Solutions architect
Solutions architects design technical blueprints to develop new digital products and services for clients, and solve existing IT problems.
- Starter salary£36,000 a year
- Experienced£85,000 a year
- Typical hours37 to 40 a week
What you'll do
As a solutions architect, you could:
- work with clients to understand what they need
- propose potential solutions to meet client requirements
- assess the strengths, weaknesses and costs of different options
- present recommendations to clients
- take part in the planning and design of the preferred solution
- work closely with other professionals in the project team
- manage the switch over to a new or improved computer system
- make sure the upgraded system works with other parts of the client's network both now and into the future
Working environment
You could work at a client's business or in an office.
Skills and knowledge you'll need
You'll need:
- complex problem-solving skills
- the ability to work well with others
- to be flexible and open to change
- maths knowledge
- knowledge of systems analysis and development
- excellent verbal communication skills
- persistence and determination
- the ability to use your judgement and make decisions
- to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications
How to become a solutions architect
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
University
You could do a degree or postgraduate qualification in computing.
Relevant subjects include:
- computer science
- software development
- business information systems
- computing systems engineering
- cloud computing
Choosing a course that includes an internship or industry work placement could give you an advantage when looking for jobs.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
Apprenticeship
You could apply to do a Digital and Technology Solutions Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship.
This takes around 4 years to complete and combines work-based training with academic study.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship
Direct application
You can apply directly for jobs if you have experience in computing, for example software development.
It's also helpful if you have some experience and knowledge of the industry you want to work in, for instance banking, digital communications or retail.
Career path and progression
With experience, you could become a senior or lead solutions architect, then move on to an enterprise architect role, developing overall IT strategy for the business.
You might wish to specialise in a particular area, for example:
- data systems
- software applications
- cloud computing
You could also take up wider responsibilities, such as senior IT project management, or become a consultant.
Career tips
You'll find it useful to have an understanding of service design principles, IT industry standards and agile project management methods .
Guides for this industry
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