Staff Solutions Architect

Staff Solutions ArchitectStaff Solutions Architect opening in Sioux Falls, SD, with a confidential defense technology company. You'll architect mission-critical ISR capabilities for national security, working directly with government agencies. This role demands deep systems thinking and defense literacy.Role SnapshotCompany Confidential Employer Location Sioux Falls, South Dakota, USA Industry Space Compensation DOE Employment Type Full Time/Direct Hire Remote Status No Remote Total Openings 1 Work Experience 10 yearsOpportunityThe stratosphere is the new frontier in defense, and our client is leading the charge with high-altitude platforms that deliver persistent ISR and communications. As a Staff Solutions Architect, you'll be the technical architect behind high-stakes partnerships, turning visionary concepts into deployed capabilities. This is a chance to shape how the United States maintains awareness and decision advantage in contested environments.In this role, you'll collaborate directly with Department of Defense stakeholders to design end-to-end ISR missions. You'll translate abstract operational needs—like over-the-horizon targeting or persistent maritime surveillance—into precise payload specifications and flight profiles. You'll analyze the competitive landscape, positioning platforms alongside satellites and Group 5 UAS, and lead technical deep-dives with program managers to move projects from pilots to Programs of Record. You'll also develop CONOPS for SIGINT and tactical communications relay, ensuring every mission is doctrinally sound and technically feasible.The ideal candidate brings an engineering degree and 10+ years of experience, with at least 4 years in technical leadership. You understand the full ISR lifecycle—from sensor physics to data exploitation—and you've worked directly with defense agencies, primes, or the IC. You know how the government acquires bleeding-edge tech and can navigate mission sets like border security or air defense. You're a systems thinker who thrives on solving tactical problems under real-world constraints. If you have a background in commercial data sales or Government/Defense ISR integration, you'll have a running start.Our client offers a mission-driven environment where your work directly enhances national security. You'll enjoy a competitive compensation package, a collaborative culture of innovation, and the autonomy to shape technical strategy. Some travel is expected, but the impact is unparalleled. If you're ready to design the future of stratospheric defense, apply today.Non-NegotiablesYou must be a U.S. citizen and able to obtain a security clearanceYou hold a bachelor's degree in engineering, business, or a related technical fieldYou bring 10+ years of professional experience, including at least 4 years in a technical or business leadership roleYou have deep knowledge of the ISR lifecycle, from sensor phenomenology (EO/IR, SAR, SIGINT) to data backhaul and processingYou possess direct experience working with defense agencies, understanding government purchasing cycles and mission sets like border security or air and missile defenseWhat's In It For YouContribute to game-changing national security missions at a company that is reshaping battlefield awarenessWork alongside elite defense partners and government agencies on high-visibility projectsReceive a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package commensurate with experienceEnjoy autonomy to make technical decisions and see your solutions fielded in real-world operationsBe part of a culture that values innovation, agility, and hands-on problem solvingTravel requirements are moderate, allowing a strong work-life balance while still engaging with customersResponsibilitiesCollaborate with DoD and government stakeholders to design ISR missions that integrate high-altitude platforms into existing sensor networks, closing gaps in persistence and coverageTranslate high-level mission requirements into detailed payload specifications, flight profiles, and operational constraintsAnalyze the defense market to position stratospheric platforms against traditional satellites and Group 5 UAS, defining a unique value proposition for contested environmentsLead technical deep-dives with government program managers, providing the engineering rigor required to advance projects from pilot stages to Programs of RecordDevelop Concepts of Operations (CONOPS) for ISR, SIGINT, and tactical communications relay missions, ensuring operational feasibility and mission successPreferred QualificationsBackground in Government or Defense ISR sales or systems integration is highly desirableExperience working with the Intelligence Community, Combatant Commands, or Tier 1 prime contractors will give you a significant advantageStrong knowledge of commercial data sales, especially from a market and strategy perspective, is a plusAn MBA, PMP, or relevant systems engineering certification is a bonusWillingness and ability to travel up to 50% of the time is expected