Lead Systems Architect
Nightwing· Defense & Intelligence Services· Jul 12, 2026 · 4mo agoPosted 107 days ago
Sterling, VA
Hybrid
Full-time
Lead
$122K–$253K
Before you apply
Ghost Signal:
Open since July 12, 2026 — 107 days, and still accepting applications.
Job description
Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers’ most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.
Job Title: Lead Systems Architect
Location: Sterling, VA
Clearance: TS/SCI Poly
**This position is CONTINGENT upon contract award**
The Lead Systems Architect (LSA) is responsible for the design, delivery, and overarching technical architecture of the on-premise secure multi tenant infrastructure environment as well as understanding Sponsor s technical requirements and how they impact the program. Oversee the Platform and Operations and Tenant teams to ensure solutions are consistent, interoperable, resilient, and secure. The LSA collaboratively works closely with the Platform, Operations teams, mission partners and Sponsor to refine the operational and technical strategy to automate key portions of the development and operational workflows across all teams, enabling timely development and deployment of system capabilities. The LSA works with the Sponsor and Stakeholders to develop an understanding of mission needs, gaps analyses, and align new capabilities to those mission needs. The LSA continuously monitors changing and emergent technology, systems, capabilities, and regulatory/policy advancements and research for impact or improvement to the Sponsor s mission. Daily tasks include, but are not limited to:
Provide creative and innovative architectural solutions to meet program requirements.
Work with Sponsor, Mission partners, and technical personnel to deliver a robust multi-tenant hybrid cloud based scalable architecture that meets the program Mission goals
Create hybrid cloud delivery model strategy and manage the adaptation process
Analyze client-based platform (cloud applications, hardware, and software) to support enhancements to current applications and systems
Analyze requirements and provide highly innovative technical expertise on cloud cluster computing techniques, technologies, and related cloud architecture
Bridge gaps between complex business problems and solutions in the cloud
Develop roadmap activities that support the development of an enhanced SYSTEM, comprehensive data collection, mitigation strategies to move towards IaaS, and development of metrics to drive IT improvements.
Works with Platform/Operations teams to compose technical documents including Design, Deployment, System specifications and IaC baselines, updates, user s manuals, training materials, installation guides, proposals, and reports.
Required Skills:
Strong understanding of cloud computing concepts and principles.
Experience with major cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP).
Knowledge of networking, virtualization, and operating systems.
Familiarity with cloud security best practices and technologies.
Experience with cloud migration and deployment strategies.
Ability to design and implement highly available and scalable solutions.
Strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
Desired Skills:
Experience with containerization technologies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes).
Familiarity with DevOps practices and automation tools.
Experience with cloud-based data management and analytics solutions.
Knowledge of programming languages (e.g., Python, Java) for cloud automation.
Experience with cloud governance and compliance requirements.
Knowledge of specific industry requirements and regulations.
Desired Certs:
AWS Solutions Architect Professional, Microsoft Azure Solutions Architect Expert, Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect, CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional), and CompTIA Cloud .
Salary & Benefits
The salary associated with this position ($122,000-$253,000) is commensurate with the selected candidate’s qualifications, years of relevant experience, and demonstrated level of expertise. Compensation will be determined based on these factors to ensure alignment with skills, responsibilities, and market standards.
Nightwing offers medical, vision and dental insurance coverage in addition to a 401k plan, PTO, Holidays, and additional insurances.
Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class.
Application prep
Use the role’s language and application details while tailoring your materials.
Keywords to mirror
awsazuregcpdockerkubernetespythonjava
- Platform
- workday
- Effort
- long
Benefits
Benefits detected in the listing.
Dental
Vision
401k
Pto