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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape cutting-edge SATCOM architectures and collaborate with dynamic teams.
- Company: Thorn SDS, a niche Managed Service Provider in Space, Defence, and Security.
- Benefits: 25 days annual leave, health cashback, wellbeing services, and training opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a pivotal role within the Defence Digital environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in military communications satellite systems and system architecture development.
- Other info: Join a supportive team with excellent career growth and development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
Thorn SDS is a niche Managed Service Provider, committed to enabling technology organisations and professionals to thrive within the Space, Defence and Security sectors. We are currently recruiting for a Systems Architect with SATCOM experience, to support the development of architecture baselines for cutting‑edge SATCOM programmes. This is a pivotal role where your expertise will shape the “As‑Is” and “To‑Be” system architectures, ensuring alignment with user needs, technical processes, and MOD standards. You’ll be part of a dynamic Defence Digital environment, collaborating with engineers, stakeholders, and programme teams to deliver structured, maintainable, and future‑ready system architectures.
Responsibilities
- Support the SATCOM architecture team within the SEDA framework.
- Develop and maintain SATCOM Programmes System Architecture baselines.
- Capture and manage system interfaces, interdependencies, and architecture documentation in the Authority repository.
- Translate user needs into system functionality using Use Cases.
- Contribute to the SATCOM architecture roadmap from “As‑Is” to “To‑Be.”
- Communicate effectively between technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
Essential Knowledge, Skills & Experience
- Military communications satellite systems knowledge.
- Familiarity with MOD ways of working (KiD, GEAR).
- Proven experience developing system architecture baselines, including interface control.
- Strong understanding of technical architecture processes for complex systems.
- Knowledge of Satellite Communication Systems.
- Familiarity with the NATO Architecture Framework (NAF).
- Ability to translate user needs into clear, functional systems using Use Cases.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
Desirable Knowledge & Experience
- Experience with architecture tools (BizzDesign preferred, Sparx EA).
- Knowledge of architecture modelling languages (ArchiMate preferred, UML, SysML).
- Understanding of full Systems Engineering lifecycle (INCOSE, ISO/IEC 15288).
- Experience developing service architectures and solutions.
Benefits
- 25 days Annual Leave (plus Bank Holidays)
- Employer Pension Contributions
- Group Life Insurance
- Dental Cashback Plan
- Health Cashback Plan
- Wellbeing Services (includes GP, Physio and Savings Benefits)
- Thorn Wellbeing Support Contribution
- Employee Referral Scheme
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Supported Training & Personal Development Opportunities
If you have the expertise to support this requirement and are eager to make an impact in a critical role, please apply today! All applicants must hold the Right to Work in the UK and already possess, or be eligible to obtain, a high level of National Security Clearance.
Systems Architect - SATCOM employer: Thorn SDS Ltd
Contact Detail:
Thorn SDS Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Systems Architect - SATCOM
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the industry, especially those who work at Thorn SDS or similar companies. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just land you an interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or case studies that highlight your experience with SATCOM systems and architecture. When you get the chance to chat with recruiters or during interviews, let your expertise shine through.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get comfortable discussing technical concepts and how they relate to user needs. Mock interviews with friends or mentors can help you articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the team at Thorn SDS.
We think you need these skills to ace Systems Architect - SATCOM
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. Highlight your SATCOM experience and any relevant projects you've worked on, so we can see how you fit into our team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you're passionate about this role and how your background aligns with our needs. Be sure to mention your familiarity with MOD standards and any architecture tools you've used.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since you'll be working with both technical and non-technical stakeholders, it's important to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively. Use clear language and examples in your application to show us you can bridge that gap.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. This way, we can easily track your application and get back to you quicker. Plus, it shows us you're keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thorn SDS Ltd
✨Know Your SATCOM Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of military communications satellite systems and the MOD ways of working. Being able to discuss specific examples from your experience will show that you’re not just familiar with the concepts, but that you can apply them in real-world scenarios.
✨Master the Architecture Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with the NATO Architecture Framework and any architecture modelling languages like ArchiMate or UML. Be ready to explain how you've used these frameworks in past projects, as this will demonstrate your technical expertise and understanding of complex systems.
✨Communicate Like a Pro
Since you'll be liaising with both technical and non-technical stakeholders, practice explaining complex ideas in simple terms. Think about how you can translate user needs into system functionality using Use Cases, and be prepared to share examples of how you've done this before.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
This role involves collaboration with engineers and programme teams, so highlight your teamwork skills. Share stories that showcase your ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment, and how you’ve contributed to successful outcomes in previous roles.