Solution Architect - Data Centric Security
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We are seeking a Solution Architect with experience in designing and integrating next generation firewall, guard and cross domain solutions compliant with Australian Government Information Security Manual (ISM), organisation policy and security controls. You will be part of a team whose focus will be in designing and overseeing the implementation of secure and interoperable information exchange solutions utilising network gateway and guard capabilities to enable federated mission networking (FMN) within a multi-domain environment. This critical role involves translating complex operational and business requirements into a robust technical vision, and ensuring the solution aligns with NATO standards (STANAG compliance) and data-centric security principles. You will work across multiple technical teams, client stakeholders, and client partner organisations, ensuring the delivered solution enables network and data centric interoperability between information sharing partners.
Key Responsibilities
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Lead the analysis, design, and development of the overall architecture vision for [next generation firewall / guard solutions], from inception through execution.
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Ensure all architectural designs and implemented systems adhere to NATO standardisation Agreements (STANAGs) and data centric security policies.
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Implement a data-centric security model to protect data at rest and in transit, incorporating mechanisms for data classification, access control, and encryption to manage secure information sharing across different information security domains.
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Design and configure guard solutions utilising technologies such as Isode M-Guard for secure, bi-directional or unidirectional data transfer between different security domains.
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Integrate and manage next-generation firewall (NGFW) solutions from Palo Alto Networks (e.g., PA-Series appliances) to enforce network security, implement threat prevention, and zero trust principles and concepts.
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Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Systems Engineers, Cyber Security experts, and counterparts from the client’s partners organisations, to ensure the design meets security, performance, and accreditation requirements.
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Develop high-level and low-level architectural documentation, including system blueprints, design patterns, technical specifications, and support security governance, risk and compliance assessment.
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Provide technical guidance and support during the entire solution lifecycle, including development, testing, deployment, and troubleshooting, with other enabling technologies such as identity and PKI.
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Manage stakeholder expectations, effectively communicating complex technical concepts and project updates to non-technical and senior personnel.
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Identify potential risks and vulnerabilities within architectural decisions and provide effective mitigation strategies.
Qualification and Skills
Education: A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Software Engineering, or a related field. A Master's degree is highly desirable.
Experience:
Extensive experience (typically 10+ years) as a Solution Architect, Systems Architect, or in a related technical leadership role within Defence or another highly regulated sector.
Experience working on projects involving military command and control (C2) systems or similar secure information exchange environments.
Hands-on experience in designing and implementing secure, scalable network and system architectures, with an emphasis on capabilities for next generation firewall, guard and cross-domain solutions.
Technical Expertise:
Deep knowledge of networking protocols, routing, switching, and security principles.
Expertise in data security technologies, including encryption standards, key management, and data loss prevention (DLP) practices.
[Proficiency in design of Palo Alto Networks next generation firewalls, including experience with PAN-OS, App-ID, Threat Prevention, and Panorama management.]
[Experience in design of Isode M-Guard or similar cross-domain guard technologies, including configuration of application profiles, XML schema validation, and security label checking (e.g., STANAG 4774).]
[Experience in design of ArchTiS TDI or attribute-based access control technologies, including expertise ABAC policy design and implementation, defining and using attributes of users, data, devices, and environment real-time access decisions based on metadata tagging, labelling zero trust data formats and date centric standards (e.g., ACP240).]
Familiarity with architecture frameworks such as the TOGAF Certification, model-based systems engineering as well as agile and DevSecOps methodologies.
Understanding of cloud platforms (public, private) with an emphasis on private cloud in air-gapped environments and best practices for secure cloud architecture is a plus.
Soft Skills:
Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities to manage complex challenges.
Strong leadership and project management skills, with the ability to guide and mentor technical teams.
Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills for effective stakeholder engagement in a multinational environment.
Adaptability and a commitment to continuous learning to stay current with evolving NATO, FMN and security standards.
Desirable Qualifications
Relevant industry certifications such as PCNSE (Palo Alto Networks Certified Network Security Engineer), CISSP Certification, or cloud-specific Solution Architect certifications (e.g., Google Certified Solutions Architect).
Prior experience working within Defence, National Security or a NATO organisation.
Knowledge of specific systems and the underlying concepts of interoperability in a coalition context.
Why Join Us?
We are excited to see how your contributions will shape our projects and initiatives! This is your chance to collaborate with talented teams, drive success, and make a meaningful impact on our organization.
Additional Requirements:
Security Clearance Requirement: Given the secure nature of this role, we are seeking candidates who are Australian Citizens with an active security clearance (NV2).This requirement ensures that all team members are cleared to handle sensitive information and contribute to maintaining the highest standards of security in our operations.
Must be willing to work onsite 5 days a week
Benefits of working at Accenture:
18 weeks paid parental leave
Long & short-term career break opportunities
Structured career development program
Local and international career opportunities.
Certified as a Family Inclusive Workplace™
Flexible Work Arrangements - centered around Accenture’s Truly Human ethos and our commitment to supporting the health and wellbeing of our people.
We are proud to be in the top 3 of last year’s Diversity & Inclusion Index!
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