Systems Architect

Systems Architect Job Description

A systems architect is an IT specialist who designs and develops the structure of computer-controlled systems to meet the needs and expectations of the end user. Computer architects are involved in the conception and operation of hardware and software systems as well as intranet connections, technical infrastructure, and systems security. They work on improving the technology used in businesses and on developing and implementing new technologies. The systems architect provides expertise and architectural support to other IT professionals, including software teams, computer systems analysts, and engineers. The task of the systems architect is to create processes for establishing and implementing changes that increase sustainability and prepare for future stages of business expansion.    

A systems architect is a professional responsible for systems development, including the design, implementation, and maintenance of databases and critical computer systems. They plan activities and projects, monitor the installed systems, troubleshoot problems, provide feedback, and focus on maximizing quality and efficiency in the systems and networks. Systems architect jobs include the design, implementation, and maintenance of databases and computer information systems, as well as the management and maintenance of the data storage systems and system architecture.  

Systems architect jobs include performing tests to ensure that computer systems meet the safety and quality standards set by the company, such as the PCI-DSS (PCI Express) standard. The system architect and their team conduct technical research and analyses to determine whether commercial off-shelf components can be used while minimizing system design cost requirements. They will assist developers and hardware engineers in building the proposed system network and can explain the structure of the system for other members of the team or end users.  

Systems architects recommend strategies to the organization that are necessary for an efficient IT structure. Systems architects typically divide large systems into subsystems that can be easily operated by individual engineers. Systems architects define how much data storage the company needs, designing the entire system layout and interfaces for managing system information.  

Systems architects build and maintain computer software components and hardware systems. They are responsible for the construction and maintenance of network systems and may also be tasked with the installation of networking and computer systems. System architects usually configure the organization's own computer network system to improve the existing structure. System architects are responsible for configuring the components as efficiently as possible and recommending new applications that improve overall operation of the computer system. They are tasked with coordinating operations to ensure that the infrastructure is secure, functional, and scalable.  

The systems architects divide large and complex systems into manageable subsystems that can be operated by individual engineers. To meet certain requirements, systems architects define the software and hardware that make up the system as well as how much data storage and what kind of computing power is needed. These definitions include all components, interactions, and interfaces, including the environment and user, as well as all technologies and resources used in systems development for the design and implementation of the system.     

Systems architects may be required to work long hours to solve problems without interrupting the company's working day. They also respond to users’ questions, provide technical support, and offer solutions for computer system issues. The systems architect must fully understand the technical part of their work as well as possess strong communication skills to explain complex topics to senior management in digestible terms. Systems architects study a variety of subjects, from the basics of computer programming, including programming languages, databases, and data processing, to advanced IT topics. These include data analysis, data science, computer vision, machine learning, and others.