About the job
This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Sr. Solution Architect (Pre Sales) based in the United States.
This is a senior, client-facing architecture role focused on shaping secure networking solutions for enterprise customers. You will act as a trusted technical advisor, translating business goals and customer requirements into scalable technology strategies and architectures. The role spans discovery, solution design, technical proposals, proof-of-concepts, and deal execution. You’ll work closely with sales leaders, client managers, technology partners, and delivery teams throughout complex sales cycles. Your expertise will help customers evaluate solutions across SD-WAN, SASE, network security, segmentation, and firewall technologies. The environment is collaborative and innovation-focused, with opportunities to mentor architects and influence new go-to-market services. The role is remote within the U.S., with occasional domestic travel for customer engagements.
Accountabilities
- Lead customer discovery sessions to understand business objectives, technical requirements, challenges, and desired outcomes, translating findings into technology roadmaps and solution architectures.
- Design and develop complex secure networking solutions across areas such as SD-WAN, SASE, network security, segmentation, and firewall technologies.
- Partner with sales, client management, delivery, product, and technology vendors to identify opportunities, shape pipelines, and expand strategic accounts.
- Manage the technical solution lifecycle from initial discovery through internal approvals, including cost and effort estimates, statements of work, assumptions, timelines, and success criteria.
- Review proposals before submission to ensure solutions are technically sound, clearly scoped, deliverable, and commercially viable.
- Evaluate alternative architectures and communicate trade-offs involving cost, performance, scalability, security, and business value.
- Lead proof-of-concept and technology evaluation engagements, demonstrations, and technical presentations to help secure customer commitments.
- Tailor technical presentations and solution narratives for diverse audiences, from engineering teams to senior business and executive stakeholders.
- Contribute recommendations for new go-to-market services and provide expertise on relevant industries, technologies, and emerging trends.
- Provide coaching and mentorship to less experienced Solutions Architects and contribute to the development of architecture standards and best practices.
Requirements
- 6+ years of presales solutions architecture experience or equivalent client-facing technical experience, with advanced expertise in designing and positioning secure networking solutions for enterprise customers.
- Proven experience with technologies such as SD-WAN, SASE, network security, segmentation, and firewalls, as well as enterprise architecture and design principles.
- Strong background in client consulting, opportunity shaping, technical proposal development, solution design, needs assessment, and complex solution selling.
- Experience working with sales teams, client managers, delivery organizations, and technology/channel partners such as Cisco, Palo Alto Networks, Fortinet, or HPE Aruba.
- Demonstrated ability to integrate proposed solutions with broader enterprise architecture, business requirements, industry standards, and established design patterns.
- Experience navigating lengthy sales cycles involving multiple decision-makers and multiple technology or product areas.
- Strong verbal, written, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to both technical and executive audiences.
- Ability to build compelling business cases that connect technical solutions with measurable financial and business value.
- Advanced knowledge of reference architectures and a strong interest in emerging secure networking technologies.
- Curiosity and practical interest in using AI and automation to improve technical workflows and service delivery.
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in computer science, engineering, business, or a related discipline.
- Exposure to enterprise architecture or IT governance frameworks such as TOGAF, ITIL, COBIT, or SAFe is a plus.
- Relevant technology certifications from Cisco, Palo Alto Networks, Fortinet, HPE Aruba, or similar providers are desirable.
- Ability to travel domestically up to approximately 20% of the time.
Benefits
- Salary: Target compensation range of $150,000–$190,000 annually, depending on location, experience, technical skills, and qualifications.
- Incentive compensation: Potential eligibility for additional incentive compensation based on individual and/or organizational performance.
- Work arrangement: Remote position within the United States.
- Healthcare: Medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
- Financial benefits: 401(k) program with company match, plus flexible spending or health savings account options.
- Insurance coverage: Life and AD&D insurance, short-term disability, and long-term disability coverage.
- Time off: Paid time off and additional legally required leave and benefits.
- Well-being: Employee assistance programs and additional voluntary benefits.
- Career development: Opportunities to work with emerging technologies, enterprise customers, global technology partners, and complex transformation initiatives.