Lead Software Architect

Aqua is a leader in cloud-native security, protecting critical workloads across the full application lifecycle - from development to production. Our runtime technologies operate at scale in complex, distributed environments and are trusted by leading enterprises worldwide.

We are looking for a Lead Software Architect (Individual Contributor) to join our Runtime Technology Group. This role is ideal for a highly experienced engineer who wants to remain hands-on while leading through architecture, technical decision-making, and collaboration - without people management responsibilities.

What you’ll do:

• Own and drive the architectural design of core runtime and SaaS platform components, with a strong focus on scalability, reliability, and data design.
• Translate high-level product and business requirements into clear, production-ready system designs for cloud and on-prem environments.
• Lead technical direction through design reviews, architectural discussions, and hands-on implementation.
• Define and promote architectural standards, patterns, and engineering best practices across teams.
• Work closely with backend, data, platform, and product engineers to design and build robust, data-driven systems.
• Design and optimize data models, storage strategies, and pipelines for high-volume, real-time, and analytical workloads.
• Remain hands-on by implementing strategic components, building PoCs, and supporting complex engineering efforts.
• Evaluate and introduce technologies that improve performance, scalability, security, and observability.
• Act as a technical mentor and trusted advisor, influencing teams through expertise rather than authority.
• Partner with cross-functional stakeholders to ensure architectural decisions align with product goals and long-term strategy.

• 8+ years of experience designing and building large-scale, distributed systems.
• Proven experience in a senior IC, technical lead, or architect role
• 5+ years of hands-on experience with Linux systems programming (agents, low-level components, OS internals).
• Strong understanding of microservices architectures, modern SaaS platforms, and data pipelines.
• Solid experience with cloud-native technologies such as Docker, Kubernetes, and public cloud providers (AWS, GCP, Azure).
• Ability to lead technical initiatives across multiple teams through influence, collaboration, and clear communication.
• Excellent design, documentation, and communication skills.
• A pragmatic, hands-on mindset with a strong sense of ownership and accountability.
• BSc in Computer Science or equivalent practical experience (advanced degree or military tech unit background - a plus).
• Experience working in an Agile R&D environment - an advantage.

Why join Aqua?

• Work on core runtime security technology that operates at scale in real-world, production environments.
• Take on meaningful architectural ownership with visible impact on the product and customers.
• Collaborate with strong, experienced engineers who value depth, clarity, and execution.
• Stay hands-on while shaping long-term technical foundations.