IT - Systems Architect IV (cloud engineer)

Job#: 3010972

Job Description:

For immediate response, please send to : WORD resume, desired hourly/salary rate, and best time to speak!

Position: Cloud Engineer

Location: DC3, Linthicum Heights, MD (On-site)

Duration: Long-term (Task Order: Task 3, XT)

MUST HAVES:

• Active Secret Clearance
• Bachelor's degree + 12 years experience (or equivalent per JD)
• Architect Certification: Solutions Architect (preferably Azure)
• Security Certification: Security+ or equivalent (IAT Level II or III)
• Minimum 3 years experience with Microsoft Azure Government
• Expertise in cloud architecture, containerization (Kubernetes, Docker), and IaC tools (Terraform, ARM templates)
• Familiarity with DevOps tools (GitLab, JIRA, Jenkins)

Job Description:

Overview:

The Cloud Engineer plays a critical role in supporting a federal government program by focusing primarily on migrating sensitive workloads to the cloud. This hands-on position requires expertise in designing, implementing, and maintaining cloud architectures, with an emphasis on security, scalability, and compliance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and implement secure, scalable, and highly available cloud solutions on Azure Government, utilizing PaaS/IaaS services and containerization (Kubernetes, Docker, AKS).
• Create and execute detailed cloud migration plans while ensuring security and compliance throughout the process.
• Drive enhancements for cloud management platforms, evaluating their performance and making necessary improvements.
• Develop infrastructure as code (IAC) using CI/CD pipelines with tools such as Terraform and ARM templates.
• Lead cloud consulting engagements, providing strategic insights on cloud architecture, technology deployments, and portfolio management.
• Educate and guide stakeholders and engineering teams on effective cloud solutions, security best practices, and cost optimization strategies.
• Participate in technical project reviews to ensure designs meet operational and security requirements.
• Maintain technical documentation and stay updated on emerging tools and best practices.

Required Qualifications:

• Knowledge of computer networking concepts and protocols, and network security methodologies.
• Knowledge of risk management processes.
• Knowledge of cybersecurity principles, cyber threats, and vulnerabilities.
• Knowledge of cloud computing service models (SaaS, IaaS, PaaS) and deployment models (private, public, hybrid).
• A minimum of 3 years of experience specifically within Microsoft Azure Government.
• Proven experience in designing flexible, scalable, and highly-available cloud architectures and systems.
• Expertise in containerization technologies (Kubernetes, Docker) and IaC tools (Terraform, ARM templates).
• Familiarity with DevOps concepts and tools (GitLab, JIRA, Jenkins).

Desired Qualifications:

• Familiarity with NIST 800-53, FedRAMP, security tools, and principles.
• In-depth expertise with DAF CLOUDWorks (multi-cloud environments).
• Experience with data visualization tools (e.g., Power BI) and cyber threat intelligence platforms.
• Knowledge of AI/ML concepts and tools.

Highly Desired Certifications:

• Cloud: Azure Solutions Architect Expert, Azure Administrator Associate, AWS Certified SysOps Administrator, AWS Certified Solutions Architect (Professional/Associate)
• Cloud Security: CCSP, Cloud+, GCLD, GCSA
• Project Management: PMP, PMI-ACP, CSM

Apex Systems is a world-class IT services company that serves thousands of clients across the globe. When you join Apex, you become part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. We offer quality career resources, training, certifications, development opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in many awards, including ClearlyRated's Best of Staffing in Talent Satisfaction in the United States and Great Place to Work in the United Kingdom and Mexico.

Apex Benefits Overview: Apex offers a range of supplemental benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and other insurance plans that offer an optional layer of financial protection. We offer an ESPP (employee stock purchase program) and a 401K program which allows you to contribute typically within 30 days of starting, with a company match after 12 months of tenure. Apex also offers a HSA (Health Savings Account on the HDHP plan), a SupportLinc Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with up to 8 free counseling sessions, a corporate discount savings program and other discounts. In terms of professional development, Apex hosts an on-demand training program, provides access to certification prep and a library of technical and leadership courses/books/seminars once you have 6+ months of tenure, and certification discounts and other perks to associations that include CompTIA and IIBA. Apex has a dedicated customer service team for our Consultants that can address questions around benefits and other resources, as well as a certified Career Coach. You can access a full list of our benefits, programs, support teams and resources within our 'Welcome Packet' as well, which an Apex team member can provide.