Chief Architect – National Security Systems

Company Overview

By Light Professional IT Services LLC readies warfighters and federal agencies with technology and systems engineered to connect, protect, and prepare individuals and teams for whatever comes next. Headquartered in McLean, VA, By Light supports defense, civilian, and commercial IT customers worldwide. 

Cole Engineering Services (CESI), a By Light company, is recognized as a premier provider of modeling and simulation (M&S) training solutions to the Federal Government and industry. Since 2004, CESI has been at the forefront of developing, maintaining, and integrating simulation-based training, serious gaming, technical services, training and other support in live, virtual, constructive, and gaming (LVCG) domains.  CESI also designs, builds and runs infrastructure, platforms, applications and processes that enable cyber training for the integrated multi-domain force. Our vision is to become a worldwide full spectrum LVCG and cyber training/analysis developer, integrator and services provider.

Position Overview

By Light Professional IT Services and Cole Engineering Services, Inc. (CESI) are seeking a Chief Architect to lead the enterprise-level technical evolution of a high-priority U.S. Space Force program supporting Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) R&D and operations at the Boulder Ground Innovation Facility (BGIF). This position drives long-term architecture strategy and oversees system modernization efforts across a multi-domain environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead enterprise architecture planning across the OPIR TAP Lab, BGIF, and OBAC.
• Document and maintain baseline hardware/software architectures.
• Identify and mitigate architectural risks; chair technical working groups.
• Define 3+ year roadmaps aligned with Government mission needs.
• Recommend technology investments supporting RDT&E, AI/ML, and DevSecOps.

Required Experience/Qualifications

• Master’s degree in engineering, Computer Science, or related field.
• 15+ years of industry experience, including 10+ years in software development, integration, and/or operational support for DoD/national security environments.
• Demonstrated success leading enterprise IT or mission system modernization.

Special Requirements/Security Clearance

• Active TS/SCI clearance

Physical Demands