Global Engineering Software Architect Principal

General Dynamics Land Systems
401(k)
United States, Michigan, Sterling Heights
38500 Mound Road (Show on map)
Mar 03, 2026
Role Description The Global Engineering Software Architect Principal is responsible for developing a comprehensive software system architecture strategy to maximize commonality across GDLS platforms and Mission Equipment Products. This role requires strategic vision and strong communication skills to align technical solutions with business objectives while being aware of customer driven initiatives such as: MOSA, FACE, GVA, etc. The Global Engineering Software Architect must have expertise in software and cybersecurity frameworks, design patterns, data architecture, and model-based representations (SysML/UML). Key areas of focus include modularity, extensibility, software reliability, software safety, data distribution, interoperability, security, and integration throughout the software development lifecycle. The architect will mentor a geographically dispersed team and coordinate with Chief Engineers, Product Managers, and Program Managers to align programs with GDLS's strategic vision. Company Information: General Dynamics is a successful Fortune 100, global aerospace and defense company, with over 90,000 employees world-wide. General Dynamics Land Systems, a business unit of General Dynamics, has a strong foundation of delivering core engineering and manufacturing capabilities to our clients for military vehicles. Our team is focused on continuous process and productivity improvements that reduce product costs, while increasing troop safety and effectiveness. Land Systems continues to work with the US Armed Forces and its Allies to ensure these vehicles remain survivable, relevant, flexible, affordable and capable of addressing a dynamic threat environment. What We Offer: If you are just starting your career or are an experience professional, we offer a Total Rewards package that is Impactful and built for you. Healthcare including medical, dental, vision, HSA and Flex Spending Competitive base pay, incentive pay that rewards individual and team performance, and comprehensive benefits. 401k Match (6%) Educational assistance 9-80 Work Schedule (The 9/80 schedule allows employees who work a nine-hour day Monday through Thursday to take every other Friday off.) On-going learning opportunities within a diverse, inclusive and rewarding work environment Onsite Cafeteria, remodeled and updated fitness center, and outdoor fitness track Responsibilities *Parts* Develop and Govern Global Software Architecture Strategy: Chair the Global Software Architecture Strategy Work Group to ensure alignment across engineering disciplines. Define and implement guidelines for agile development, requirement quality, and design verification approaches. Establish criteria to measure and enforce architecture consistency and quality. Maintain templates for Software Architecture Design Documents, Management Plans, and tools to track and manage complexity and quality. Promote Open Standards and Tools: Develop strategies leveraging open standards and tools (e.g., DDS, containerization, virtualization, static/dynamic analysis, and automated testing). Promote design patterns for efficient, reusable, and maintainable software solutions. Provide technical expertise for Root Cause and Corrective Action initiatives for complex software issues. Develop and Govern the common shared software repository (GitLab) to allow re-use of common code (libraries, infrastructure and capabilities) for use across programs. *Mentorship and Knowledge Management* Establish Enterprise Standards and Best Practices Provide technical leadership to ensure system architecture integrity, offering feedback during design and milestone reviews. Develop and maintain enterprise-wide standards, roadmaps, and best practices for software architecture. Drive continuous improvement and knowledge sharing via platforms like KMS and GEARS. Facilitate Collaboration Share expertise on software architecture, components, and design processes to support global programs and business objectives. Foster cross-functional collaboration and provide technical consultation to integrate enterprise-wide strategies into system designs. Research and Innovation Explore and evaluate emerging technologies, tools, and techniques to keep GDLS at the forefront of industry advancements. *Process and Tools* Develop and Govern the Global Software Architecture Strategy: Establish guidelines for agile development, requirement quality, and design verification approaches. Define criteria to measure and enforce architecture consistency, scalability, and quality. Maintain templates and tools for Software Architecture Design Documents, Management Plans, and complexity tracking. Standardize Global Design Tools: Define and standardize tools for software architecture design (e.g., SysML, Cameo), including simulation and modeling tools. Promote UML and SysML for clear, consistent, and detailed architecture models. Align Technical Strategies with Long-Term Goals: Define and implement technical strategies aligned with long-term program objectives and evolving customer needs. Ensure architectures are scalable, secure, reliable, and adaptable to future requirements. Govern and Improve Software Design Processes: Lead governance and continuous improvement of software design processes, integrating industry best practices. Drive the application of UML and SysML modeling techniques to enhance design quality and efficiency. Conduct Feasibility and Risk Assessments: Perform feasibility studies, risk assessments, and cost-benefit analyses to prioritize architectural initiatives. Stay Informed on Emerging Technologies: Continuously research and assess emerging technologies for their potential impact on GDLS's competitiveness and innovation. Bonus Requirements: This position will require eligibility to obtain a US security clearance. (Non-US Citizens may not be eligible to obtain a security clearance) Experience working with or in defense industry or federal environment a bonus Must be able to work evening and/or weekend overtime as needed Able to travel up to 10% if needed GDLS considers factors such as, scope/responsibilities of the position, candidate experience, education/training background, in addition to local market comparable and business considerations when extending an offer.