Principal Solutions Architect | Data Security/XDR (Remote) New Chicago, IL

Trace3, Inc.; Chicago (IL); Remote; USD 170,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading IT authority seeks a Principal Solutions Architect focused on Data Security and XDR. This role requires extensive technical expertise to advise clients on security architecture, manage pre-sales activities, and ensure successful implementation. The candidate will work in a dynamic environment, collaborating with cross-functional teams to achieve client success.

Benefits

Comprehensive medical, dental and vision plans

401(k) Retirement Plan with Employer Match

Competitive Compensation

Training and development programs

Stocked kitchen with snacks and beverages

Work-life balance and generous paid time off

Qualifications

• 8 years of experience in cybersecurity, with 5+ focused on Data Security or Threat Detection.
• Deep expertise in enterprise security environments.
• Familiarity with compliance frameworks such as NIST and ISO 27001.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Sales and Account Management to drive client acquisition.
• Lead pre-sales solution development and architectural design sessions.
• Advise on end-to-end Data Protection strategies.

Skills

Cybersecurity

Solution Architecture

Data Security

Technical Communication

Problem Solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Tools

CrowdStrike

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint

Splunk

IBM Qradar

Job description

Principal Solutions Architect | Data Security/XDR (Remote)

Chicago, IL

Who is Trace3?

Trace3 is a leading Transformative IT Authority, providing unique technology solutions and consulting services to our clients. Equipped with elite engineering and dynamic innovation, we empower IT executives and their organizations to achieve competitive advantage through a process of Integrate, Automate, Innovate.

Our culture at Trace3 embodies the spirit of a startup with the advantage of a scalable business. Employees can grow their career and have fun while doing it!

Trace3 is headquartered in Irvine, California. We employ more than 1,200 people all over the United States. Our major field office locations include Denver, Indianapolis, Grand Rapids, Lexington, Los Angeles, Louisville, Texas, San Francisco.

Ready to discover the possibilities that live in technology?

Come Join Us!

Street-Smart-Thriving in Dynamic Times

We are flexible and resilient in a fast-changing environment. We continuously innovate and drive constructive change while keeping a focus on the “big picture.” We exercise sound business judgment in making high-quality decisions in a timely and cost-effective manner. We are highly creative and can dig deep within ourselves to find positive solutions to different problems.

Juice -The “Stuff” it takes to be a Needle Mover

We get things done and drive results. We lead without a title, empowering others through a can-do attitude. We look forward to the goal, mentallymapping outevery checkpoint on the pathway to success, and visualizing what the final destination looks and feels like.

Teamwork -Humble, Hungry and Smart

We are humble individuals who understand how our job impacts the company's mission. We treat others with respect, admit mistakes, give credit where it’s due and demonstrate transparency. We “bring the weather” by exhibiting positive leadership and solution-focused thinking. We hug people in their trials, struggles, and failures – not just their success. We appreciate the individuality of the people around us.

JOB SUMMARY:

Trace3 is seeking a highly skilled Principal Solutions Architect to join our Security Solutions business unit. This role will serve as a consultative technology leader, driving solution development and delivery for clients with a strong focus on Data Security, Extended Detection and Response (XDR), and Cloud Security. You will partner closely with clients and internal teams to align technology strategies with business goals. This is a client-facing, senior-level position requiring deep technical acumen, business insight, and excellent communication skills. You will play a central role in both pre-sales solution architecture and post-sales implementation guidance, ensuring continuity of vision from planning through execution.

SUMMARY OF ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Collaborate with Sales and Account Management teams to identify, develop, and win new client opportunities.
• Communicate value propositions to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, including C-level executives, VPs, directors, and end-users.
• Capture client business and technical requirements and translate them into secure, scalable, and flexible architecture solutions.
• Lead pre-sales solution development efforts, including architectural design sessions, RFP responses, technical presentations, and proof-of-concept engagements.
• Facilitate solution design workshops, discovery sessions, and technical deep dives with client stakeholders.
• Lead Solution Architecture efforts focused on Data Security and Extended Detection and Response (XDR) across enterprise clients, ensuring alignment with Zero Trust, compliance, and operational goals.
• Lead solution design workshops, discovery sessions, and technical deep dives with client stakeholders.
• Advise, design, and implement end-to-end Data Protection and XDR strategies, leveraging technologies such as:
  • Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR): CrowdStrike, Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, SentinelOne
  • DLP & Data Protection: Cyera, Varonis, Microsoft Purview, Concentric AI
  • Email/Web Gateways: Proofpoint, Mimecast, Microsoft Defender for Office 365
  • SASE/CASB: Netskope, Palo Alto Networks, Microsoft Defender for Cloud Apps
  • IAM/IGA: Okta, SailPoint, Microsoft Entra, Ping Identity
• Architect solutions that integrate with clients’ existing SIEMs, SOARs, and data pipelines, including tools like:
  • Splunk
  • Azure Sentinel
  • IBM Qradar
  • Palo Alto Cortex XSOAR
  • CrowdStrike Next-Gen SIEM
• Ensure security architectures align with Zero Trust, compliance mandates, and evolving operational needs.
• Continuously evaluate and introduce emerging technologies that improve visibility, automation, and incident response across the extended security stack.
• Provide technical leadership, mentorship, and guidance to other engineers and consultants across the Security Solutions team.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university or relevant work experience required.
• 8 years of experience in cybersecurity or infrastructure architecture, including at least 5+ years focused on Data Security or Threat Detection & Response.
• Deep expertise in solution architecture for enterprise security environments, including cloud and hybrid infrastructures.
• Strong understanding of Zero Trust architecture and how to apply it in real-world enterprise settings.
• Strong experience designing technology solutions for Fortune 500 companies.
• Comfortable engaging with both technical and executive audiences, including presenting solutions, leading design sessions, and supporting client relationships throughout pre-sales and post-sales phases.
• Strong familiarity with security compliance frameworks such as NIST, ISO 27001, CIS Benchmarks, or PCI-DSS.
• Broad knowledge and hands-on familiarity with core security disciplines, including Endpoint Security and Management, Cloud Security, Next-Generation SIEM/SOAR, Advanced Threat Protection, Email Security, Identity and Access Management, and Data Protection across multiple vendors.
• Strong interpersonal skills; able to work well with people from many different disciplines.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, excellent time management skills and able to effectively prioritize tasks in a fast-paced, high-volume, and evolving work environment.
• Comfortable managing multiple and changing priorities, and meeting deadlines in an entrepreneurial environment.
• Perform other duties and/or special projects as assigned.

Actual salary will be based on a variety of factors, including location, experience, skill set, performance, licensure and certification, and business needs. The range for this position in other geographic locations may differ. Certain positions may also be eligible for variable incentive compensation, such as bonuses or commissions, that is not included in the base salary.

$170,700 - $190,000 USD

The Perks

• Comprehensive medical, dental and vision plans for you and your dependents
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with Employer Match, 529 College Savings Plan, Health Savings Account, Life Insurance, and Long-Term Disability
• Competitive Compensation
• Training and development programs
• Stocked kitchen with snacks and beverages
• Collaborative and cool culture
• Work-life balance and generous paid time off

Our Commitment

At the core of Trace3's DNA is our people. We are a diverse group of talented individuals who understand the importance of teamwork and demonstrating leadership, character, and passion in all that we do.

We’re committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and empowered to grow. We recognize that embracing diversity drives innovation, improves outcomes, fosters collaboration, boosts teammate satisfaction, and builds a more inclusive culture.

As an equal opportunity employer, Trace3 bases all employment decisions based on individual qualifications, merit, and business requirements. We do not engage in discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

Any demographic information provided is strictly voluntary, kept confidential in accordance with Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) regulations, and will not be used in employment decisions, including hiring, promotions, or mentorship programs. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all.

If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process or participate in an interview, please [e-mail] .

***To all recruitment agencies:Trace3 does not accept unsolicited agency resumes/CVs. Please do not forward resumes/CVs to our careers email addresses, Trace3 employees or any other company location. Trace3 is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes/CVs.

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