Systems Architect

Summary

Join Ardent as a Mid Systems Architect and play a critical role in designing, developing, and maintaining advanced geospatial system architectures for federal government programs. This hybrid position, located in the Washington, DC metropolitan area, offers technical leadership opportunities in systems engineering, integration, and cloud-based geospatial solutions. Collaborate with stakeholders to assess business needs, recommend emerging technologies, and ensure scalable, secure, and compliant systems. Leverage your strong understanding of GIS technologies, federal compliance standards, and enterprise IT environments to support and advance geospatial data infrastructure and applications. Ardent provides a rewarding environment with highly competitive benefits, professional development opportunities, and an exceptional culture that embraces flexibility, innovation, and career growth. Make a difference with us!

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Geospatial Science, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
• Proven experience as a Systems Architect or similar role supporting geospatial systems in government or large enterprise environments
• Strong expertise in systems engineering, architecture design, and GIS technologies, particularly Esri products
• Experience with cloud environments (AWS, Azure, or GovCloud), hybrid cloud architectures, and data storage solutions
• Proficient in database design, management, and configuration, including geodatabases and spatial data repositories
• Knowledge of federal IT security frameworks and compliance standards (e.g., FISMA, Section 508, DHS management directives)
• Familiarity with software development lifecycle (SDLC), DevSecOps, and CI/CD practices for GIS applications
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills
• Ability to work effectively with diverse teams and manage multiple priorities

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain scalable, resilient, and interoperable geospatial system architectures aligned with DHS standards
• Conduct gap analysis and identify technical and functional requirements to meet geospatial business objectives
• Research, evaluate, and recommend emerging geospatial technologies and enterprise solutions
• Lead systems integration and architecture design across cloud (including hybrid) and on-premises environments
• Manage geospatial data infrastructure including geodatabases, metadata, data warehouses, and cloud-based repositories
• Support operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and performance optimization of GIS applications and databases
• Develop, maintain, and execute testing plans to validate system performance and operational effectiveness
• Create and update architectural documentation, SOPs, technical guides, and other related artifacts
• Ensure compliance with federal IT policies, DHS directives, security standards, and accessibility requirements
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to align technical architecture with organizational goals
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers and staff

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting DHS geospatial programs or similar federal initiatives
• Familiarity with DHS Geospatial Information Infrastructure (GII), GeoPlatform, and HIFLD standards
• Hands-on experience with AWS GovCloud or hybrid cloud GIS migrations
• Knowledge of automation tools and scripting for system management and deployment
• Prior experience mentoring or leading technical teams in a government contracting environment
• Security clearance or eligibility for federal clearance

Benefits

• Highly competitive benefits
• Professional development opportunities
• An exceptional culture that embraces flexibility, innovation, collaboration, and career growth