Become a Principal IT Solutions Architect at the Small Business Administration

The Small Business Administration (SBA) is at the forefront of driving economic growth and supporting the backbone of the American economy. We are currently seeking a highly skilled Principal IT Solutions Architect to join our Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO). This is a rare opportunity to influence the technical trajectory of a federal agency, leading the charge on cloud-native modernization and enterprise-wide infrastructure strategies.

Job Responsibilities

As the Principal IT Solutions Architect, you will serve as the senior technical authority for the SBA. Your primary duties include:

Strategic Vision: Providing expert guidance to agency leadership on complex IT integration.
Architecture Design: Defining and maintaining enterprise reference architectures, reusable design patterns, and ADRs.
Technology Roadmap: Building cost-benefit models and TCO frameworks for large-scale IT investments.
Modernization: Leading cloud-native strategies, including containerization, microservices, and DevSecOps.
Innovation: Researching emerging threats, such as adversarial AI, and implementing robust security frameworks.

Requirements

To be eligible for the GS-15 level, you must demonstrate:

One year of specialized experience at the GS-14 level (or equivalent in the private sector).
Direct experience with AWS/Azure, API management, and predictive analytics.
Strong skills in defining architecture standards and implementing technology frameworks.
U.S. citizenship and the ability to pass a rigorous background investigation.

Feature	Details
Job Series	2210 IT Management
Grade	GS-15
Location	Washington, D.C.
Salary	$169,297 – $197,200
Clearance	High Risk (HR)

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive compensation package aligned with the GS-15 pay scale, reflecting the high-level expertise and leadership required for this role. Salary ranges reflect base pay plus locality adjustments applicable to the D.C. metropolitan area.

Benefits

Employees of the SBA enjoy a comprehensive suite of benefits including federal health insurance programs, a robust retirement plan (Thrift Savings Plan), life insurance, and generous annual/sick leave accruals.

Application Tips

Be Detailed: Ensure your resume explicitly connects your experience to the specialized requirements listed.
Assessment Readiness: Prepare for the USA Hire assessment by setting aside time to focus on competencies like problem-solving and technical awareness.
Verify Documents: Do not assume a document uploaded to your general profile is attached to this application; verify every document is linked to the specific job announcement.

If you are ready to apply your architectural expertise to make a measurable difference in the lives of American business owners, the SBA encourages you to apply. This role offers the perfect blend of technical challenge and public service.

Why This It Specialist (Principal It Solutions Architect) Job Matters

Shape the future of federal IT infrastructure at the Small Business Administration as our Lead Solutions Architect.

It Specialist (Principal It Solutions Architect) Job Overview

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is seeking a visionary Principal IT Solutions Architect to join the Office of the Chief Information Officer. In this mission-critical role, you will lead the cloud and infrastructure modernization efforts, serving as the senior authority for enterprise design and technology strategy to support the nation's small business community.

Requirements for It Specialist (Principal It Solutions Architect)

One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-14 grade level.
Expertise in providing strategic architecture advice for complex IT programs.
Proven experience defining enterprise reference architectures and architectural decision records.
Proficiency with modern cloud and engineering practices (AWS, Azure, containers, microservices, APIs, DevSecOps).
U.S. Citizenship.
Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959.
Successful completion of a background investigation.
Must complete required USA Hire online assessments.

Preferred Qualifications for It Specialist (Principal It Solutions Architect)

Experience with Federal Enterprise Architecture frameworks.
Deep understanding of Cloud Adoption Frameworks (AWS/Azure).
Background in Model-Based Systems Engineering.
Experience with predictive analytics and large-scale data platforms.
Strong leadership skills in managing cross-agency design collaborations.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal Salary
✓Comprehensive Health Insurance
✓Retirement Savings Plan (TSP)
✓Paid Time Off (Annual and Sick Leave)
✓Flexible Work Arrangements (Telework opportunities)
✓Professional Development Programs
✓Meaningful Public Service Impact

💡 How to Apply It Specialist (Principal It Solutions Architect) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for It Specialist (Principal It Solutions Architect) Job

Submit your resume and federal application via USAJOBS.
Complete the mandatory online questionnaire.
Undergo the USA Hire Competency Based Assessment (if prompted).
Ensure all supporting documentation (transcripts, veteran status proof) is attached.
Finalize and submit your application before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Limit your resume to two pages and ensure it clearly addresses the specialized experience requirements.
Avoid using photographs in your resume.
Double-check that all uploaded documents are visible and correctly attached to the specific application record.
Allocate at least three hours for the USA Hire assessment if invited.
Be specific about your roles and duties—the agency will not make assumptions about your experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary range for this position?

The annual salary for this position is between $169,297 and $197,200, depending on experience and qualifications.

Is this a remote role?

The position is based in Washington, D.C., though some telework may be available in accordance with agency policy and collective bargaining agreements.

What happens if I don't complete the USA Hire assessment?

Completion of the assessment is mandatory. Failure to complete it within the designated timeframe will result in your application being disqualified.

What is the probation period?

*A: New hires are subject to a 1-year probationary period or 2-year trial period to evaluate performance and conduct.*

Is a security clearance required?

*A: This role is designated as High Risk (HR), requiring successful completion of a comprehensive background investigation.*

Job from Small Business Administration

The SBA has served American entrepreneurs for over 70 years, providing the capital, guidance, and disaster relief necessary to help businesses thrive. By joining our team, you are not just taking an IT position; you are contributing to a legacy of economic empowerment and national resilience.