Solution architect, IT

What does an IT Solutions Architect do? – Tasks and Work Environment

An IT solutions architect is responsible for designing technical solutions that meet the needs and requirements of the business. The role involves analyzing complex systems, specifying architecture and design, and coordinating development teams and other stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle. The work environment is often office-based, but remote work is common, especially in larger IT organizations and consulting firms. The solutions architect works closely with both business and IT, acting as a bridge between business goals and technical possibilities.

Salary development over time

The salary for an IT solutions architect has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 52 700 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 55 100 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has risen further to 56 800 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 7.8% over the three-year period. This positive salary trend reflects a continued high demand for advanced IT skills, especially in architecture and system design, where digitalization and complex integration projects boost market value. Salary differences can also be explained by education level, work experience, and whether the employer is in the private or public sector.

IT Solutions Architect Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 56 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 39,500 SEK/month (male), 42,200 SEK/month (female)
• Highest salary: 71,600 SEK/month (male), 67,800 SEK/month (female)
• Hourly rate: 342 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Men earn 58 700 SEK, women 52 700 SEK (women earn 90% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salaries vary depending on location and sector, generally higher in metropolitan regions.

Education and Qualifications

To work as an IT solutions architect, a university degree in computer science, systems engineering, or a similar technical field is usually required. Many employers also prefer several years of experience in system development, as well as knowledge of architecture methods and modern development tools. Specialized certifications and ongoing skills development are often advantageous and can be crucial for career advancement.

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science, systems engineering, or similar (3–5 years)
• Certifications such as TOGAF, AWS Certified Solutions Architect, or Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert
• Experience in system development, project management, or technical design
• Prerequisites include a deep understanding of programming, databases, and integration solutions
• Skills development via online courses, industry seminars, and self-study is recommended

Common Benefits and Compensation

Common benefits for IT solutions architects include pension schemes, flexible working hours, remote work options, and wellness allowances. Other compensations may include bonus programs, skills development grants, and favorable insurance packages. In some cases, company cars and extra vacation days are also offered.

Competition and Challenges

The competition for positions as an IT solutions architect is generally high, especially in metropolitan areas where the largest employers are located. Many employers seek both deep technical expertise and the ability to lead complex projects. The rapid pace of change within the IT industry makes continuous skills development essential to remain attractive in the job market. Additionally, the role can involve long working hours and a high tempo, particularly in consulting firms and during large implementation projects. The ability to quickly adapt to new technologies and ways of working is a key success factor.

Tips for aspiring IT Solutions Architects

To succeed as an IT solutions architect, it’s beneficial to combine analytical skills with technical depth. Gaining early experience in system development provides a solid foundation and understanding of practical architecture challenges. It’s also valuable to develop communication skills, as the role often requires presenting technical solutions to non-technical stakeholders. Engagement in industry forums and networks enhances the ability to follow trends and make contacts. Curiosity and the ability to quickly absorb new technologies are important traits, as is being organized to manage complex projects and deliveries.

Key facts about IT Solutions Architects

• Education level: University or college degree (3–5 years)
• Work environment: Office-based with elements of remote work
• Demand: 179 job openings within the profession (May 2024)
• Special skills: Architecture methods, integration solutions, cloud services
• Gender distribution: Women earn 90% of what men do in the profession

Career paths and future outlook

After 3–5 years as an IT solutions architect, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as chief architect, IT architecture leader, or move into strategic leadership positions within IT governance. Consulting firms often offer career paths where specialization within specific technologies or industries can lead to expert roles. Forecasts from the Employment Service show that the professions of system analysts and IT architects have a high number of job openings, although no precise forecast is given due to limited data. Digitalization and transformation in both private and public sectors are expected to continue driving demand for this expertise.

Frequently Asked Questions about Solutions Architect, IT

• What does an Solutions Architect, IT earn?
  - The average salary is 56 800 SEK per month, with variation between 39,500 and 71,600 SEK depending on experience and employer.
• What education is required to become a solutions architect in IT?
  - Typically, a university degree in computer science, systems engineering, or similar, along with several years of system development experience.
• Are there gender differences in salary for solutions architects in IT?
  - Yes, women earn on average 90% of what men do in the profession.
• What is the job market like for solutions architects in IT?
  - There are 179 job openings within the profession, and demand remains high, especially in metropolitan regions.
• What are the most common benefits in the profession?
  - Pension schemes, flexible working hours, remote work, wellness allowances, and skills development are common benefits.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - You can advance to roles such as chief architect, IT architecture leader, or specialist roles within specific technologies.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The outlook is positive, although detailed statistics are lacking, and digitalization continues to increase the demand for this expertise.