Solutions Architect

Solutions ArchitectFounded in 2001 on the belief that success begins with quality, Qwaltec is a certified Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) headquartered in Tempe, Arizona. We are a team of systems engineers, technical training consultants, program managers, and mission operations experts with deep experience supporting the DoD, NASA, United States Space Force, and commercial aerospace customers. From ground system operations and mission control to technical training and software engineering, Qwaltec brings space within reach, and we are growing.Qwaltec is seeking a Solutions Architect to lead the design and evolution of technical solutions for spacecraft Mission Operations Centers (MOCs), satellite ground systems, and antenna networks. This is a high-visibility role at the intersection of engineering, operations, and business growth: you will architect solutions for current and prospective customers, working closely with Qwaltec's customer-facing and business development teams to shape offerings, respond to solicitations, and win new mission work.The ideal candidate brings broad experience across the mission lifecycle, including experience as an operator on console, an engineer designing ground systems, a technical lead responsible for architecture integrity, and a contributor to capture and proposal efforts. You understand how MOCs, ground stations, and antenna networks come together to fly spacecraft across orbital regimes and program risk postures, from Class A missions to prototype R&D. Experience with USSF, NASA, and/or NOAA architectures is highly desirable.This position may be performed remotely within the United States; however, preference will be given to candidates based in or willing to relocate to Phoenix/Tempe, AZ area. Periodic travel to Qwaltec's Tempe headquarters, customer sites, and industry events is expected.Key Responsibilities:Architect end-to-end solutions for spacecraft Mission Operations Centers, command and control (C2) ground systems, and antenna/ground station networks for government and commercial customersTranslate customer mission operations and ground system requirements into solution architectures that effectively leverage the OrbitCmd powered by Leanspace software platform, products, and integration capabilities.Serve as the senior technical voice in customer engagements by leading architecture discussions, technical exchanges, design reviews, and briefings with senior government and industry stakeholdersPartner with business development and capture teams to qualify opportunities, shape win themes, and develop technical strategies for new and existing customersAuthor and review key technical volumes, white papers, capabilities briefs, and architecture artifacts in support of proposals and solicitation responsesDevelop reference architectures and system designs using industry and DoD frameworks (e.g., DODAF, MOSA) and modern development practices (Agile/DevOps)Evaluate and integrate emerging technologies, including AI/ML-enabled tools and automation, into mission operations and ground system solutionsGuide trade studies, requirements definition, interface analyses, and technical risk assessments for new missions and system upgradesCollaborate with Qwaltec program managers, engineers, and mission operators to ensure proposed solutions are executable, affordable, and aligned with company capabilitiesMentor engineering staff and help mature Qwaltec's technical baseline, architecture standards, and solution development processesRepresent Qwaltec at industry days, conferences, and networking events (e.g., USSF events, AFCEA, Space Symposium, Ground System Architectures Workshop)Requirements:15+ years of experience in defense and/or civil space programs spanning mission operations, ground systems engineering, and/or satellite command and controlDemonstrated experience architecting or leading the design of Mission Operations Centers, satellite ground systems, and/or antenna network solutionsFull lifecycle perspective across spacecraft console operations, ground system design, integration, test, and on-orbit supportExperience supporting business development, capture, or proposal efforts, including authoring technical content for competitive solicitationsWorking knowledge of architecture frameworks and methodologies such as DODAF and MOSA, and familiarity with Agile/DevOps development environmentsStrong verbal and written communication skills; proven ability to engage credibly with senior government customers, acquisition professionals, and technical teamsFamiliarity with AI/ML concepts and AI-enabled tools and workflows as applied to mission operations, engineering, and business developmentU.S. Citizenship required; must be eligible to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance (candidates must be clearable)Willingness to travel periodically to customer sites, industry events, and Qwaltec's Tempe, AZ headquartersCompensation and Benefits:Salary commensurate with experience, location, and clearance statusCompetitive benefits packageProfessional development support and training budgetOpportunity to shape the technical direction of a mission-driven, women-owned small business at the forefront of space operationsWhy Qwaltec?Qwaltec is more than a contractor. We are a team dedicated to mission success on and off the planet. Our work spans NASA, USSF, and commercial constellations. As our Solutions Architect, you will be the technical bridge between what our customers need and what Qwaltec delivers, with direct exposure to leadership, real influence over our growth strategy, and the chance to see your architectures implemented.Qwaltec is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate in hiring or any employment decision based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, marital status, ancestry, disability, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, or other applicable legally protected characteristic.