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The differences between information technology architects and lead architects can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. Additionally, an information technology architect has an average salary of $116,007, which is higher than the $104,687 average annual salary of a lead architect.
The top three skills for an information technology architect include cloud, java and emerging technologies. The most important skills for a lead architect are digital transformation, architecture, and java.
| Information Technology Architect | Lead Architect | |
| Yearly salary | $116,007 | $104,687 |
| Hourly rate | $55.77 | $50.33 |
| Growth rate | 16% | 21% |
| Number of jobs | 156,730 | 266,541 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 68% | Bachelor's Degree, 63% |
| Average age | 44 | 44 |
| Years of experience | - | - |
An information technology architect is responsible for designing and creating new technology systems and optimizing the performance of existing ones. Information technology architects analyze the business needs and client requirements to identify system features and technology infrastructure according to budget limitations and timetables. They also consider the public demands and technology trends to ensure that the deliverables would reach the audience's interest to boost awareness and attract potential clients, generating more resources for revenues. An information technology architect should have excellent technical and project management skills, especially on implementing technology solutions and running diagnostic tests to measure systems compatibility.
A lead architect spearheads architectural operations while maintaining an active communication line with clients. They typically meet with clients to discuss the project's needs and specifications, agree on a budget, provide advice and recommendations, and negotiate contracts. They are also in charge of developing building designs, coordinating staff, devising plans, incorporating essential systems, and providing technical and guidance as needed. Moreover, as the lead architect of the project, they must enforce policies and regulations to maintain a smooth and efficient workflow.
Information technology architects and lead architects have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Information Technology Architect | Lead Architect | |
| Average salary | $116,007 | $104,687 |
| Salary range | Between $88,000 And $152,000 | Between $78,000 And $139,000 |
| Highest paying City | San Francisco, CA | San Francisco, CA |
| Highest paying state | California | California |
| Best paying company | Mayo Clinic | |
| Best paying industry | Manufacturing | Insurance |
There are a few differences between an information technology architect and a lead architect in terms of educational background:
| Information Technology Architect | Lead Architect | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 68% | Bachelor's Degree, 63% |
| Most common major | Computer Science | Computer Science |
| Most common college | Stanford University | Massachusetts Institute of Technology |
Here are the differences between information technology architects' and lead architects' demographics:
| Information Technology Architect | Lead Architect | |
| Average age | 44 | 44 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 87.4% Female, 12.6% | Male, 90.2% Female, 9.8% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 6.2% Unknown, 4.7% Hispanic or Latino, 8.8% Asian, 12.0% White, 67.7% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.5% | Black or African American, 6.2% Unknown, 4.7% Hispanic or Latino, 8.8% Asian, 12.0% White, 67.7% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.5% |
| LGBT Percentage | 11% | 11% |