Software Architect – Enterprise Systems

Software Architect – Enterprise Systems 

Parallel Systems is seeking a Software Architect to lead the design and development of our cloud-based enterprise layer. This backend platform will serve as the critical interface between our autonomous rail vehicles and external systems including rail traffic control, yard management, and customer transportation management systems. This is a high-impact technical leadership role requiring deep expertise in systems design, distributed backend architectures, and integration of safety-critical infrastructure. 

Responsibilities: 

• Architect and oversee the development of a scalable, fault-tolerant backend system to connect autonomous rail operations with enterprise and control infrastructure. 
• Design clean interfaces and robust data exchange mechanisms with third-party systems (e.g., train control, yard logistics, customer TMS). 
• Lead the selection of technologies, frameworks, and architectural patterns for backend services. 
• Define and enforce system-level architectural standards across teams, ensuring security, performance, and maintainability. 
• Collaborate with engineering, product, and external stakeholders to translate complex requirements into reliable, production-grade systems. 
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to backend engineers; review code and design proposals. 
• Stay current with relevant standards and best practices in enterprise integration, distributed systems, and cloud architectures. 

What Success Looks Like: 

• After 30 Days: You’ve developed a deep understanding of our autonomous rail platform, backend architecture, and integration points. You’ve mapped out key architectural challenges and priorities. 
• After 60 Days: You’ve designed the foundational architecture of the enterprise layer and gained cross-functional alignment. You’ve begun implementation of the integration framework with key external systems. 
• After 90 Days: You've delivered core functionality of the enterprise backend in simulation and test environments, and you’re guiding the roadmap for continued scaling and integration with live deployments. 

Basic Requirements: 

• 8+ years of experience in backend or systems-level software development, including 3+ years in an architecture or technical leadership role. 
• Proven experience designing and scaling backend infrastructure for mission-critical applications. 
• Familiarity with cloud platforms and containerized environments (e.g., AWS, Kubernetes, Docker). 
• Strong communication skills and ability to align technical direction across multidisciplinary teams. 

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Production experience with Rust or a strong desire to architect in Rust. 
• Experience integrating with industrial, transportation, or logistics systems such as SCADA, TMS, or rail control platforms. 
• Background in safety-critical software environments such as autonomy, aerospace, or industrial control. 
• Knowledge of relevant rail systems or standards (e.g., PTC, ERTMS) is a significant plus.