective solutions.

Architecture Design & Documentation

Define and model "As-Is" and "To-Be" states of services, systems, and enterprises. Produce High-Level Designs (HLDs) and Low-Level Designs (LLDs) that align with business and technical goals.

Requirements Management

Elicit, document, and manage user, service, and system requirements throughout the programme lifecycle. Define measures of effectiveness, performance, and acceptance criteria.

Solution Options Analysis

Lead technical options analysis, presenting viable solutions that meet requirements at both threshold and objective levels.

Testing & Validation

Develop overarching test strategies and plans. Generate test scripts and lead verification, validation, and acceptance activities with stakeholders.

Team Leadership & Collaboration

Manage technical teams of architects and integrators. Foster collaboration across disciplines to ensure cohesive and high-quality delivery.

Stakeholder Communication

Present complex technical information clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences. Build trust and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders.

Technical Skills & Experience

Essential Skills

• Proven experience in systems engineering and solution architecture
• Strong background in requirements management , including use cases and user stories
• Expertise in producing HLDs , LLDs , and other design artefacts
• Experience with test strategy , evaluation , and acceptance planning
• Familiarity with verification & validation processes

Architecture Modelling

• Proficiency in industry frameworks such as TOGAF , ArchiMate , and UML
• Experience in enterprise architecture and solution architecture modelling

Domain Knowledge

• Minimum 7+ years' experience as a Solution Architect
• Experience with Defence ICT systems , including secure cloud hosting environments
• Understanding of Geospatial Information Systems (GIS) and geospatial technologies
• Knowledge of cloud platforms (Azure, AWS), virtualisation , and AI technologies
• Experience with containerisation and orchestration tools (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes)
• Familiarity with Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) delivery methodologies

Qualifications & Clearance

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science , Engineering , Information Systems , or equivalent experience
• Relevant professional certifications (e.g., TOGAF, AWS / Azure Architect)
• Active SC clearance or higher is required
• Must be a UK national

What's on Offer

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonus
• Generous pension scheme and life assurance
• 25 days annual leave plus additional leave for military reservists and volunteering
• Private healthcare via Doctor@Hand
• Flexible working arrangements - remote or office-based
• Access to the latest secure technologies
• Investment in personal development and career progression
• Relocation bonus available for graduates