Lead Enterprise Architect

Akima; Springfield (VA); On-site; USD 198,000 - 200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Dental benefits

401(k)

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Job summary

Akima is seeking a Lead Architect in Virginia to drive modernization and manage Enterprise Architecture Support Services. This senior role involves leading the development of comprehensive as-is and to-be architectures, communicating initiatives to senior leadership, and ensuring alignment with federal mandates. The ideal candidate will have 10+ years of experience in Enterprise Architecture and expertise in FEAF and DoDAF. The position offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental, and 401(k).

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in Enterprise Architecture, with at least 5 in a senior role.
• Demonstrated expertise in FEAF v2.0 and DoDAF frameworks.
• Proven ability to conduct governance processes and brief senior executives.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and maintenance of enterprise architectures across all domains.
• Create architectural designs for aviation system security, cloud, and mobile.
• Drive modernization activities including migration from monolithic applications.

Skills

Enterprise Architecture

Leadership

Communication

Strategic Research

Education

Bachelor's degree in computer science or related field

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

ServiceNow

Ins-Pi/YouDesign

Job description

The Lead Architect serves as the senior technical leader and thought leader for the Enterprise Architecture Support Services (EASS) contract. Working closely with the Program Lead and directly supporting the Architecture & Data Management Branch, this role is responsible for developing, documenting, maintaining, and communicating comprehensive as-is and to-be architectures across all domains and levels. The Lead Architect ensures the customer’s Enterprise Architecture functions as a business-enabling capability that aligns people, processes, information, and technology with the agency’s mission to protect the nation’s transportation systems. This position drives modernization efforts, provides strategic architectural guidance, supports governance processes, and advances EA maturity using the Enterprise Architecture Management Maturity Framework (EAMMF) while leveraging FEAF v2.0 and DoDAF components.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development, documentation, and maintenance of as-is and to-be architectures at the enterprise, portfolio, and solution levels across all domains (performance/risk, business, data/information, applications/systems, infrastructure/technology, and security).
• Create multiple enterprise views, roadmaps, and architectural designs for key areas including aviation system security, cloud, mobile, and identity management.
• Prepare and deliver tailored briefings and presentations to senior leadership, TSA offices, DHS components, and industry partners; serve as the primary spokesperson for EA initiatives.
• Review assigned customer programs and projects, applying architectural principles, standards, and reference models to artifacts and deliverables; act as embedded architect when required.
• Support EA governance processes, including Executive Secretariat duties, FITARA reviews, OMB‑300/OMB‑53 support, and external interactions (DHS Portfolio reviews, TSA IPTs).
• Conduct cross-cutting strategic research, studies, impact/gap analyses, and Analysis of Alternatives (AoAs) on emerging and mature technologies; produce white papers, briefings, infographics, and strategies.
• Drive modernization and transformational activities, including migration from monolithic applications to open platforms and the infusion of Intelligent Automation and Artificial Intelligence (IAAI).
• Contribute to enhancing customer EA maturity through the Enterprise Architecture Management Maturity Framework (EAMMF) and ensure compliance with OMB, GAO, and DHS directives.
• Maintain current EA information in TSA and DHS repositories, including roadmaps, Program Management Plans, and Risk Management Plans.
• Collaborate with stakeholders across TSA, DHS, and industry to align architectures with strategic goals and identify opportunities for reuse and efficiency.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Systems, Engineering, or related field (master’s preferred).
• 10+ years of progressive experience in Enterprise Architecture, with at least 5 years in a senior or lead architect role.
• Demonstrated expertise in FEAF v2.0 and DoDAF frameworks.
• Strong experience developing as-is/to-be architectures across multiple domains and levels.
• Proven ability to brief senior executives and facilitate governance processes.
• Knowledge of federal IT mandates including Clinger‑Cohen Act, FITARA, and OMB Circular A‑130.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance (or higher as required).
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.

Desired Qualification

• Experience supporting TSA, DHS, or other federal transportation/security agencies.
• Hands‑on experience with ServiceNow, Ins‑Pi/YouDesign, or similar EA modeling and repository tools.
• Knowledge of modern technologies including AI/ML, data mesh, cloud architecture, Zero Trust, and biometrics.
• Certifications such as TOGAF, FEAF, PMP, or CISSP.
• Familiarity with geospatial data standards and the Geospatial Data Act (GDA).

Pay Range

198,000‑200,000

Benefits

Regular – The company offers a comprehensive benefits program, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) and a range of other voluntary benefits. Paid Time Off (PTO) is offered to regular full‑time and part‑time employees.