Senior Architect

Introduction**

At IBM, work is more than a job - it's a calling: To build. To design. To code. To consult. To think along with clients and sell. To make markets. To invent. To collaborate. Not just to do something better, but to attempt things you've never thought possible. Are you ready to lead in this new era of technology and solve some of the world's most challenging problems? If so, lets talk.

IBM has a once in a generation opportunity to staff the visionary technical leader to shape the future of air traffic control (ATC) in the U.S. We are seeking a highly experienced and accomplished IBMer to serve as the Chief Systems Engineer for the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) brand new ATC system. The ideal candidate will possess an extensive background in architecting and managing large-scale complex projects, with a proven track record in the design and integration of System of Systems. It is preferred they have some knowledge of avionic systems, radar, telecommunication, and other hardware components which are all critical to the architecture of the ATC system.

SE&I Chief Systems Engineer (CSE) Role:

The Chief Systems Engineer (CSE) is the senior technical authority for the BNATCS program, responsible for establishing and maintaining the technical vision, strategy, and integrity of the entire system. The CSE ensures that all engineering activities are aligned with program objectives, FAA requirements, and industry best practices, and that the system delivered is safe, effective, and sustainable.

**Your role and responsibilities**

Technical Leadership & Vision

* Set and communicate the technical vision and strategy for BNATCS.

* Serve as the ultimate technical decision-maker and arbiter for all system engineering and integration issues.

* Ensure technical alignment across all SE&I groups, teams, and external

* stakeholders.

Architecture & Integration Oversight

* Approve and maintain the BNATCS reference architecture and integration strategy.

* Ensure architectural integrity, interoperability, and scalability of all system components.

* Oversee major technical trade studies, innovation initiatives, and technology adoption.

Requirements Management

* Ensure all system requirements are properly captured, allocated, traced, and verified.

* Resolve requirements conflicts and ensure requirements flow down to all subsystems and vendors.

Technical Reviews & Governance

* Chair or oversee major technical reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR, etc.).

* Lead or participate in technical boards, such as the Change Control Board (CCB) and Risk Review Board.

* Approve key technical baselines and changes.

Risk, Issue, and Opportunity Management

* Oversee identification, assessment, and mitigation of technical risks and issues.

* Champion proactive risk management and continuous improvement.

Stakeholder Engagement

* Serve as the primary technical interface to the FAA, PMO, Delivery Office, LNSIO, and external partners.

* Represent the program in technical discussions with government agencies, industry representatives, and regulatory bodies.

Mentorship & Team Development

* Mentor and develop SE&I technical staff and emerging leaders.

* Foster a culture of technical excellence, innovation, and collaboration.

Compliance & Quality

* Ensure compliance with FAA, federal, and industry standards and regulations.

* Oversee technical quality assurance for all SE&I deliverables.

Typical Activities:

* Approving and reviewing system architecture and design artifacts.

* Making final decisions on technical disputes or escalations.

* Leading or participating in technical working groups and boards.

* Reviewing and approving major CDRLs and technical deliverables.

* Engaging with FAA technical leadership and external stakeholders.

* Monitoring technical performance metrics and reporting to program leadership.

* Overseeing the integration of legacy and new systems into the BNATCS architecture.

Reporting Relationships:

Reports to: Program Manager or Integrator Executive.

Direct Reports:

Deputy Chief Systems Engineer; SE&I Group Leads (Management, Integration & Architecture, VV&T, Configuration/Change/Risk, Specialty Engineering, LNSIO).

Key Interfaces: FAA technical leadership, PMO, Delivery Office, LNSIO, external vendors/partners.

**Required technical and professional expertise**

10 years of Experienced in Solution Architecture with a demonstrated history of developing and deploying critical IT infrastructure to the Transportation sector of the government.

10 years Experience with: Systems Architecture, Systems Engineering, Software Development, Testing, and Engineering Management.

IBM is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, caste, genetics, pregnancy, disability, neurodivergence, age, veteran status, or other characteristics. IBM is also committed to compliance with all fair employment practices regarding citizenship and immigration status.