Cloud Solutions Architect
Job Summary:The Cloud Solutions Architect 2 is responsible for leading and directing cloud computing initiatives and architectural strategies within an organization. This role focuses on designing, planning, and engineering cloud infrastructure and applications, supporting IT modernization and transformation efforts. The architect collaborates with various stakeholders to ensure cloud solutions align with business needs, security standards, and compliance regulations, while driving strategic initiatives and delivering high-quality technical solutions.Responsibilities:Lead strategic efforts supporting project delivery and steady-state operations for Data Center Operations (DCO) Service Delivery.Develop architectural blueprints, network topologies, and technical specifications aligned with business requirements and cloud services.Serve as lead cloud engineer guiding technology initiatives and projects addressing business needs.Perform advanced systems analysis, automate processes, and enhance systems transitioning to public, private, or hybrid cloud platforms.Drive cross-functional initiatives involving agency systems, IT groups, and other entities through coordination and planning.Evaluate and present architectural options for technology solution selection and implementation.Implement Infrastructure as Code (IaC) and integration pipelines to streamline deployments and scale resources efficiently.Ensure solution designs comply with data security requirements and industry regulations, including HIPAA and HHSC best practices.Design, develop, and administer scalable cloud-based systems with reporting and full system integration capabilities.Lead and participate in solution implementation, including problem-solving, system analysis, coding, testing, and documentation.Identify gaps between current and desired technical solutions and develop approaches to close them.Collaborate with IT groups on technology recommendations and assist in IT planning and justification.Oversee and conduct training for staff on new technologies and data analytics platforms.Perform other duties as assigned.Required Skills & Certifications:7+ years of experience in computer systems, IT equipment, programming languages, hardware, software, and operating systems.Strong knowledge of new cloud technologies and analytical services from major cloud providers (AWS, Azure, GCP).Understanding of cloud delivery models: PaaS, SaaS, IaaS.Experience with agile (scrum) methodology and ceremonies.Expertise in cloud-based network design principles and cloud security, governance, and compliance.Strong technical writing and diagramming skills, proficiency with modeling tools (e.g., Visio) and Microsoft Office Suite.Analytical and problem-solving skills in technology architecture for software development, data analytics, or data warehousing.Experience with cloud computing DevOps principles, CI/CD, containerization, microservices, and Kubernetes architecture.Proficiency in supporting Kubernetes clusters, serverless infrastructure, and cloud API integrations.Hands-on experience with cloud automation tools such as Ansible, Terraform, AWS CloudFormation, and Azure Resource Manager templates.Knowledge of cloud monitoring, auditing, logging, and operations tools (e.g., Sysdig Secure, Dynatrace, AWS CloudWatch).Strong scripting and automation skills using Bash, Korn, PowerShell, Cloud CLI, Kubernetes Helm, and related tools.Experience with declarative and imperative languages (YAML, JSON, Ruby, HCL) and infrastructure-as-code tools.Ability to manage multiple projects under pressure, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.Leadership skills to guide team members and create best practices and procedures.Preferred Skills & Certifications:8+ years of advanced experience in cloud technologies, architecture, and enterprise IT solutions.Deep knowledge of cloud database services, data lakes, ETL/ELT best practices, and handling structured and unstructured data.Experience with AI services configuration from major cloud providers.Knowledge of data pipelines, ETL processes, and big data frameworks.Special Considerations:Hybrid work model requiring both on-site presence and telework.Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and exercise initiative and judgment.Must ensure compliance with HIPAA and other relevant data security regulations.May require coordination across multiple agencies and stakeholders.Scheduling:12-month contract position.Hybrid schedule combining on-site work in Austin, Texas, and telework.