Cyber Security Architect

Role: Cybersecurity Architect
Experience: 11+ Years
Location: Chicago, IL (Onsite Only) - 6 Months Contract to Hire
Work Mode: Client location; NO Remote Work and NO Relocation.

Core Responsibilities

The candidate will be expected to:

• Define and execute enterprise cybersecurity architecture strategy.
• Design secure architectures for on-premises, cloud (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud Platform), and hybrid environments.
• Perform security architecture reviews, threat modeling, and risk assessments.
• Develop and enforce security standards, policies, and governance.
• Implement security frameworks such as NIST, ISO 27001, CIS Controls, and Zero Trust.
• Integrate security into DevOps processes (DevSecOps).
• Lead initiatives around IAM, network security, endpoint security, and data protection.
• Evaluate security technologies and recommend appropriate solutions.
• Support incident response and compliance activities.
• Mentor security engineers and architects.

Required Technical Skills

The ideal candidate should have strong expertise in:

• Enterprise Security Architecture
• Cloud Security (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud Platform)
• Network Security (Firewalls, IDS/IPS, VPNs)
• Identity & Access Management (IAM, SSO, MFA)
• Application Security and Secure SDLC
• Data Protection and Encryption
• SIEM, EDR, DLP, CASB, and Vulnerability Management
• Zero Trust Architecture
• Threat Modeling and Risk Management
• Compliance frameworks including HIPAA, GDPR, SOX, and PCI-DSS
• Python or PowerShell scripting (preferred)

Preferred Certifications

• CISSP
• CISM or CISA
• SABSA or TOGAF
• CCSP
• AWS Security Specialty
• Azure Security Engineer

Education

• Bachelor''''s or Master''''s degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or a related discipline.

Ideal Candidate Profile

A strong match would typically have:

• 11–15+ years of cybersecurity experience.
• Extensive experience designing enterprise security architectures.
• Hands-on experience securing hybrid and multi-cloud environments.
• Strong background in Zero Trust, IAM, DevSecOps, and security governance.
• Experience leading architecture discussions with business and technical stakeholders.
• Multiple security certifications (especially CISSP and cloud security certifications).