Software Architect (all genders)

You bring structure to applications that are growing, being modernised or connected to new systems. You analyse existing dependencies and decide where a change will deliver the greatest value. Here, architecture also means considering migrations, teamwork and operational risks in practical terms.

An established application can rarely be replaced in full at once. You analyse responsibilities and data dependencies before defining new module boundaries. Old and new components may run in parallel for a time. You therefore define which system remains responsible for which data and how discrepancies are identified. Architecture decisions are documented and verified with prototypes or concrete migration steps.

• Analyse existing applications, data flows and technical debt and prioritise modernisation steps.
• Design interfaces, module boundaries and integration patterns and document architecture decisions transparently.
• Plan migrations with secure transitions, including data reconciliation, rollback options and compatibility.
• Support development teams with reviews, prototypes and implementation of critical architecture components.
• Plan modernisation steps with data ownership, compatibility and rollback options.
• Verify critical architecture assumptions through prototypes, load measurements or integration trials.

What matters is demonstrable experience that is relevant to the role. It may come from appropriate vocational training, a degree, professional practice or a well-founded career change. We will align the specific level of responsibility with your knowledge and experience.

• Several years of practical software-development experience and experience with architecture responsibility.
• Understanding of data modelling, integration and non-functional requirements.
• Ability to explain technical alternatives with their costs, risks and impact on teams.

This knowledge is helpful, but you do not need to have all of it at once. In your application, describe where you have already gained practical experience and which areas you would like to explore in greater depth.

• Experience with legacy modernisation or complex enterprise applications.
• Knowledge of event architectures, domain modelling or cloud migrations.

You deliver decisions that teams can genuinely use to move forward. Good architecture limits risks, makes dependencies visible and improves adaptability step by step.

This role can be based in Cologne or performed remotely. We will agree the specific form of collaboration, project requirements and any necessary customer appointments before you start.

This role is offered as permanent employment on a full-time or part-time basis. We will agree the responsibilities, working hours, start date and compensation to suit the role and your level of experience.

Show us in your application which experience or interests you bring to this role. A CV and relevant project examples, certificates or work samples will help us assess your professional background. Please do not send confidential customer data, credentials or protected source code.

Tell us your preferred working model, your possible start date and whether you would like to work full-time or part-time.

If you have questions about the role, contact our recruitment team at hr@otoko.com. Inclusion in the applicant pool is voluntary and takes place only with separate consent; it is not a prerequisite for reviewing your application.