IT Specialist (APPSW) Solutions Architect positions are being filled through the Office of Personnel Management's delegated Direct Hire Authority, open to all U.S. citizens. Selections made under this bulletin will be processed as new appointments to the civil service. Current civil service employees would, therefore, be given new appointments to the civil service. Under the provisions of the Direct Hire Authority, Veterans Preference and the "Rule of Many" do not apply.
Summary
IT Specialist (APPSW) Solutions Architect positions are being filled through the Office of Personnel Management's delegated Direct Hire Authority, open to all U.S. citizens. Selections made under this bulletin will be processed as new appointments to the civil service. Current civil service employees would, therefore, be given new appointments to the civil service. Under the provisions of the Direct Hire Authority, Veterans Preference and the "Rule of Many" do not apply.
This announcement serves as public notice. Applications submitted be placed into a pool and will remain on file for selection as positions become available.
Vacancies may be filled for up to 6 months after the closing date of this announcement. Applicants may not receive notifications of referral status until the full 6-month eligibility period has elapsed.
Positions filled with applications from this pool will be placed into positions where artificial intelligence duties occupy the majority of the work performed.
Selective Service Registration, if applicable (www.sss.gov)
Fingerprinting and background and/or security investigation may be required
Job offers are contingent on fingerprinting and background / security investigation results
Selectees may be required to serve a 1 year probationary period
Relocation expenses will not be paid
All qualification requirements must be met by the closing date of the announcement
Candidates will not be hired based on their race, sex, color, religion, or national origin.
Qualifications
Resumes exceeding two pages in length will not be considered. Please visit the new resume guidance for more information.
READ ALL SECTIONS OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT IN ITS ENTIRETY. THIS INFORMATION IS CRUCIAL TO SUBMITTING A SUCCESSFUL APPLICATION.
Applicants must qualify for the series and grade of the posted position.Experience must be IT related; the experience may be demonstrated by paid or unpaid experience and/or completion of specific, intensive training (for example, IT certification), as appropriate. Your resume must provide sufficient experience and/or education, knowledge, skills, abilities, and proficiency of any required competencies to perform the specific position for which you are applying.
To qualify for the 2210 IT Specialist series, the applicant must demonstrate the following competencies:
Attention to Detail - Is thorough when performing work and conscientious about attending to detail.
Customer Service - Works with clients and customers (that is, any individuals who use or receive the services or products that your work unit produces, including the general public, individuals who work in the agency, other agencies, or organizations outside the Government) to assess their needs, provide information or assistance, resolve their problems, or satisfy their expectations; know about available products and services; and is committed to providing quality products and services.
Oral Communication - Expresses information (for example, ideas or facts) to individuals or groups effectively, taking into account the audience and nature of the information (for example, technical, sensitive, controversial); makes clear and convincing oral presentations; listens to others, attends to nonverbal cues, and responds appropriately.
Problem Solving - Identifies problems; determines accuracy and relevance of information; uses sound judgment to generate and evaluate alternatives, and to make recommendations.
Minimum Qualifications: Grade 14To qualify at the GS-14 level, applicants must have 52 weeks of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-13 level or above, which is in or related to the work of the position to be filled, that has equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. Such specialized experience must include:
Designing, architecting, and maintaining enterprise-grade solutions using modern technologies and frameworks, including Java, Spring Boot, React, and Node.js.
Developing and implementing architectural standards, patterns, and best practices for scalable, secure, and high-performance applications.
Integrating cloud platforms, generative AI, and agentic AI into solution architectures to enhance automation and innovation.
Architecting and integrating database technologies such as DB2, Oracle, Postgres, and SQL Server for robust data management.
Collaborating with business analysts, developers, and stakeholders to translate business requirements into technical architectures.
Ensuring architectural compliance with federal security, privacy, and data governance standards.
Preparing and maintaining architectural documentation, including system diagrams, specifications, and user guides.
Participating in code and design reviews to ensure quality, security, and alignment with enterprise standards.
Supporting system migration, modernization, and digital transformation initiatives.
