IT ArchitectIntelligent Waves is seeking an experienced IT Architect with extensive expertise in enterprise systems engineering, architecture, and systems integration. The ideal candidate will serve as the lead technical authority for the program, partnering directly with the IT Program Manager to drive the architecture, design, integration, and execution of complex engineering initiatives. This individual will be responsible for translating mission and operational requirements into scalable, secure, and effective technical solutions while guiding the engineering team through successful implementation efforts.
The role requires a strong problem solver who can make sound technical decisions, lead cross-functional engineering activities, and deliver high-quality results in a fast-paced, mission-focused environment.Location: Eglin AFB, FL Travel: 25%. Travel is expected (for contingency and surge operations) Travel will be reimbursed based on GSA Per Diem rates and DoD Joint Travel Regulations (JTR). Clearance Requirement: SecretIntelligent Waves delivers mission-focused multi-domain operational expertise and innovation to the Government through high-impact technology solutions in cybersecurity, data science, enterprise network & systems engineering, software development, and cognitive human performance. ANYTIME. ANYWHERE. ANY DOMAIN.Since 2006, we have proudly served federal agencies including the Department of Defense. Our ability to operate globally in a wide range of environments, coupled with our deep understanding of customer needs and requirements, enables us to provide cost-effective solutions to support the most complex missions.Adherence to all customer site protocols is mandatory for employees.ResponsibilitiesEngineering Team Leadership Set architectural direction, define quality standards, and mentor engineers to ensure consistent, mission-aligned delivery across the team.Solution Architecture Design and document enterprise IT architectures — compute, storage, networking, and software stack — across multi-site environments, driving hardware and software modernization.Systems Engineering & Integration Lead requirements analysis, integration, testing, and verification to ensure solutions meet DoD/Air Force standards and transition successfully to operations.Stakeholder Engagement Align technical solutions with program requirements by partnering with the IT Program Manager, customer stakeholders, and DoD mission partners.Technical Planning Build and maintain technology roadmaps and configuration baselines across program sites, including hardware refresh cycles and software lifecycle planning.Cybersecurity Integration Ensure all solutions meet RMF compliance by embedding security into architecture and integration processes in coordination with the cybersecurity team.Network Architecture Own network architecture design — connectivity, segmentation, and transport — ensuring full alignment with the overall solution architecture.Technology Innovation Evaluate and recommend hardware and software technologies to improve capability and performance; stay current on infrastructure trends, DevSecOps, and containerization.Technical Documentation Produce architecture documents, configuration standards, integration plans, and design decision records to support handoff to integration and operations teams.Risk Management Identify technical risks across hardware, software, and integration domains and develop mitigation strategies to protect schedule, performance, and mission outcomes.QualificationsClearance & EducationActive Secret security clearance with the ability to obtain a TS/SCI clearanceBachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Systems Engineering, or a related technical field; equivalent combination of education and experience will be consideredProfessional Experience10+ years of progressive experience in IT systems engineering, systems integration, enterprise architecture, or related technical disciplines within DoD or government environmentsProven experience serving as an IT Architect or equivalent technical design authority supporting complex, multi-site enterprise IT programsDemonstrated ability to lead engineering teams through the full solution lifecycle, including architecture, integration, implementation, testing, and operational deliveryExperience working in fast-paced, mission-focused environments with evolving operational prioritiesEnterprise Architecture & Systems EngineeringStrong background in enterprise infrastructure architecture including compute, storage, networking, hardware platforms, and software stack designExperience with configuration management, integration planning, and architecture documentation developmentProficiency designing and supporting enterprise-level Windows Server and Linux (RHEL/CentOS) environmentsExperience with virtualization technologies such as VMware vSphere or equivalent platformsExperience with enterprise storage solutions, backup architectures, and disaster recovery strategiesNetworking & Identity ManagementSolid understanding of enterprise networking concepts including routing, switching, segmentation, and firewall architectureExperience with Active Directory, LDAP, and identity and access management (IAM) architecturesCybersecurity & ComplianceFamiliarity with DoD cybersecurity frameworks, including RMF and ATO processesExperience implementing or supporting security hardening and compliance standards such as STIGs and CIS benchmarksPreferred QualificationsClearance & CertificationsActive TS/SCI clearanceRelevant industry certifications such as CISSP, CCNP, CompTIA Security+, or equivalentSpecialized DoD ExperienceExperience supporting DoD spectrum warfare, electronic warfare, or mission data management programsExperience working within SAP/SAR network environmentsExperience designing and integrating classified or air-gapped network architecturesFamiliarity with DDIL (Disconnected, Degraded, Intermittent, and Limited) communications architecturesAdvanced Infrastructure & Platform ExpertiseAdvanced proficiency with Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) administration and architectureExperience with containerization technologies including Docker, Kubernetes, and OpenShiftExperience with Infrastructure as Code (IaC) tools such as Terraform and PackerFamiliarity with Elastic Stack technologies including Elasticsearch, Logstash, and Kibana (ELK Stack)Experience supporting DevSecOps environments and CI/CD pipeline tooling including GitLab and Artifactory