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Technical architect

Technical architects help plan, design and build IT systems for clients.

Average annual salary

£40,000 to £90,000

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Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role
  • applying directly

University

You'll normally need a degree or postgraduate qualification. Relevant subjects include:

  • computer science or computer engineering
  • information management systems
  • business information systems
  • software development
  • mathematics

Entry requirements:

  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

Entry requirements:

Apprenticeship

You could get into this job through a degree apprenticeship, training as a digital and technology solutions professional.

You could then move on to a digital and technology solution specialist degree apprenticeship. This is equal to a postgraduate degree.

Entry requirements:

  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship

Work

You could start with a company in a job like programming and work your way up through training and promotion.

DirectApplication

You could apply to companies directly if you've got relevant skills and knowledge.

You'll need a broad understanding of available technologies and what they can do for the client. Employers will look for a background in systems development, analysis, programming or testing.

Employers will also want to see strengths in non-technical areas like client management, communication and leadership. This is because they place importance on the ability to communicate the client's requirements to technical teams and to manage resources and demands on time.

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Required Skills:

Digital skills : to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

Skills:
  • knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
  • analytical thinking skills
  • maths knowledge
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • excellent verbal communication skills
  • operations analysis skills
  • persistence and determination
  • to be flexible and open to change
  • thinking and reasoning skills
  • knowledge of engineering science and technology
  • knowledge of English language
  • the ability to read English
  • the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
  • the ability to use your initiative
  • active listening skills
  • excellent written communication skills
  • broadcasting and telecommunications knowledge
  • design skills and knowledge
  • concentration skills
  • the ability to work well with your hands
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What you'll do:

Technical architects help plan, design and build IT systems for clients.

In this job, you will:

  • create a technical strategy to meet the client's requirements
  • break down requirements into manageable pieces of work
  • compare 'off-the-shelf' solutions with building a new IT system
  • assess the risks related to different approaches
  • act as a link between technical teams and project delivery managers
  • explain the structure to product or service designers and developers
  • make sure systems meet quality and security standards
  • work with technical teams to overcome problems at each stage of development
  • keep accurate records of the steps and decisions you've made
  • advise senior managers on how to plan for their future IT needs

Location : You could work in an office, at a client's business or remotely.

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Salary:

Starter : £40,000
Experienced : £90,000

These figures are a guide

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Working hours:

37 - 39 hours a week

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends away from home

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Career Path:

With experience, you could:

  • become a senior technical architect
  • specialise in a particular field, like finance or IT security
  • move into broader IT project management roles
  • become a strategy business planner or consultant

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