Autonomous Systems Architect

Frontier Resourcing

Farnborough

On-site

GBP 85,000 - 95,000

Full time

14 days+

Application generator

Don’t send a generic resume — generate a resume and cover letter tailored to this exact role.

Get past ATS filters

Job summary

A leading defence consultancy in Farnborough is seeking a security-cleared Solution Architect to lead systems design and architecture for complex naval projects. The ideal candidate will have experience in defence environments, excellent communication skills, and a degree in a relevant field. The role offers a competitive salary between £85,000 and £95,000, with a full-time commitment required.

Qualifications

Experience architecting systems in defence, maritime, or related environments.
Good grasp of naval or platform systems.
Track record leading architectural design and governance.

Responsibilities

Lead architecture and systems design activities across programmes.
Shape technical solutions and validate concepts with customers.
Ensure interoperability and compliance with defence standards.

Skills

Architecture and systems design

Technical solutions and roadmaps

Information security knowledge

Communication skills

Education

Degree in Engineering, Systems Engineering, or Computer Science

Tools

MODAF

NAF

TOGAF

Sparx EA

Cameo

Job description

Catalysing IT & Engineering Delivery in Defence, National Security and Industry

We’re working with a long‑term partner in the defence and national security ecosystem who are expanding their maritime digital and mission systems capability. They’re looking for a security‑cleared Solution Architect to help define and deliver complex, integrated C4ISR and autonomous systems across a range of naval and wider defence programmes.

This role suits someone who’s comfortable operating at the intersection of technology strategy, systems engineering, and solution delivery — turning ambitious operational goals into implementable technical architectures that actually work in the real world.

What You’ll Be Doing

Lead architecture and systems design activities across maritime and mission‑system programmes — from combat and comms to autonomous control and data networks.
Shape end‑to‑end technical solutions, roadmaps, and digital engineering approaches to meet demanding operational and security requirements.
Work with defence customers, delivery partners, and engineering teams to validate concepts and align technical direction with capability needs.
Contribute to technical assurance, bid strategy, and governance reviews to ensure architectural integrity across projects.
Oversee integration and performance across multiple programmes, ensuring interoperability and compliance with relevant defence and security standards.
Bring insight on emerging technologies — particularly around AI, uncrewed systems, advanced comms, and digital twins — into practical design thinking and system evolution.

What You’ll Bring

Degree or equivalent experience in Engineering, Systems Engineering, or Computer Science.
Experience architecting systems within defence, maritime, or related mission‑critical environments.
Good grasp of naval or platform systems (surface, subsurface, uncrewed, comms, mission systems).
Proven track record leading architectural design, assurance, and governance of complex technical programmes.
Familiar with MOD/industry architecture frameworks (MODAF, NAF, TOGAF) and tools (Sparx EA, Cameo, similar).
Understanding of model‑based systems engineering (MBSE) and lifecycle standards such as ISO/IEC/IEEE 15288.
Knowledge of information security, safety, and assurance within regulated environments.
Strong communicator — able to bridge the gap between engineering teams, delivery, and customer stakeholders.

Clearance