Solutions Architect

540 is looking for a Solutions Architect to contribute on more than one project concurrently (both within the DoD).  This includes the development of technical designs and strategy, and supports the Pentagon’s implementation efforts to improve visibility through data analytics platform development. Additionally, this includes the support of an Air Force project to improve integration and web-based capabilities for aircraft maintainers and support personnel for various weapons systems that have direct impacts on the warfighter. We are looking for a startup-minded individual to work with and understand client requirements and define appropriate and scalable technical architecture, approach and API design. 

On one project, you will be supporting the implementation of an API-centric data platform that collects data via reporting requirements and policy for Pentagon leadership and Congress. Other than the facilitation of reporting workflows and data security and access, our client wants to design and implement a system that unlocks all collected data for analysis through a variety of micro web apps (powered by reusable APIs) that can be built quickly and maintained / deployed easily. There should also be the ability for discovery and orchestration with other relevant data sources to provide more value to the analyst community… dare we say data science.

On the other project, you will be supporting the architecture, design, development, testing, and deployment of APIs and microservices that facilitate the sharing of maintenance data, financial data, and other data sets across the Air Force.  You will mostly be delivering new / green field integrations using modern cloud services and API management platforms.  Though mostly focused on completing technical analysis, system design, and architecture tasks, an ability to support in other areas of the project to include CloudOps, development, and SRE delivery would be of great benefit.

Location: Arlington, VA, expect onsite requirements 1x per week
Citizenship & Clearance Requirement: per client requirements, must be a US Citizen with an active DoD Secret clearance or higher
Education Requirement: Bachelor’s Degree
540 Internal Thrive Level: Solutions Architect II or III

WHY 540?

540 is a forward-thinking company that the government turns to in order to #GetShitDone. We do more than talk about it, we break down barriers to innovation and build impactful tech. We’re looking for someone with big ideas, who thrives on innovation and is a self-starter. If you love to learn about and work with new technologies, we want to talk to you.

REQUIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

• 3+ years experience architecting scalable cloud-based and/or API-first architectures
• Experience interacting with REST APIs and familiarity with common REST API design principles and structures
• Broad understanding and experience with various front- and back-end frameworks, tools, and technologies (including exposing/consuming data through APIs)
• Understanding and experience with SQL and/or NoSQL databases
• Ability to convert functional/capability needs into technical solutions with defined requirements and documentation for developer implementation
• Proficient in analyzing, streamlining and documenting application and API functionalities to understand integration requirements
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams
• Experience with Agile projects, development, and tools (such as Jira)
• Can take ownership of tasks and drive them to completion independently when needed (i.e. figure out next steps without being told explicitly)
• Ability to learn quickly and “become an expert” on something that you don’t have previous knowledge/experience with

NICE TO HAVE SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

• Proficient in REST API design, documentation, buildout, management, and testing
• Experience with an API Gateway tool, Apigee preferred
• Experience with Microsoft Azure cloud services 
• Understanding of various methods of authentication via APIs (PKI, OAuth, etc) and authorization (LDAP, SAML, etc) 
• Experience with any or all of the following frameworks and technologies common to the project: Java, Spring, JavaScript, Angular/React, MongoDB, PostgreSQL, Elasticsearch, etc.
• Ability to rapidly code proof of concepts to help with analysis of alternatives 
• Understanding of high availability and scalability techniques, as well as ability to identify performance issues at the app, API, and data tiers 
• Experience with securing sensitive data (including security marking standards) 
• Experience deploying applications in DoD or other accredited federal environments that require IA certification and accreditation to deploy

BENEFITS & PERKS

• 100% covered health, dental and vision premium for employees, optional dependent coverage
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• 401k with employer match
• Company Sponsored Life Insurance, Short and Long Term Disability coverage
• Flexible PTO + all Federal holidays off
• Home Office allowance
• Reimbursement for trainings / certifications
• Paid AWS Developer account
• Fully loaded Macbook Pro
• Referral Bonus - good people know good people
• Annual Social Events (540 week, hackathon, holiday party, charity golf tournament, etc.)
• Access to 540’s Washington Capitals tickets

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY (EEO)

540's policy is to provide equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.