Lead Architect

Senior/Lead Architect (AWS/IBM/API)
Location: Torrance, CA (Onsite work Monday Thursday and Remote on Friday)
Contract Duration: September 2025 March 31, 2026 with possibility of an extension

This Senior/Lead Architect will serve as a Visionary Lead Architect to spearhead a dynamic team of over 20 architects across diverse domains and cutting-edge technologies. The ideal candidate will be driving innovation across diverse domains from legacy to cutting-edge technologies. This Architect will be a catalyst for architectural excellence and a strategic thinker, adept at seamlessly aligning technology strategies with business goals.
Daily Tasks Performed Will Include the Following:

• Manage Architectural Services Objectives for Projects, Portfolios, Enhancements of client apps.

• Define, track, and achieve architectural services objectives to ensure alignment with business goals and project requirements.
• Lead and mentor a team of 20+ architects.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including clients, vendors, and internal teams.
• Define and enforce architectural standards and best practices.
• Collaborate with senior leadership on technology strategies.
• Oversee design and implementation of scalable, secure solutions across multiple platforms and technologies.
• Drive innovation by exploring and adopting new technologies.
• Ensure effective communication and collaboration with stakeholders.
• Conduct regular reviews of architectural designs.
• Manage resource allocation and performance evaluations.
• Provide technical leadership on complex projects.
• Foster continuous improvement and professional development.
• Track and resolve architectural issues and prioritize tasks.
• Manage architect assignments and demand.
• Track risks and challenges, developing mitigation strategies.
• Serve as a visionary and strategist for long-term architectural goals.
• Oversee the architectural budget, ensuring cost-effective solutions and resource allocation.
• Manage relationships with vendor partners to ensure alignment with architectural standards and business goals.
• Establish and maintain governance frameworks for team and vendor partners to ensure the effectiveness of architecture services.
• Prepare and present weekly and monthly reports on architectural progress, challenges, and achievements.

Required Skills and Expertise:

• Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field.
• 15+ years of experience in architecture and technology leadership.
• Critical Must Have Skills:
• Proficient in AWS Cloud Technologies
• Hands-on experience with key AWS services including EC2, CloudWatch, Splunk integration, AWS Transfer Family, and Kafka. Strong understanding of general cloud architecture and operational best practices.
• Expertise in IBM Integration Stack
• Skilled in implementing and managing IBM CloudPak for Integration, OpenShift Container Platform, IBM DataPower Gateway, and App Connect Enterprise (ACE).
• Integration Architecture & Governance
• Provide architectural oversight and establish governance frameworks to ensure adherence to enterprise Integration Standards and best practices across multiple projects.
• API Security Protocols
• Deep understanding and practical application of modern API security mechanisms including OAuth 2.0, JWT (JSON Web Tokens), and SSL/TLS to secure data in transit and ensure compliance.
• Comprehensive API Lifecycle Management
• Manage the full lifecycle of APIs including design, deployment, monitoring, and retirement. Ensure centralized control over API traffic, enforce security policies, and provide actionable analytics.
• Relevant certifications are highly desirable.
• Extensive experience across multiple domains and technologies.
• Strong understanding of architectural principles and best practices.
• Experience in Salesforce, automotive, captive finance, and data analytics sectors is preferred.
• Experience working with the following technologies and platforms:
• Enterprise architecture
• Software development
• Infrastructure
• Databases
• Microservices and containerization
• Security and compliance
• Data analytics and AI/ML
• Mobile and web applications
• Ability to understand and manage architectural budgets and financial constraints.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to drive innovation and adopt new technologies.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with Agile methodologies and DevOps practices is a plus.

Required Competencies:

• Strategic Thinking: Develop and implement long-term technology strategies.
• Leadership: Lead, mentor, and inspire a large team of architects.
• Communication: Convey complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
• Innovation: Drive innovation and adopt new technologies.
• Collaboration: Work effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Problem-Solving : Address complex technical challenges.