Software Architect (SC Cleared)

Role overview

This position sits within a secure, mission-critical environment where you will shape the technical direction of a Service Management platform. As the design authority, you will ensure the solution remains secure, resilient, scalable, and aligned with business and operational needs. The role suits an experienced Software Developer, Infrastructure Engineer, or Architect who is ready to move into a senior architecture position with broader influence over strategy and delivery.

What you will do

• Own the architectural direction for the platform and steer technical decision-making.
• Lead analysis and design work for system improvements and solution changes.
• Maintain the technical solution, associated requirements, and the functional baseline.
• Review, govern, and approve enhancements, updates, and architectural modifications.
• Protect the platform through strong security oversight and governance practices.
• Administer and maintain Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) services.
• Assess both functional and non-functional requirements to confirm solution fit.
• Support development and operations teams through design reviews and technical mentoring.
• Work closely with business, delivery, development, and operations stakeholders.
• Spot architectural risks, dependencies, and areas where the platform can improve.
• Explore and help introduce new technologies, methods, and best practices.

What you need

You should bring solid software architecture experience and a track record of designing and governing secure enterprise systems. The role requires someone who can translate business needs into technical solutions, communicate clearly with varied stakeholders, and provide leadership across the software lifecycle. Experience in secure or regulated settings would be a strong advantage.

• Background as a Software Architect, Solution Architect, Senior Software Engineer, or in a comparable technical leadership role.
• Good grasp of architecture principles, design patterns, and system modelling techniques.
• Experience evaluating and validating functional and non-functional requirements.
• Confidence in making and governing architecture decisions in complex environments.
• Exposure to software delivery, operational support, and continuous improvement.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills.
• Understanding of systems integration and enterprise architecture concepts.
• Experience with technical reviews, documentation, and architecture governance.
• Working knowledge of development technologies, frameworks, and deployment environments.
• Ability to obtain or already hold UK Security Clearance.

Desirable experience

• Hands-on experience administering or managing PKI.
• Experience in defence, government, secure, or otherwise highly regulated environments.
• Previous work in software development, infrastructure engineering, or systems engineering.
• Familiarity with modern development approaches and DevSecOps practices.

Benefits and culture

The employer offers a competitive salary, strong pension support, private healthcare, and a share scheme with 3.5% company contribution plus 3.5% matching. You would also be part of a collaborative and inclusive environment with training and support to help develop your career. The organization highlights recognition in major workplace awards and a commitment to building a diverse technology community, including support for Armed Forces talent.

Location and working pattern

This role is based in Reading, England, United Kingdom, and requires five days per week on-site.

Security requirement

Because of the sensitive nature of the programme, candidates must already hold UK Security Clearance or be eligible to obtain it.