System Architect Job Description Example

System Architect Job Description Example

What Does a System Architect Do?

System architects are IT professionals who design and develop the structure of computerized systems to meet the needs and expectations of the end user.

The system architect job description entails defining system components according to suitable cost-benefit specification, viable technology, and user domain of experience.

System architects usually partition large computer systems into subsystems which can be easily handled by individual engineers.

They design the overall system layout and interface for the management of system information.

They are also responsible for the integration of subsystems and system components.

As part of their responsibilities, system architects build and maintain computer software and hardware systems; they also may be responsible for the installation of computer and networking systems.

Usually, system architects configure and operate an organization’s network system to improve on an existing structure.

They divide computer systems into subsystems according to user requirements to ensure minimal communication between system partitions.

They also ensure consistent, correct and operationally defined requirements.

System architects liaise with design and implementation engineers to develop and implement design concepts which are in accordance with fundamental user requirements.

They conduct usability tests to verify user experience and ensure all high level requirements are met.

They also develop prototypes and user guides to keep end users up-to-date on system functions.

In fulfilling their role, system architects prepare cost estimates for a system design; they outline the components required in building a new computerized system.

They maintain proper record of design operations and step decisions taken. They also update chief architects on the progress of a system design and integration.

As part of their duties, system architects conduct analysis to determine ways to utilize commercial off-the-shelf components in minimizing the cost requirements of a system design.

They explain the structure of a system and assist developers and hardware engineers in building a proposed system or network.

Their work description also entails conducting tests to ensure a computer system meets set security and quality standards.

System architects proffer recommendations to organizations on strategies necessary for an efficient IT structure.

They also ensure architectural products are properly maintained.

The system architect job requires a Bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer engineering, information management systems, or in other related disciplines.

Qualities needed to succeed on the job include programming, problem-solving, and planning skills.

System Architect Job Description Example/Template

The job description example shown below gives the major duties, tasks, and responsibilities that define the work of system architects in most firms:

• Divide large computer systems into partition to allow for easy management by individual engineers
• Interface with implementation and design engineers to handle problems with design concepts or implementation
• Develop sketches, user guides and models to keep end users and system engineers up-to-date on system structure
• Allocate all foreseeable requirements into partitions to ensure minimal communication between subsystems
• Conduct surveys to obtain information regarding client needs and user domain experience
• Plan the structure of a system considering user requirements and cost-benefit scale
• Present system layout to clients for confirmation before design and implementation
• Liaise with developers and hardware engineers to develop an effective system structure
• Conduct acceptance tests to verify if a system is in accordance with fundamental user requirements
• Modify new or already existing system structure to improve efficiency as well as meet client needs
• Maintain accurate records of design operations and steps taken during the structuring of a system
• Update project managers and chief architects on the progress of a design
• Conduct research to determine the effectiveness of off-the-shelf products in building a new system
• Proffer recommendations to clients on ways to ensure an efficient information technology structure
• Maintain architectural products and systems to ensure they remain efficient.

System Architect Resume Preparation

Are you writing a resume for the job of system architect? If so, then the listed duties in the sample job description above can be useful in completing the work experience section of your resume.

The job experience section of the resume provides an opportunity to show employers the functions of the position that you have earlier carried out.

This will assure them that you will be able to effectively perform the responsibilities of the role even without supervision, since you have shown that you have done it before.

Therefore, if you have worked previously as a system architect, you can easily create the work experience part of your resume by using the above highlighted duties and responsibilities of the position, with modification where necessary.

Requirements-Skills, Abilities, and Knowledge – for System Architect Job

If you are aspiring to work as a system architect, here are the major requirements you will need to have to be able to access the job and succeed in the career:

• Education and Training: To become a system architect, you require a Bachelor’s degree in information management systems, computer science, computer engineering, or in a related discipline. About 2-7 years of experience in IT administration is also required for the system architect position. Professional certifications from recognized IT institutions serves to increase job prospects
• Programming Skills: System architects are well versed in designing and developing computer and networking systems
• Problem-solving Skills: System architects are adept at developing architectural systems which meet the needs/requirements of an organization or client
• Planning Skills: System architects are skilled in organizing and planning architectural structures to meet cost-benefit specifications.

System Architect Skills for Resume

Again, if you are preparing a resume for the system architect job, the above mentioned qualities can help in making an effective skills section.

By having and stating the above skills and qualities, which employers usually require for the system architect position, in your resume, you will be telling employers that you have what it takes to succeed as a system architect, and this will increase the strength of your resume to get you an interview.

Conclusion

This post provides the major duties and responsibilities of system architects, which will help you to know more about what they do and to prepare for the career if this is a job you are interested in.

The sample job description also provided in this post can be applied by employers in making a suitable work description for use in hiring new system architects and assigning tasks to them.

Did you find this post useful in learning about what system architects do and the job description usually assigned to them? Please share your thought about this article in the comment box below.