Chief Architect -Zero Trust Communication - Rapid Strategy

Rapid Strategy, an award-winning African-American owned small business, is seeking a full-time Chief Architect for Zero Trust Communication. We specialize in providing cybersecurity services to clients across both the private and public sectors. Based in Charlotte, NC, we support our clients throughout North Carolina and the DMV area. Learn more about us at www.RapidStrategy.io.

This position is 100% on-site in Columbia MD. The successful candidate must complete a federally mandated criminal history background check within 30 days of hire.

We are looking for a highly experienced and visionary Chief Architect to lead the architectural strategy for one of our DoD programs. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of architectural principles, a proven track record of successful project delivery, and the ability to lead and inspire a team of engineers. The Chief Architect will be responsible for defining the architectural vision, ensuring alignment with business goals, and driving the implementation of innovative solutions. The Chief Architect will work closely with senior leadership within DoD, stakeholders, and cross-functional teams to ensure that our architectural practices are robust, scalable, and aligned with industry best practices. The role will involve evaluating and selecting appropriate technologies, designing high-level frameworks, and providing technical guidance and hands-on keyboard skills to ensure the successful delivery of projects. This position is also responsible for maintaining a strong focus on quality, performance, and security, while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. The successful candidate will possess excellent communication and leadership skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences. The ideal candidate is passionate about systems engineering and architecture, security and Zero Trust and have a desire to make a significant impact on this program.  Minimum of secret clearance.  

Responsibilities:

• Define and communicate the architectural platform vision and strategy.
•  Lead and mentor a team of engineers.
•  Ensure alignment of architectural practices with business goals and ensure alignment and bridge any gaps between the team’s vertical segments. 
•  Evaluate and select appropriate technologies and frameworks; specific experience with Zero Trust is essential.
•  Design high-level architectural frameworks and solutions.
•  Provide technical guidance and oversight for projects.
•  Collaborate with and brief senior leadership and stakeholders.
•  Ensure architectural practices are robust, scalable, and secure.
•  Drive the implementation of innovative solutions.
•  Maintain a focus on quality, performance, and security.
•  Foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
•  Conduct architectural reviews and assessments.
•  Develop and maintain architectural documentation.
•  Stay current with industry trends and best practices.
•  Facilitate communication between technical and non-technical teams.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's and/or Master's degree (preferred) in Computer Science, Cybersecurity,  Engineering, or related field.
•  10+ years of experience in architecture and engineering roles.
•  Proven track record of successful project delivery.
•  Strong understanding of architectural principles and best practices.
•  Experience with a variety of zero trust technologies and frameworks including Ping, Trend Micro, Virtru and Delinea.
•  Excellent communication and leadership skills.
•  Ability to articulate complex technical concepts.
•  Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
•  Experience with cloud computing and distributed systems.
•  Knowledge of security and compliance standards.
•  Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
•  Strong focus on quality, performance, and security.
•  Experience with agile and iterative development methodologies.
•  Ability to stay current with industry trends and advancements.
•  Strong organizational and time management skills.

Please note that this position requires applicants to be U.S. citizens and based in the United States. Only individuals who meet these criteria will be considered for employment. Applicants must have an ACTIVE SECRET CLEARANCE.