Mentoring and guiding technical teams, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
Demonstrating experience in solution architecture, system design, and application development in large-scale enterprise environments.
Applying knowledge of architectural frameworks (e.g., TOGAF, Zachman) and best practices.
Participating in system integration, migration, and modernization projects, and supporting the software development life cycle (SDLC), Agile methodologies, and version control (e.g., Git).
Demonstrating strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills, and excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
Minimum Qualifications: Grade 15To qualify at the GS-15 level, applicants must have 52 weeks of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-14 level or above, which is in or related to the work of the position to be filled, that has equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. Such specialized experience must include:
Leading the design, architecture, and maintenance of enterprise-grade solutions using modern technologies and frameworks, including Java, Spring Boot, React, and Node.js.
Developing and implementing architectural standards, patterns, and best practices for scalable, secure, and high-performance applications across the enterprise.
Directing the integration of cloud platforms, generative AI, and agentic AI into solution architectures to drive automation, efficiency, and innovation.
Architecting and overseeing the integration of database technologies such as DB2, Oracle, Postgres, and SQL Server to support robust data management and analytics.
Collaborating with business analysts, developers, and stakeholders to translate complex business requirements into comprehensive technical architectures.
Ensuring architectural compliance with federal security, privacy, and data governance standards, and providing expert guidance on regulatory requirements.
Preparing and maintaining comprehensive architectural documentation, including system diagrams, specifications, and user guides.
Leading code and design reviews to ensure quality, security, and alignment with enterprise standards.
Supporting and directing system migration, modernization, and digital transformation initiatives at the organizational level.
Mentoring and guiding technical teams, fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement.
Demonstrating proven experience in solution architecture, system design, and application development in large-scale enterprise environments.
Applying strong knowledge of architectural frameworks (e.g., TOGAF, Zachman) and best practices.
Overseeing system integration, migration, and modernization projects, and ensuring alignment with the software development life cycle (SDLC), Agile methodologies, and version control practices (e.g., Git).
Providing advanced analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills, and demonstrating excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
PLEASE NOTE: This Specialized Experience is REQUIRED and must be explicitly documented/described in your resume or you will be disqualified from further consideration.
This job does not have an education qualification requirement.
Additional information
See announcement cutoff dates below under How To Apply.
Are you ready to design the digital solutions that power America's future? The Social Security Administration's technology team is seeking Solution Architects to lead the development of robust, scalable, and secure applications that serve over 330 million Americans. Whether you're a seasoned architect with deep expertise in modern platforms or an early-career professional eager to master solution architecture, this is your opportunity to shape mission-critical systems at a national scale.
Forget everything you think you know about solution architecture-this is your chance to be at the forefront of a historic modernization effort. As a Solution Architect at SSA, you'll help reimagine and transform a portfolio of more than 4,000 mission-critical applications, bringing them into the future with modern technologies and innovative design. This is an unparalleled opportunity to drive real change, streamline operations, and deliver smarter, more efficient digital services to millions of Americans. Your expertise will be key in shaping the next generation of government technology, making a lasting impact on how we serve the public. You will also play a pivotal role in leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance automation, data-driven decision-making, and user experiences across our digital platforms.
If you're ready to take your career to the next level-whether you're a proven expert or an ambitious learner-apply today and discover how powerful and rewarding solution architecture can be as you help us build the future of digital government services!
Recruitment Incentive may be authorized.
Outstationing may be available at the GS-15 level.
Additional selections may be made for this vacancy six months from the closing date of this announcement. This Direct Hire announcement may be used to fill the same or similar position in another office.
Selective Service: If you are a male applicant born after December 31, 1959, you must certify that you have registered with the Selective Service System or are exempt from having to do so under the Selective Service Law. See www.sss.gov.
As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you may be required to serve a 1-year probationary period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider:
- your performance and conduct;
- the needs and interests of the agency;
- whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and
- whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service.
Upon completion of your probationary period your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
Duties
Design, architect, and maintain enterprise-grade solutions using modern technologies and frameworks, including Java, Spring Boot, React, and Node.js.
