Web architect
Web architects design and optimise the technical plans for mobile applications and websites. They ensure the performance and durability of the tools deployed.
Web architects are technical experts responsible for creating and developing the technical plans for mobile applications and websites. From the earliest stages of a project, they carry out a technical audit, assess requirements and propose appropriate solutions in collaboration with project managers and customers. They design and model system architectures, size resources and ensure the consistency of the solutions chosen to guarantee the durability and performance of the tools deployed.
It provides ongoing technical support throughout the project lifecycle. It takes part in load tests and intervenes in the event of problems. During deployment, they work with the project manager to pass on the necessary skills to the operating teams.
Web architects master the architecture of web systems to ensure performance, security and scalability. They have expertise in programming languages (Java, PHP, .NET, JavaScript) and their frameworks (Spring, Symfony, Angular), as well as in relational and non-relational database management.
He/she uses testing tools (unit, functional, load). They are familiar with project management methodologies (Agile, Scrum, Kanban, Waterfall). Knowledge of telecoms infrastructures, bandwidth, network layers and IT system hardware is essential. They must be comfortable with CMS (WordPress, Drupal).
Web architects are good communicators who know how to adapt their language to the people they are dealing with (development teams, operations teams and customers). Active listening enables them to understand the needs of customers and teams. They must be able to react quickly and creatively to solve problems and adapt projects in line with budgetary or functional constraints. Rigour, method and the ability to work independently and in a multi-skilled way enable them to bring projects to a successful conclusion.
The job of web architect is an exciting one because it allows you to have a direct impact on the success of a project. However, this responsibility can also be a source of stress, especially when technical problems arise and you have to be available to resolve them quickly. The pace is intense, with a constant need to keep up to date with new technologies, but that's also what makes the job dynamic and stimulating.
To become a web architect, you need to have completed 5 years of higher education. This diploma is obtained from a master's degree in computing, networks or telecommunications, or from a specialist engineering school such as HETIC or Epitech. By the end of the course, graduates have mastered project management, object-oriented development methods and knowledge of telecoms and hardware management.
It is very rare to become a web architect at the end of a training course. This job requires 2 to 5 years' experience in positions such as web developer, technical web project manager or web development engineer.
Web architects work in web agencies, for digital service companies (ESN, SSII), software publishers or large companies with their own web department. Web architects can also be found in young start-ups in the mobile telephony or video broadcasting sectors.
After a few years, there are a number of career paths open to web architects: they may move on to positions such as web project manager, web technical director, CTO (Chief Technology Officer) or CIO (Chief Information Officer).