Solution Architect (Defence)

Kainos; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Kainos is seeking a Solution Architect (Manager) to lead multi-skilled agile teams in designing and delivering high-quality defence software. You’ll partner with customer architects to agree designs, estimate effort, and balance functional and non-functional requirements while coaching staff and shaping technical standards.

You’ll need active DV clearance, a proven record delivering multi-tier applications, and strong communication to explain designs to customers and senior management.

Qualifications

• Must have previous defence sector experience.
• Must hold Active DV clearance.
• Delivered software designs for multi-tiered applications.
• Understands whole solution architecture concepts and can discuss with customer architects.
• Ability to prioritise non-functional concerns in design.
• Experience with AWS and Azure SaaS/PaaS offerings.
• Able to communicate technical designs clearly in docs and talks.
• Decisive in fast-moving delivery environments.
• Proven track record coaching and developing junior staff.

Responsibilities

• Lead multi-skilled agile teams to design and deliver high-quality solutions.
• Collaborate with customer architects to agree designs and estimate effort.
• Mentor staff and support career development.
• Provide direction and leadership, develop policy and standards.
• Advise on new technologies and approaches.

Skills

Defence sector experience

DV clearance

Software architecture

Cloud platforms (AWS/Azure)

Non-functional requirements

People development

Stakeholder communication

Tools

AWS

Azure

Job description

Join Kainos and Shape the Future

At Kainos, we're problem solvers, innovators, and collaborators - driven by a shared mission to create real impact. Whether we're transforming digital services for millions, delivering cutting-edge Workday solutions, or pushing the boundaries of technology, we do it together.

We believe in a people-first culture, where your ideas are valued, your growth is supported, and your contributions truly make a difference. Here, you'll be part of a diverse, ambitious team that celebrates creativity and collaboration.

Ready to make your mark? Join us and be part of something bigger.

MAIN PURPOSE OF THE ROLE & RESPONSIBILITIES IN THE BUSINESS

As a Solution Architect (Manager) in Kainos, you'll be responsible for leading multi-skilled agile teams to design and deliver high quality solutions which delight our customers and impact the lives of users worldwide. You'll work with customer architects to agree functional and non-functional designs, advising customers and managers on the estimated effort, technical implications and complexity surrounding your designs. You'll manage, coach and develop a small number of staff, with a focus on managing employee performance and assisting in their career development. You'll also provide direction and leadership for your team as you solve challenging problems together. As a technical leader, you will work with your peers to develop policy and standards, share knowledge and mentor those around you. You'll do this whilst advising about new technologies and approaches, with room to learn, develop and grow.

Minimum (essential) Requirements

• Must have previous experience working in Defence Sector
• Must have Active Security or DV Clearance
• Has successfully delivered software designs for multi-tiered modern software applications.
• Understands whole solution architecture concepts and can communicate and negotiate these with customer architects.
• Can prioritise non-functional concerns for customers and has experience incorporating these into the application design.
• Has experience with public cloud platforms, such as AWS and Azure, including SaaS and PaaS offerings.
• Able to simply and clearly communicate technical design in conversation, documentation and presentations.
• Able to make effective decisions within fast-moving delivery.
• We are passionate about developing people - a demonstrated ability in managing, coaching and developing junior members of your team and wider community.

Desirable

• Proven experience being accountable for all sizes of technology delivery challenges, e.g. project, multi-team programme.
• Has pro-actively developed business across an account with sales and account managers.
• Experience in managing others, setting objectives, giving feedback and leading performance reviews.
• Able to prioritise their time across multiple major projects.
• Actively shares their thoughts and views on technology.
• Has participated in technology communities.

Embracing our differences

At Kainos, we believe in the power of diversity, equity and inclusion. We are committed to building a team that is as diverse as the world we live in, where everyone is valued, respected, and given an equal chance to thrive. We actively seek out talented people from all backgrounds, regardless of age, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or any other characteristic that makes them who they are. We also believe every candidate deserves a level playing field.

Our friendly talent acquisition team is here to support you every step of the way, so if you require any accommodations or adjustments, we encourage you to reach out.

We understand that everyone's journey is different, and by having a private conversation we can ensure that our recruitment process is tailored to your needs.