Every business has IT needs unique to its industry and market. Translating business needs into information technology solutions is an IT architect and systems manager’s specialty.
They provide technical leadership and consultation to an organization, usually starting at the top, with strategic decision-making. IT professionals seeking a career as an IT architect and systems manager can obtain the specialized skills required through an online Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) program, like the one from the Florida Institute of Technology.
Job Outlook for IT Architect and Systems Manager
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects substantial employment growth for the category that includes IT architects and systems managers. BLS reports that nearly 55,000 job openings available annually between 2023 and 2033, a growth rate of 17%.
Growth will occur as the complexity of technology — along with its use as a business tool — increases, spurring demand for IT architect and systems managers’ expertise. As tools such as artificial intelligence (AI) increase in necessity, systems managers with specialized technical knowledge and advanced degrees should have the best job prospects.
System Implementation and Other Job Duties
As a senior-level IT professional, an IT architect and systems manager primarily designs information systems to be implemented according to an organization’s goals, needs and objectives. They establish a system’s basic structure, defining essential design features and providing a framework for developers to follow.
In the beginning stages of a project, the IT architect and systems manager will participate in a variety of activities, including defining requirements; assessing server, storage and infrastructure sizing; analyzing hardware sizing to meet application requirements; and designing load balancing and clustering solutions according to architecture standards. They are often required to prepare architectural design documentation, including diagrams and inventories.
Throughout the life cycle of system implementation, the IT architect and systems manager will typically oversee building business plans, strategic direction, and standards for procedures and policies as they relate to IT systems architecture. They work with IT teams to ensure application requirements are understood and translated into technical solutions.
Other typical duties performed by an IT architect and systems managers are collaborating with staff, users and senior management on establishing business goals; reviewing new and existing IT projects, systems design and plans; and researching emerging technologies to support infrastructure changes. They often design, develop and supervise the implementation of test plans and report findings, in addition to making recommendations to appropriate stakeholders.
IT architects and systems managers usually work in offices, and a 40-hour week is standard. Travel to industry conferences, trade shows, and vendor locations or satellite offices could be required.
IT Architect and Systems Managers’ Potential Salary
According to national salary data from ZipRecruiter, IT architects earned an average annual income of $123,695 as of May 2025. The data also indicated that earning a master‘s degree can significantly impact earnings. With additional experience, IT architects and systems managers can advance into roles of increasing responsibility, resulting in higher potential annual earnings.
A sampling of executive IT salaries on ZipRecruiter in May 2025 showed that IT architects in the 75th percentile of earners brought in approximately $148,500. The data show that top salaries generally go to those with experience and advanced education to help businesses compete in a changing global environment.
Education and Training Requirements
Education requirements for IT architect and systems manager positions will vary by employer and industry. However, a bachelor‘s degree in a computer-related field is usually the minimum standard. Many employers show preference to candidates with master‘s degrees or advanced training.
Enrolling in Florida Tech’s online MSIT program is a great way to obtain the knowledge and advanced skills top employers want. Coursework typically includes project management for information technology, management of software systems, advanced management of information systems and database systems management.
Earning this degree can make graduates more attractive to potential employers. Employers can be confident that professionals who have earned an advanced degree in information technology are able to do the following:
- Provide a high degree of team leadership through complex projects
- Develop information systems as strategic tools to help businesses compete in a global environment
- Analyze emerging technologies and make recommendations for adaptation
- Implement a process-based approach to meeting organizational goals
- Leverage advanced knowledge and skills to succeed as an IT architect and systems manager
Essential Skills for Success in an IT Architect and Systems Manager Career
Success as an IT architect and systems manager requires leadership abilities and strong communication skills to complement an aptitude for computer systems. Creativity, flexibility and adaptability will also serve you well in this career’s often-diverse environment.
Gain essential strategic management skills and a cybersecurity perspective with an advanced degree. Enrolling in the MSIT online program from Florida Tech could be the first step on the path to your successful career as an IT architect and systems manager.
Learn more about Florida Tech’s online Master of Science in Information Technology program.
