Solution Architect

Harvey Nash; United Kingdom; Hybrid; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking an experienced Solutions Architect for a contract role focusing on software solutions in a UK Government department. This hybrid position requires active SC Clearance and a strong background in software engineering. Responsibilities include designing scalable solutions and collaborating with delivery teams. Competitive rate between £450-£525 per day based on experience.

Qualifications

• Active SC Clearance (must be currently valid).
• Proven experience as a Solutions Architect in large-scale software environments.
• Strong background in software engineering (e.g., Java, .NET, Python, or similar).
• Deep understanding of modern architectural patterns (e.g., microservices, API-first).

Responsibilities

• Lead the design of end-to-end software solutions across complex systems.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on architecture patterns.
• Ensure solutions are secure and compliant with regulations.
• Provide technical leadership throughout the development lifecycle.

Skills

Solutions Architecture

Software Engineering

Stakeholder Management

Communication Skills

Tools

Java

Python

AWS

Azure

Job description

Overview

Job Title: Contract Solutions Architect - Software Focus (SC Cleared)

Location: Hybrid (Remote & Ad Hoc Leeds/Manchester/London)

Contract Type: Contract

IR35: Inside

Duration: 6 Months +

Rate: £450-£525 (DOE)

Clearance Required: Active SC Clearance

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Solutions Architect with a strong software engineering background to join a high-profile UK Government department on a contract basis. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to mission-critical digital transformation initiatives that impact millions of citizens.

You will be responsible for designing and delivering scalable, secure, and maintainable software solutions across a range of government services. Working closely with delivery teams, stakeholders, and technical leads, you\'ll ensure architectural integrity and alignment with strategic goals.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design of end-to-end software solutions across complex systems and services.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define architecture patterns, principles, and standards.
• Ensure solutions are secure, performant, and compliant with government regulations.
• Provide technical leadership and guidance throughout the software development lifecycle.
• Translate business requirements into robust technical designs.
• Engage with senior stakeholders to communicate architectural decisions and trade-offs.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Active SC Clearance (must be currently valid).
• Proven experience as a Solutions Architect in large-scale software environments.
• Strong background in software engineering (e.g., Java, .NET, Python, or similar).
• Deep understanding of modern architectural patterns (e.g., microservices, event-driven, API-first).
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or GCP).
• Familiarity with DevOps practices and CI/CD pipelines.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.

Desirable

• Experience working within UK Government or public sector environments.
• Knowledge of GDS standards and service design principles.
• Exposure to Agile delivery methodologies