Software Architect

Matchtech; Bristol; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A technology solutions provider in the UK is seeking an experienced Software Architect to help shape cutting-edge software for advanced defence systems. Responsibilities include defining software architecture, collaborating with engineers, and influencing technology strategy. The ideal candidate will have a strong programming background, experience in architectural decisions, and excellent communication skills. This hybrid role typically requires 3 to 4 days on-site.

Qualifications

• Solid experience making key architectural and design decisions.
• Strong communication skills to influence and mentor.
• Understanding of software abstraction layers and technology stacks.

Responsibilities

• Defining the structural and temporal architecture of software systems.
• Collaborating with engineers and other architects.
• Influencing software technology strategy and practices.

Skills

Architectural and design decision making

Modern and established architecture techniques

Model-based engineering

Strong communication skills

Continuous integration advocate

Programming in multiple languages

Tools

Software development tools

Job description

Software Architect

Location: Hybrid - typically 3 to 4 days per week on-site

Clearance: Must be a British Citizen or Dual UK National (with British Citizenship)

A fantastic opportunity for an experienced Software Architect - or a skilled software designer ready to take the next step in their career!

We're looking for a passionate Software Architect to join our growing engineering team, where you'll help shape cutting-edge software that underpins some of the most advanced defence systems in Europe. Working alongside other Architects, Technical Specialists, and key engineering teams, you'll design, guide, and evolve software solutions that are safe, secure, and reliable.

The Role

As a Software Architect, you'll be responsible for defining and guiding the full software architecture - working with delivery teams to ensure integrity, performance, and maintainability across the system.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Defining the structural and temporal architecture of software systems, including internal and external interfaces.
• Identifying and documenting design drivers (e.g. performance, safety, security, usability, reusability).
• Producing derived and emergent requirements, with clear assumptions and rationale.
• Ensuring implementation choices uphold architectural integrity.
• Collaborating with engineers and other architects to support reviews and design activities.
• Influencing software technology strategy, including product lines, new tools, and methods.
• Contributing to communities of practice and driving innovation across software engineering.

About You

You'll bring strong technical judgment and architectural experience, as well as the ability to mentor and inspire teams.

We're looking for someone who has:

• Solid experience making key architectural and design decisions.
• Knowledge of modern and established architecture techniques and design patterns.
• Experience with model-based engineering approaches.
• Strong communication skills - able to influence, mentor, and articulate complex concepts clearly.
• A strong advocate for continuous integration, good design, and clean code practices.
• The ability to balance trade-offs and justify design rationale.
• Understanding of software abstraction layers and technology stacks.
• Experience defining or influencing tools, frameworks, and technologies.
• A strong programming background - ideally with experience in multiple languages.