Develop and implement architectural standards, patterns, and best practices for scalable, secure, and high-performance applications.
Lead the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) capabilities-including generative AI, agentic AI, and predictive analytics-into solution architectures to drive automation, efficiency, and innovation.
Lead the integration of cloud platforms, generative AI, and agentic AI into solution architectures to drive automation, efficiency, and innovation.
Architect and oversee the integration of database technologies such as DB2, Oracle, Postgres, and SQL Server to support robust data management.
Collaborate with business analysts, developers, and stakeholders to translate business requirements into technical architectures.
Ensure architectural compliance with federal security, privacy, and data governance standards.
Prepare and maintain architectural documentation, including system diagrams, specifications, and user guides.
Participate in code and design reviews, ensuring quality, security, and alignment with enterprise standards.
Support system migration, modernization, and digital transformation initiatives.
Mentor and guide technical teams, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
Stay current with advancements in AI/ML technologies and recommend innovative solutions to enhance SSA's digital services.
The evaluation you receive is based on your responses to the online assessment questions completed during the application process.
Please make sure you answer all questions and follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect your evaluation.
Information not specifically stated in your resume cannot be assumed. Information that is copied or restated language from the vacancy announcement or rating criteria will not be considered. If this occurs, you may be found ineligible.
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
To apply for this position, you must submit a complete Application Package which includes:
Your resume showing work schedule, hours worked per week, dates of employment and duties performed.
Other documents supporting qualifications and/or preference, if applicable.
Resumes exceeding two pages will not be considered. To be considered, your resume must:
Clearly demonstrate your qualifications for the position
Include your contact information
We recommend using a clear, easy-to-read format and focusing on information most relevant to the job announcement.
You must also submit ALL supporting documentation by the closing date of the vacancy announcement to claim certain types of preference.
INTERAGENCY CAREER TRANSITION ASSISTANCE PLAN (ICTAP): ICTAP provides eligible displaced Federal competitive service employees with selection priority for competitive service vacancies. To receive selection priority, candidates must meet the requirements for the Well Qualified. Well-qualified is defined as having knowledge, skills, and abilities that clearly exceed the minimum qualification requirements for the position. Candidates must also provide:
proof of eligibility with your application. Such proof may include a copy of your written notification of ICTAP eligibility or a copy of your separation Notice of Personnel Action, (SF-50); and
proof of your most recent performance rating of at least "fully successful" (Level III) or equivalent.
Veteran's preference does not apply under this Direct Hire Authority for these positions.
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
Please read the entire announcement and all the instructions before you begin an application. To apply for this position, you must complete the initial online application, to include submission of the required documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on the closing date of the announcement to receive consideration. The application process is as follows:
To begin the application process, click the Apply Online button.
Answer the questions presented in the application and attach all necessary supporting documentation.
Click the Submit Application button prior to 11:59PM (ET) on the cutoff date or announcement closing date.
Announcement cutoff dates:
2/12/26
2/19/26
2/26/26
3/05/26
3/12/26
3/19/26
3/26/26
4/02/26
4/09/26
4/16/26
4/23/26
4/30/26
5/07/26
5/14/26
5/21/26
5/28/26
6/04/26
6/11/26
6/18/26
6/25/26
7/02/26
7/09/26
7/16/26
7/23/26
8/05/26
You may update your application, including supporting documentation, at any time during the announcement open period by returning to your USAJOBS account. There you will find a record of your application, the application status, and an option to Update Application. This option will no longer be available once the announcement has closed.
To verify the status of your application both during and after the announcement open period, log into your USAJOBS account. All of your applications will appear on the Welcome page. The application record in your USAJOBS account provides an Additional Application Information page that provides information regarding the documentation you submitted and any correspondence we have sent related to this application. The Application Status will appear along with the date your application was last updated. For information on what each Application Status means, visit https://www.usajobs.gov/Help/how-to/application/status/.
If you use assistive software or an adaptive device, or you are experiencing some other type of technical difficulty and/or otherwise require assistance with the application process, please contact Careers@ssa.gov.
Individuals with disabilities may also call us via Federal Relay using the (voice) contact telephone provided.
