Lead Enterprise Architect (Banking)

Key Details:

• Direct Hire/Perm


• Location: 100% Onsite in La Jolla, San Diego, CA (candidate must be local or willing to relocate)


• Requirements: 7-10+ years Banking experience, leadership (informal OK), background in business and technology architecture


• Pay: $185-225k + bonus

Position Summary:

We are looking for a seasoned Lead Enterprise Architect to shape and drive the execution of our software development roadmap in alignment with our broader company strategy. The ideal candidate will bring experience from the Banking or Fintech sectors, possess a strong ability to see the "big picture," and define architectural strategies that guide software design and implementation across a variety of financial services domains. This role demands a solid technical foundation and proven software development expertise, particularly in designing scalable, modular, maintainable, extensible, and secure systems. The ability to craft a unified architectural vision and communicate it effectively across all levels-from developers to executive leadership-is essential.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop architectural specifications that address both functional and non-functional requirements, including usability, reliability, availability, modularity, interoperability, maintainability, testability, and security.


• Apply modern architectural patterns such as microservices, cloud-native, serverless, event-driven, reactive systems, domain-driven design, API-first approaches, and DevOps practices.


• Integrate emerging technologies-AI, machine learning, big data, IoT, blockchain, and cloud services-to enhance software capabilities and deliver competitive advantages.


• Establish and uphold engineering standards, methodologies, and best practices to ensure consistency and quality across development efforts.


• Mentor and guide cross-functional software teams-including architects, developers, QA, and DevOps-while fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and technical excellence.


• Partner closely with product management, business stakeholders, and technology teams to translate customer needs and market trends into impactful software solutions.


• Continuously evaluate new technologies, frameworks, and tools, offering strategic recommendations for adoption and integration.


• Monitor software performance, scalability, security, and quality, proactively identifying and resolving risks or issues.


• Document and present architectural designs and implementation strategies to internal and external stakeholders, including executives, clients, and partners.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.


• 10+ years of experience in software engineering.


• 5+ years of experience in software architecture and design.


• Background in Banking and/or Fintech is required.


• Demonstrated success in designing and delivering complex, scalable software solutions for both B2B and B2C applications.


• Proficiency in a wide range of technologies and tools, including but not limited to Java, Python, C#, .NET, Node.js, React, Angular, Vue, Flutter, AWS, Azure, Google Cloud Platform, Docker, and Kubernetes.


• Deep understanding of modern architecture principles and patterns, including microservices, serverless, event-driven systems, and DevOps.


• Experience leveraging advanced technologies such as AI, ML, big data, IoT, and blockchain to drive innovation.


• Strong background in implementing and enforcing engineering best practices, including Agile, Scrum, Kanban, CI/CD, code reviews, and continuous improvement.


• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.


• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic, and innovative environment.


• Passion for continuous learning and sharing knowledge across diverse technical teams.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance


• Paid Sick Leave, 3 Weeks of Vacation, and ~11 Paid Holidays


• HSA or FSA options and additional voluntary benefits


• 401(k) Retirement Plan with Employer Match and 529 College Savings Plan


• Employee Mortgage Loan Program and complimentary access to a company bank account with self-directed trading

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, or military or veteran status. We consider all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with state and local laws, including the California Fair Chance Act, City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance.