Solution Architect (DV Security Clearance)

CGI Group Inc.; Reading; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology firm is seeking an experienced Architect to provide specialist leadership in Defence ICT transformation projects. Responsibilities include contributing to bid strategies, developing professional artefacts, and collaborating with teams in Reading and Chippenham. Ideal candidates will have proven experience in Defence ICT, strong architecture skills, and eligibility for UK Security Clearance. The role offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits in a supportive work environment.

Benefits

Insurance coverage

Medical benefits

Pension plan

Member Assistant Programme

Flexible time off

Qualifications

• Proven experience in Defence ICT or complex Enterprise Systems.
• Strong skills in architecture and solution design.
• Experience in producing bid artefacts and technical documentation.

Responsibilities

• Provide solution options in your specialist domain to shape a winning bid strategy.
• Produce professional artefacts suitable for a major MOD programme.
• Collaborate with CGI and partner teams to ensure cohesive system architecture.

Skills

Architectural leadership

Defence ICT expertise

Solution design

Cost modelling

Collaboration

Tools

VMware Cloud Foundation

Windows/Server Core Apps

Network Design/Firewalls

Cloud Hosting

Job description

Overview

In this role, you will provide specialist architectural leadership across your domain, shaping solutions that support one of the UK's most critical Defence ICT transformation programmes. You will design, develop, and document innovative technical options, ensuring they align with the client's requirements and CGI's disciplined approach to system integration. Your work will have direct influence on the bid's success and the long-term delivery of secure, resilient services. You will work alongside a collaborative team of subject matter experts, contributing your knowledge across areas such as hosting, networks, applications, workplace services, or testing. Through your expertise, you will help expand CGI\'s Defence footprint, create professional artefacts for major bids, and ensure the solutions we propose are both technically sound and commercially competitive.

Key responsibilities

• Lead & Innovate: Provide solution options in your specialist domain to shape a winning bid strategy
• Develop & Deliver: Produce professional artefacts suitable for a major MOD programme
• Analyse & Estimate: Provide effort and cost modelling to underpin bid submissions
• Collaborate & Integrate: Work with CGI and partner teams to ensure cohesive system architecture
• Optimise & Improve: Apply experience in Defence and Enterprise Systems to drive innovation and resilience

Requirements & qualifications

You should bring proven experience in Defence ICT or complex Enterprise Systems, with strong skills in architecture and solution design. A background in producing bid artefacts, technical documentation, or cost models will be highly valued, alongside expertise in one or more relevant domains such as hosting, networking, workplace services, or application platforms. Experience in Defence ICT programmes and Enterprise Business Systems is essential. Strong proficiency in solution architecture and design processes, and a proven ability to contribute professional artefacts for major bids/programmes are required. Specialist expertise in at least one of the following areas is desirable: Windows/Server Core Apps (Exchange, Teams, VDI), Network Design/Firewalls, or Cloud Hosting of Enterprise Systems. Desirable qualifications include familiarity with VMware Cloud Foundation (NSX, vRealize, ARIA), knowledge of Defence networking and firewall environments, and experience with Workplace Apps (Teams, SharePoint), storage/backup solutions, or application integration/packaging.

Due to the secure nature of the programme, you will need to hold UK Security Clearance or be eligible to obtain it. This position will have frequent onsite commitments in Reading and Chippenham.

Benefits

• Insurance coverage
• Medical benefits
• Pension plan
• Member Assistant Programme
• Check4Cancer
• Flexible time off
• Share Purchase Plan
• Member discounts
• Dental benefits
• Vision benefits
• Profit Participation Plan
• Health and Wellbeing Programme

CGI was recognised in the Sunday Times Best Places to Work List 2025 and has been named a UK Best Employer by the Financial Times. We offer a competitive salary, excellent pension, private healthcare, plus a share scheme. We are committed to inclusivity and proudly support the Armed Forces Corporate Covenant. You will join an open, friendly community of experts and will be supported to grow your career. This role requires UK Security Clearance or eligibility to obtain it. This position will have onsite commitments in Reading and Chippenham.