Due to our security procedures, our office will not accept any applications submitted via email or standard mail. The email address is listed only for inquiries about the position or the How to Apply process.
OCIO Front Office
6401 Security Boulevard
Baltimore, MD 21235
US
Next steps
Once you have successfully submitted your application materials, you can expect to receive an email notifications acknowledging receipt of your application.
The hiring office will contact candidates directly for interviews. Interviews may be conducted via video conferencing software, if technically feasible.
To check the status of your application or return to a previous or incomplete application, log in to your USAJOBS account, select Application Status, and click on the more information link under the application status for this position.
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
To apply for this position, you must submit a complete Application Package which includes:
Your resume showing work schedule, hours worked per week, dates of employment and duties performed.
Other documents supporting qualifications and/or preference, if applicable.
Resumes exceeding two pages will not be considered. To be considered, your resume must:
Clearly demonstrate your qualifications for the position
Include your contact information
We recommend using a clear, easy-to-read format and focusing on information most relevant to the job announcement.
You must also submit ALL supporting documentation by the closing date of the vacancy announcement to claim certain types of preference.
INTERAGENCY CAREER TRANSITION ASSISTANCE PLAN (ICTAP): ICTAP provides eligible displaced Federal competitive service employees with selection priority for competitive service vacancies. To receive selection priority, candidates must meet the requirements for the Well Qualified. Well-qualified is defined as having knowledge, skills, and abilities that clearly exceed the minimum qualification requirements for the position. Candidates must also provide:
proof of eligibility with your application. Such proof may include a copy of your written notification of ICTAP eligibility or a copy of your separation Notice of Personnel Action, (SF-50); and
proof of your most recent performance rating of at least "fully successful" (Level III) or equivalent.
Veteran's preference does not apply under this Direct Hire Authority for these positions.
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
Please read the entire announcement and all the instructions before you begin an application. To apply for this position, you must complete the initial online application, to include submission of the required documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on the closing date of the announcement to receive consideration. The application process is as follows:
To begin the application process, click the Apply Online button.
Answer the questions presented in the application and attach all necessary supporting documentation.
Click the Submit Application button prior to 11:59PM (ET) on the cutoff date or announcement closing date.
Announcement cutoff dates:
2/12/26
2/19/26
2/26/26
3/05/26
3/12/26
3/19/26
3/26/26
4/02/26
4/09/26
4/16/26
4/23/26
4/30/26
5/07/26
5/14/26
5/21/26
5/28/26
6/04/26
6/11/26
6/18/26
6/25/26
7/02/26
7/09/26
7/16/26
7/23/26
8/05/26
You may update your application, including supporting documentation, at any time during the announcement open period by returning to your USAJOBS account. There you will find a record of your application, the application status, and an option to Update Application. This option will no longer be available once the announcement has closed.
To verify the status of your application both during and after the announcement open period, log into your USAJOBS account. All of your applications will appear on the Welcome page. The application record in your USAJOBS account provides an Additional Application Information page that provides information regarding the documentation you submitted and any correspondence we have sent related to this application. The Application Status will appear along with the date your application was last updated. For information on what each Application Status means, visit https://www.usajobs.gov/Help/how-to/application/status/.
If you use assistive software or an adaptive device, or you are experiencing some other type of technical difficulty and/or otherwise require assistance with the application process, please contact Careers@ssa.gov.
Individuals with disabilities may also call us via Federal Relay using the (voice) contact telephone provided.
Due to our security procedures, our office will not accept any applications submitted via email or standard mail. The email address is listed only for inquiries about the position or the How to Apply process.
OCIO Front Office
6401 Security Boulevard
Baltimore, MD 21235
US
Next steps
Once you have successfully submitted your application materials, you can expect to receive an email notifications acknowledging receipt of your application.
The hiring office will contact candidates directly for interviews. Interviews may be conducted via video conferencing software, if technically feasible.
To check the status of your application or return to a previous or incomplete application, log in to your USAJOBS account, select Application Status, and click on the more information link under the application status for this position.
Fair and transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
