Software Architect Job Description Template

Use this Software Architect job description template to advertise the open roles for free using Longlist.io. You can use this template as a starting point, modify the requirements according the needs of your organization or the client you are hiring for.

Job Brief

We are looking for an experienced Software Architect to make intuitive high level decisions for software development. You will see the “big picture” and create architectural approaches for software design and implementation to guide the development team.

A great software architect has a strong technical background and excellent IT skills. They are experienced in designing and possess ability to develop a unified vision for software characteristics and functions.

The goal is to provide a framework for the development of a software or system that will result in high quality IT solutions.

Responsibilities

  • Collaborate with other professionals to determine functional and non-functional requirements for new software or applications
  • Use tools and methodologies to create representations for functions and user interface of desired product
  • Develop high-level product specifications with attention to system integration and feasibility
  • Define all aspects of development from appropriate technology and workflow to coding standards
  • Communicate successfully all concepts and guidelines to development team
  • Oversee progress of development team to ensure consistency with initial design
  • Provide technical guidance and coaching to developers and engineers
  • Ensure software meets all requirements of quality, security, modifiability, extensibility etc.
  • Approve final product before launch

Requirements

  • Proven experience as software architect
  • Experience in software development and coding in various languages (C#, .NET, Java etc.)
  • Excellent knowledge of software and application design and architecture
  • Excellent knowledge of UML and other modeling methods
  • Familiarity with HTML/CSS, JavaScript and UI/UX design
  • Understanding of software quality assurance principles
  • A technical mindset with great attention to detail
  • High quality organizational and leadership skills
  • Outstanding communication and presentation abilities
  • MSc/MA in computer science, engineering or relevant field

What does Software Architect do?

On a day-to-day basis, a Software Architect is responsible for the following tasks:

  1. Designing and reviewing software architecture: This involves creating architectural designs for software systems, considering factors such as scalability, maintainability, performance, security, and integration with other systems. Architects also review and provide feedback on architecture designs created by other team members.

  2. Collaborating with stakeholders: Software Architects work closely with stakeholders, including business analysts, product managers, and development teams to understand the requirements and objectives of a software project. They gather input from various perspectives and ensure that the architecture aligns with the goals of the project.

  3. Providing technical guidance: Architects provide technical leadership and guidance to development teams throughout the software development life cycle. They help identify technical challenges, suggest solutions, and ensure that best practices and coding standards are followed.

  4. Conducting code and design reviews: Software Architects review code and design documents to ensure they adhere to architectural principles, patterns, and standards. They look for areas of improvement, identify any potential risks, and recommend design enhancements or changes.

  5. Researching and evaluating new technologies: Architects constantly stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in software development. They research new technologies, tools, and frameworks that can improve the software architecture, enhance development productivity, or solve specific business problems.

  6. Participating in meetings and discussions: Architects actively participate in meetings, including daily stand-ups, planning sessions, retrospectives, and architecture discussions. They collaborate with cross-functional teams, contribute to decision-making, and help resolve technical challenges.

  7. Mentoring and coaching: Software Architects provide guidance and mentorship to less experienced team members. They help them understand and apply architectural principles, review their work, and support their professional growth.

  8. Documentation: Architects document the software architecture, including system diagrams, design patterns, and decisions made. This documentation serves as a reference for the development team and other stakeholders.

  9. Continuous improvement: Architects continuously analyze and evaluate the architecture's effectiveness. They identify areas of improvement, learn from past experiences, and propose architectural refinements or adjustments to enhance future projects.

  10. Keeping up with industry standards: Architects stay informed about industry standards and best practices, ensuring that architectural decisions align with the latest coding guidelines, compliance requirements, and security standards.

It's worth noting that the exact responsibilities may vary depending on the organization, project, and team structure.