Job Description
Job Description
TITLE : Systems Architect
LOCATION : Sterling, VA
CLEARANCE REQUIRED : Active DoD TS / SCI with CI Polygraph
EMPLOYMENT TYPE : Full-time, On-site
POSITION SUMMARY
Modern Government Solutions (MGS) is seeking an experienced Systems Architect to lead the development and modernization of mission-critical IT systems supporting national security operations. The Architect will define end-to-end system architectures, guide technical teams, and ensure interoperability, scalability, and compliance across complex enterprise environments. This position is ideal for a forward-thinking engineer who excels at solving technical challenges, driving innovation, and communicating with customers to shape the future architecture of secure government systems.
RESPONSIBILITIES (not limited to) :
- Define and develop system architectures that align with mission objectives, technical requirements, and security standards.
- Lead architecture design sessions and provide technical direction across engineering, operations, and cybersecurity teams.
- Translate stakeholder needs into functional and technical requirements, design documents, and integration strategies.
- Evaluate existing systems, identify gaps, and develop modernization or migration roadmaps.
- Oversee system interoperability and data exchange between diverse hardware, software, and network environments.
- Ensure architectures meet performance, reliability, and scalability objectives while maintaining compliance with security frameworks.
- Collaborate with program managers and customers to align technical solutions with mission goals.
- Review and validate system designs, configurations, and implementation plans for accuracy and executability.
- Stay informed on emerging technologies and recommend innovations to improve system efficiency and resilience.
- Prepare architecture documentation, decision briefs, and technical presentations to support leadership and stakeholders.
- Develop and maintain system roadmaps, including detailed engineering plans, schedules, and milestones to guide implementation and sustainment activities.
- Prepare and deliver technical briefings and architecture presentations to senior leadership and stakeholder audiences.
- Combine interpersonal skills, technical acumen and organized thinking to build technical credibility and customer trust in the program.
- Drive innovation and solution-oriented thinking, identifying opportunities to enhance system performance, efficiency, and mission alignment.
REQUIRED SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS
Must possess an active Department of Defense (DoD) TS / SCI with CI Polygraph security clearance.Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).5-8 years of experience in systems architecture, engineering, or integration within enterprise or mission-critical environments.Proven ability to design and document complex, multi-tiered systems that meet stringent security and performance standards.Experience with system security, risk management, and accreditation processes (e.g., RMF, NIST, STIGs).Experience supporting large-scale or data-intensive environments, ensuring scalability and performance optimization.Experience instrumenting IT systems for performance measurement, monitoring, and optimization.Strong understanding of infrastructure design principles across compute, network, and storage domains.Familiarity with integrating GOTS and COTS software into complex system architectures.Familiarity with large-scale infrastructure release and configuration management practices.Understanding of CI / CD pipeline processes and their integration into enterprise system delivery.Demonstrated success leading cross-functional technical teams and collaborating with government or industry partners.Excellent communication and analytical skills, with the ability to convey technical concepts to varied audiences.PREFERRED SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS
CompTIA Security+ certification (DoD 8570 compliant).Experience with cloud, virtualization, or container-based system architectures.Experience with Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) processes and related tools.Familiarity with automation and orchestration frameworks.Knowledge of enterprise data management and system monitoring best practices.Background supporting defense or intelligence community programs.Experience developing architecture standards or technical reference models.Relevant professional certifications (e.g., AWS Solutions Architect, CISSP, DoD 8570, or equivalent).Applicants selected will be United States citizens and may be subject to a government security investigation for access to classified information.ABOUT US
At MGS, we believe a people-first culture corresponds to organizational success through a commitment to excellence, integrity, inclusion, and an attitude that welcomes challenges meets demands, sustains growth, and drives innovation. We provide expert mission-first technical and programmatic services and solutions for the US intelligence community, the US Department of Defense, and other governmental agencies. We create people-first organizational cultures where employees feel needed in the system, not a system that needs employees. We provide you with long-term career opportunities centrally focused on our core value system : inclusion, integrity, and a commitment to excellence.
MGS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.