Security Architect

Security Architect job description

A Security Architect is responsible for designing, building, testing and implementing security systems within an organisation’s IT network. A Security Architect is expected to have a thorough understanding of complex IT systems and stay up to date with the latest security standards, systems and authentication protocols, as well as best practice security products.

Security Architect duties and responsibilities of the job

In addition to anticipating possible security threats and identifying areas of weakness in a network system, a Security Architect must respond promptly and effectively to possible breaches of security. A Security Architect job description generally includes:

Reviewing current system security measures and recommending and implementing enhancements

Conducting regular system tests and ensuring continuous monitoring of network security

Developing project timelines for ongoing system upgrades

Ensuring all personnel have access to the IT system limited by need and role

Establishing disaster recovery procedures and conducting breach of security drills

Promptly responding to all security incidents and providing thorough post-event analyses

As a senior member of the IT team, a Security Architect job description should also include cultivating a culture of security awareness, and arranging continuing education of personnel to ensure security policies are adhered to at all times.

Security Architect job qualifications and requirements

A degree in Information Technology, Computer Science or related field is highly desirable. Some employers may require additional advanced security qualifications such as SABSA (Sherwood Applied Business Security Architecture) or CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) certifications.

As well as formal qualifications, a Security Architect job description should include the following qualities:

Extensive experience in information security and/or IT risk management with a focus on security, performance and reliability

Solid understanding of security protocols, cryptography, authentication, authorisation and security

Good working knowledge of current IT risks and experience implementing security solutions

Experience implementing multi-fact or authentication, single sign-on, identity management or related technologies

Ability to interact with a broad cross-section of personnel to explain and enforce security measures

Excellent written and verbal communication skills as well as business acumen and a commercial outlook

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