IT Solution Architect

Introduction

Saab UK is part of Scandinavia's largest defence company, bringing together the best of Swedish and British innovation. Saab offers world-leading solutions and services in defence, aviation, space, and civil security to keep people and society safe. Our UK presence has been growing at pace, meaning we can offer a wide range of opportunities for personal fulfilment and career growth. We currently employ over 600 people across eight sites in the UK, and our specialisations include software engineering, underwater robotics, radars, AI, and armed forces training.

The Role:

This is an initial 6 month contract role within our UK IT Business Unit.

The IT Solution Architect will be responsible for designing and implementing technology solutions that align with business objectives and technical requirements. This role bridges the gap between business needs and IT capabilities, ensuring that solutions are scalable, secure, and cost-effective. The Solution Architect works closely with stakeholders, developers, and project managers to deliver robust architectures that support organisational goals.

Key Responsibilities:

Solution Design & Architecture to a high standard.

Develop high-level and detailed solution architectures for IT systems and applications.

Ensure solutions comply with enterprise architecture standards, security policies, and regulatory requirements.

Create architectural diagrams, models, and documentation for proposed solutions.

Stakeholder Engagement

Collaborate with business analysts, project managers, and technical teams to understand requirements.

Present architectural solutions to stakeholders and obtain buy-in.

Technology Evaluation

Assess emerging technologies and recommend adoption where appropriate.

Conduct feasibility studies and cost-benefit analyses for proposed solutions.

Governance & Standards

Define and enforce architectural principles, guidelines, and best practices.

Ensure consistency and integration across systems and platforms.

Implementation Support

Provide technical leadership during solution implementation.

Troubleshoot architectural issues and guide development teams.

Perform Risk Management.

Identify potential risks in solution design and propose mitigation strategies.

Ensure compliance with data protection and cybersecurity standards.

Qualifications and Skills:

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field.

7+ years in IT roles, with at least 3 years in solution architecture.

Experience in large-scale system design and implementation.

Certifications (Preferred).

TOGAF, AWS/Azure Solution Architect, ITIL.

Knowledge of enterprise architecture frameworks (e.g., TOGAF, Zachman).

Proficiency in cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and hybrid architectures.

Experience with APIs, microservices, and integration patterns.

Understanding of networking, security, and infrastructure principles.

Analytical & Problem-Solving.

Ability to translate business requirements into technical solutions.

Strong analytical skills for evaluating complex systems.

Communication & Leadership.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Ability to influence and negotiate with stakeholders at all levels.

Self-motivated, resilient and able to work under pressure.

Excellent communication and presentation skills.

By submitting an application to Saab UK you consent to undertaking workforce screening activities that may include but are not limited to: Baseline Personnel Security checks, National Security Vetting, reference checks, verification of working rights and in all circumstances preferred candidates will be placed through a security interview