Contract Software Lead Architect (IoT / Smart Systems)

6-month contract | Outside IR35 | Hybrid (UK)

Edison Smart is hiring on behalf of a long-established technology organisation that is investing in the next phase of its software and platform architecture.

This role sits at a senior level within the architecture function and will play a key part in defining how complex, connected systems are designed, secured, and scaled going forward. The successful contractor will have genuine influence over technical direction, not just delivery.

The Opportunity

You’ll take ownership of high-level software architecture across connected platforms, working closely with engineers, architects, and product stakeholders to translate strategic intent into practical, buildable solutions.

The environment suits someone who enjoys:

• Modernising and reshaping existing architectures
• Working across IoT platforms, integrations, and distributed systems
• Operating hands-on while still thinking at system and roadmap level

Sector-specific experience (e.g. lighting or hardware) is not essential — strong architectural judgement and communication area.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and evolve end-to-end software architecture for connected and IoT-enabled systems
• Design scalable, secure, and maintainable architectures covering device connectivity, edge processing, and data flows
• Set architectural standards, principles, and decision records
• Guide teams on best practice across security, compliance, and system design
• Collaborate closely with architects, engineers, and product leadership across multiple locations

Required Experience

• 5+ years’ experience operating as a senior or lead software architect
• Strong background in modern software architecture, system integration, and distributed platforms
• Hands-on knowledge of IoT protocols and patterns (e.g. MQTT, CoAP, AMQP)
• Experience with device management and edge computing concepts
• Solid understanding of cybersecurity considerations within connected ecosystems
• Exposure to data pipelines, real-time processing, analytics, or ML integration
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to bridge technical and non-technical audiences
• Fluent English

Desirable Experience

• Industrial IoT, smart devices, or smart building platforms
• Embedded or firmware-adjacent architectural understanding
• DevOps practices, CI/CD pipelines, and automated testing
• Strong problem-solving mindset and interest in architectural improvement

Contract Details

• Initial 6-month engagement with potential extension
• Outside IR35
• Hybrid working with regular onsite collaboration in the UK (driving recommended)

If you’re a senior architect who enjoys shaping systems rather than maintaining status quo, this is a high-impact contract worth exploring.

To discuss further, apply directly or contact Jack Hudgell @ Edison Smart for more information.