Cloud & Platform Architect Google Cloud Platform
Cloud & Platform ArchitectHybrid, Houston TX Exp: 12+yrsTop Skills Details Google Cloud Platform (Google Cloud Platform) architecture expertise: With hands‑on experience designing, operating, and optimizing cloud infrastructure. Hybrid infrastructure and networking experience: Including on‑prem connectivity, routing, VPNs/tunnels, DNS, and identity integration. Strong change leadership and communication skills: With the ability to work cross‑functionally and independently own initiatives Hands‑on engineering mindset: This role requires daily technical involvement, not just design oversight Cloud cost governance and optimization experience: Including billing visibility and efficiency improvementsDescriptionCloud & Platform Architect (Google Cloud Platform‑Focused):Hands‑on Cloud & Platform Architect to own and evolve its cloud and hybrid infrastructure as the organization transitions from AWS to Google Cloud Platform (Google Cloud Platform). This role will act as the technical authority and architectural owner for cloud platforms, ensuring scalable, secure, and cost‑effective solutions while partnering closely with infrastructure, networking, cybersecurity, and data teams. The ideal candidate combines deep technical expertise with strong communication skills and thrives in an environment with high autonomy and low red tape.Comparable / Applicable Job Titles Cloud Architect (Google Cloud Platform) Platform Architect Senior Cloud Infrastructure Architect Hybrid Cloud Architect Cloud Solutions ArchitectTop Required Skills & Experience (Most Critical) Google Cloud Platform (Google Cloud Platform) architecture expertise, with hands‑on experience designing, operating, and optimizing cloud infrastructure Hybrid infrastructure and networking experience, including on‑prem connectivity, routing, VPNs/tunnels, DNS, and identity integration Strong change leadership and communication skills, with the ability to work cross‑functionally and independently own initiatives Hands‑on engineering mindset — this role requires daily technical involvement, not just design oversight Cloud cost governance and optimization experience, including billing visibility and efficiency improvementsKey ResponsibilitiesProject Migration from AWS to Google Cloud Platform in next 2 years (AWS License ends) Serve as the primary architect and technical owner for cloud and platform infrastructure across Google Cloud Platform (primary), AWS (legacy), and limited Azure Own and mature the Google Cloud Platform environment, supporting current data lake initiatives and upcoming large‑scale AWS‑to‑Google Cloud Platform migrations Act as the technical gatekeeper for new platforms, tools, and services, ensuring architectural fit, security, and cost effectiveness Lead and support cloud migration initiatives, coordinating with implementation partners while retaining architectural ownershipOversee And Guide Cloud networking, DNS, certificates, and hybrid connectivity Identity and access management (SSO, RBAC) Monitoring, patching, and operational readinessPartner Closely With Network, server, cybersecurity, and data/analytics teams Managed service providers (network, backup/DR, and future services) Support and evolve CI/CD and automation practices, including GitHub Enterprise–based deployments Provide architectural input for data platforms, analytics, and AI initiatives Proactively identify and drive improvements in tooling, automation, reliability, cost, and operating modelRequired Skills, Tools & TechnologiesCloud & Infrastructure: Google Cloud Platform (primary) Amazon Web Services (legacy / migration source) Hybrid cloud and on‑prem infrastructure Windows‑centric environments (Windows Server, SQL Server) Identity and access management (SSO, RBAC)Networking & Platform VPC design, subnetting, and routing VPNs, tunnels, DNS, public/private connectivity Platform governance and architectural standardsAutomation & DevOps GitHub Enterprise CI/CD pipelines (cloud‑native or integrated) Infrastructure automation and scripting PowerShell (strongly preferred) Python (for cross‑cloud automation and tooling)Operations & Governance Cloud cost management and optimization Monitoring and operational ownership Change management and documentation Vendor and managed‑service coordinationSoft Skills & Working Style Strong verbal and written communication skills Ability to own outcomes with minimal direction Proactive problem‑solver who raises risks and proposes solutions Comfortable operating in ambiguity and evolving environments Open to and supportive of AI‑driven initiatives and innovation