BAE Systems
Solution Design Authority - US Programmes

How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
Job Title: Lead Solution Architect – US Programmes
Location
Warton/Samlesbury (minimum 3 days per week onsite), Hybrid
We offer a range of hybrid and flexible working arrangements – please speak to your recruiter about the options for this particular role.
Salary
£75,000+ Dependent on experience
Who we are:
Join BAE Systems and you’ll be part of something bigger. As a valued member of our global colleague network, you’ll bring your unique skills and perspectives to help pioneer progress and protect what matters most. You’ll be trusted to play your part in delivering advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions, shaping a safer future for all of us. From the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of space, there’s no limit to where a career at BAE Systems could take you.
What you will be doing:
As a Lead Solution Architect, you will provide specialist expertise across a broad range of information technology disciplines, supporting the delivery of innovative digital solutions that enable the organisation to achieve its strategic and operational objectives.
You will work closely with business leaders, customers, suppliers, and technical specialists to develop and implement digital strategies, improve business processes, manage innovation initiatives, and ensure effective governance across information management and technology functions.
Core duties:
- Lead the delivery and governance of digital and technology projects across their lifecycle
- Assess system impacts, risks, and opportunities, recommending effective solutions and improvements
- Drive innovation initiatives and promote continuous improvement across the organisation
- Monitor emerging technologies and develop technology roadmaps to support business objectives
- Manage business-critical information systems and ensure effective use of tools, standards, and processes
- Lead user experience and accessibility reviews, ensuring solutions meet business and user needs
- Provide specialist advice on digital transformation, information management, and technology strategy while leading cross-functional teams and stakeholders
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
See breakdownIt searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
Essential Skills:
- Relevant IT, Engineering, Computer Science, Business degree, or equivalent practical experience
- Significant experience in IT, digital, or information management, with strong understanding of how technology supports business objectives, and experience in complex change environments (ideally defence or regulated sectors), including exposure to IT/architecture practices and frameworks such as TOGAF.
- Strong analytical skills with experience gathering requirements, assessing risks, and developing practical solutions that balance business and technical needs
- Good knowledge of emerging technologies, digital trends, information management, governance, security, and best practice frameworks
The Architecture Practice Team:
As a Lead Solution Architect, you will be working as part of the Architecture Practice within the Air Sector in a senior role to deliver IT systems that contribute to growth within BAE Systems. This team is the home of future capability development in the Air sector working on cutting-edge platforms, products and technologies whilst engaging across the Air and wider BAE Systems Enterprise. The US Programmes business within the Air Sector has been the principal partner to Lockheed Martin on the F-35 programme since its inception and is contracted for development, production and sustainment to drive readiness, availability and affordability across the global F-35 fleet. Our teams in the UK and US also provide support services to the US Navy and Marine Corps through US AV-8B and T-45 Goshawk programs.


Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
A place where everyone can thrive:
We’re committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified people and encourage discussion of reasonable adjustments where needed.
Please be aware that many roles at BAE Systems are subject to security and export control restrictions. Applicants must meet Baseline Personnel Security Standard, and many roles require higher levels of National Security Vetting, including 5–10 years continuous UK residency depending on the role.
Why BAE Systems?
Here you’ll build a career with purpose and limitless possibilities. Lifelong learning, meaningful work, and a supportive culture enable you to grow with confidence. You’ll be recognised for your contribution and supported with rewards that matter most to you.
Closing Date:
16th August 2026
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications. If you are interested, please apply as early as possible.
#LI-KP1 #hybrid
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London
Skills
Location