Java Architect

GFT is seeking an experienced Java Architect for our client a world leading developer of software solutions. The team develop, enhance and support web based on-line booking systems, with very large transactions volumes, for the world's largest travel organisations. The purpose of the role is to understand business requirements; translate them into the architecture of the applications, prototype proposals and support development teams by publishing guidelines and evangelizing good practices.

This includes:

Project and product architecture support:
To control the technical evolution of products by animating the Architecture committee
Understand customer requirements, and translate them in the high level software architecture
Identify the needs of framework evolutions, and work with framework teams deliver them
Analysis of stress tests results
Train and coach users of the Java Common Platform
Put in place the right tools and documentation to understand and manage the components portfolio

Drive architectural changes:
Participate to the definition of mid-long term architectural vision
Convince Management and Developments teams to adopt new directions
Prototype architectural evolutions, to validate them
Drive the change with framework and functional teams (ie lead development activities)

Participate to pre-sales activities:
Answer to RFP
Technical presentations to prospect customers The role requires an individual with a passion for technology and problem solving, a strong technical background with 5-10 years' experience, and responsibility for project delivery.

Technical skills include:
Excellent Java/J2EE knowledge
Expert understanding of system design and nonfunctional requirements, performance analysis, optimization of complex software
Web technologies
Weblogic, Clearcase, Eclipse, Ant, Maven
UML

In addition you must have good communication skills, comfortable interrogating and informing clients, pushing forward projects and solutions. You should also be very comfortable in an international environment and be motivated by the opportunity to work in the South of France. English is the primary language for the projects; any other language skills are nice to have. This is a long-term opportunity to work in a highly technical and innovative environment with a large international team.

Candidates should be motivated by the challenge of the role and the chance to work in an attractive location.