Systems Architectural Subject Matter Expert (SME)

Tyto Athene is seeking a highly experienced Architectural Subject Matter Expert (SME) to provide the technical vision and strategic leadership for the DHA E-Commerce System (ECS). The Architectural SME will be responsible for defining, guiding, and governing the overall systems engineering, application architecture, and data architecture for the evolution of the ECS applications, databases, and infrastructure. This role functions as the central hub for all technical planning, ensuring that all development, modernization, and sustainment efforts are cohesive, compliant, and aligned with long-term strategic goals. The ideal candidate will translate stakeholder needs and government mandates into a clear architectural framework that directs the entire engineering lifecycle.

Responsibilities

• Architectural Vision and Strategy
• Define and guide the comprehensive engineering and data architecture vision for the evolution of the DHA ECS.
• Develop and maintain a strategic software roadmap to track software versions, manage lifecycles, and mitigate costs associated with extended support.
• Architecture and Design
• Prepare, maintain, and document the end-to-end architecture for all applications, databases, and infrastructure components of the DHA ECS.
• Create and own the core design framework that governs all sustainment, enhancement, and modernization projects.
• Technical Governance and Quality Assurance
• Develop, maintain, and enforce a set of technical standards for all engineering activities.
• Ensure that proper system engineering methods (in accordance with IEEE 1220-2005) are used throughout the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC).
• Manage the application and compliance of the SDLC process (IEEE 1074).
• Guarantee that the technical staff produces high-quality, complete, and operationally defined system requirements.
• Performance, Security, and Compliance
• Identify, recommend, and assess Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to monitor the usage, security, and performance of the ECS.
• Ensure all architectural designs and development activities are fully compliant with federal and DoD standards, including
• Security Controls NIST SP 800-53/53A
• Continuous Monitoring NIST SP 800-137
• Accessibility Section 508 and WCAG 2.1
• Networking IPv6 standards (RFC 2460)
• Stakeholder Collaboration and Documentation
• Coordinate directly with DHA ECS users, government sponsors, and other stakeholders to define and document architectural requirements.
• Ensure all engineering and data architecture documentation is kept current, complete, and readily accessible.
  

Required

• A minimum of 10 years of proven experience serving as an Enterprise Architect, Data Architect, or Systems Engineer/Architect on large-scale government or enterprise systems, including
• A minimum of 10 years of experience with OS systems and application software architecture.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience with data architecture and data warehouse environments.
• Demonstrated ability to create and maintain comprehensive architecture documentation, including system designs, data models, and strategic roadmaps.
• Deep expertise in establishing and governing a Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC) based on industry standards such as IEEE 1074.
• Strong knowledge of systems engineering processes in accordance with IEEE 1220-2005.
• Expert-level understanding of federal IT security and compliance mandates, including NIST SP 800-53, NIST SP 800-137, and the Risk Management Framework (RMF).
• Familiarity with accessibility standards (Section 508, WCAG 2.1) and network protocol standards (IPv6).
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear requirements.
• Experience in defining and monitoring system performance using KPIs and other metrics.
• Education Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Information Systems, Data Science, or Software Engineering.
• Experience working with Cloud Computing environments (e.g., AWS GovCloud) is highly preferred.
  
  

Clearance

• Public Trust/T3
  
  
  

Location

• Aurora, CO (On-site)
  
  
  

Compensation

• Compensation is unique to each candidate and relative to the skills and experience they bring to the position. The salary range for this position is typically between $140,000-$172,000. This does not guarantee a specific salary as compensation is based upon multiple factors such as education, experience, certifications, and other requirements, and may fall outside of the above-stated range.
  
  
  

Benefits

• Highlights of our benefits include Health/Dental/Vision, 401(k) match, Paid Time Off, STD/LTD/Life Insurance, Referral Bonuses, professional development reimbursement, and parental leave.
  
  
  

Tyto Athene is a trusted leader in IT services and solutions, delivering mission-focused digital transformation that drives measurable success. Our expertise spans four core technology domains—Network Modernization, Hybrid Cloud, Cybersecurity, and Enterprise IT—empowering our clients with cutting-edge solutions tailored to their evolving needs. With over 50 years of experience, Tyto Athene proudly support Defense, Intelligence, Space, National Security, Civilian, Health, and Public Safety clients across the United States and worldwide.

At Tyto Athene, we believe that success starts with our people. We foster a collaborative, innovative, and mission-driven environment where every team member plays a critical role in shaping the future of technology. Are you ready to join #TeamTyto?

Tyto Athene, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, [sexual orientation, gender identity,] national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any characteristic protected by applicable law.