Software Architect in Guildford

Akkodis is seeking an experienced Software Architect to support the delivery of advanced cloud-based geospatial software solutions on a major high-profile engineering and defence programme. Working as part of an embedded customer team, you will play a critical role in defining scalable, secure and high-performance software architectures for mission-critical applications. This position offers the opportunity to work on technically complex systems where architectural decisions directly influence operational capability, cyber resilience, scalability and long-term maintainability. You will operate at the centre of the engineering organisation, collaborating closely with system architects, software engineers, product owners and delivery teams to guide technical direction and ensure robust software solutions are delivered to the highest standards.

Responsibilities:

• Translate high-level business and system requirements into scalable and secure software architecture.
• Design modern cloud-native architectures for complex geospatial and data-driven systems.
• Define architectural approaches that balance performance, security, reliability, maintainability, scalability, and compliance requirements.
• Support technical decision-making across the software development team.
• Collaborate within Agile Scrum delivery environments alongside engineers, testers and Product Owners.
• Select and evaluate appropriate technologies, frameworks, design patterns, and integration approaches.
• Identify technical risks and develop pragmatic mitigation strategies.
• Ensure delivered solutions align with agreed architectural standards and non-functional requirements.
• Produce high-quality technical documentation, including design rationale, technical roadmap, and interface specifications.
• Support technical governance activities including design reviews and architectural assurance.
• Mentor and guide engineering teams on best practice and architectural direction.
• Contribute to continuous improvement across engineering processes and DevSecOps practices.

Required Experience & Skills:

• Proven experience designing software architectures for complex enterprise or mission-critical systems.
• Strong background in cloud-based and distributed architectures.
• Experience working within secure or regulated engineering environments.
• Good understanding of DevSecOps principles and secure software development practices.
• Experience with modern software architecture approaches such as microservices, event-driven architecture, and containerised platforms.
• Knowledge of cloud technologies and platforms such as AWS, Azure or Kubernetes-based environments.
• Ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Experience supporting Agile software delivery teams.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capability.
• Experience producing clear technical documentation and architecture artefacts.
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to mentor and support engineering teams.
• Experience working with geospatial systems, GIS platforms or location-based technologies.
• Knowledge of secure defence, aerospace or critical national infrastructure environments.
• Familiarity with DevSecOps toolchains, Infrastructure as Code, and security accreditation processes.
• Experience with high-availability and high-performance software systems.
• Understanding of software assurance, governance and compliance standards.

Work on complex, meaningful programmes with real-world operational impact. Influence long-term technical direction and engineering strategy. Collaborate with highly skilled multidisciplinary engineering teams. Gain exposure to advanced secure cloud and geospatial technologies. Access professional development, technical training and career progression opportunities within Akkodis.