Cloud Architect

Location: McLean, Virginia, United States

Department: Technical Solutions

Workplace: on_site

Description

TLA is seeking a skilled and strategic Cloud Architect to design, implement, and manage our organization's cloud computing strategy. This role involves overseeing cloud adoption plans, application design, and management and monitoring of cloud infrastructure across public, private, and hybrid cloud environments. The ideal candidate will ensure that our cloud systems are scalable, secure, cost-effective, and aligned with overall business objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

·         Design & Architecture: Design secure, high-performing, and cost-optimized cloud architectures that meet complex business requirements and technical needs.

·         Strategy & Planning: Develop comprehensive cloud strategies, adoption plans, and migration roadmaps, translating business objectives into technical solutions.

·         Implementation & Migration: Lead and support cloud migration efforts for large, multi-tier applications and systems from on-premises infrastructure to the cloud.

·         Security & Compliance: Implement and enforce robust security controls, encryption mechanisms, access control policies, and ensure compliance with industry regulations (e.g., CGPR, HIPAA, ISO standards). 

·         Optimization & Monitoring: Continuously monitor the performance, availability, and cost efficiency of cloud environments, implementing performance enhancements and cost-saving measures. 

·         Collaboration & Leadership: Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including DevOps engineers, developers, and security professionals, and provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior staff.

·          Documentation: Create and maintain detailed architectural documentation, diagrams, standards for cloud environments.

Innovation: Stay current with emerging cloud technologies, trends, and best practices, evaluating and recommending new services for organizational adoption.

Requirements

Required Skills and Experience:

·         Education: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field; an advanced degree is a plus.

·         Experience: Minimum of 5+ years of hands-on experience in designing and implementing cloud solutions, with experience in technical operations and software development a plus.

·         Cloud Platforms: Expert-level knowledge of at least one major cloud platform (AWS, Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud Platform) and a strong understanding of hybrid cloud environments.

·         Technical Skills:

o   Deep understanding of network (TCP/IP, DNS, VPNs, firewalls), virtualization, and storage systems.

o   Proficiency with Infrastructure as Code (IaC) tools (e.g., Terraform, AWS CloudFormation, Azure Resource Manager).

o   Experience with containerization and orchestration technologies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes).

o   Familiarity with scripting/programming languages (e.g., Python, Bash, PowerShell, Java) for automation.

o   Knowledge of DevOps practices and CI/CD pipelines.

·         Soft Skills:

o   Exceptional problem-solving and analytical abilities.

o   Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain complex concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

o   Proven leadership skills with the ability to manage projects and foster cross-team collaboration

Preferred Certifications and Qualifications:

·         AWS: AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Professional (or Associate)

·         Microsoft Azure: Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert

·         Google Cloud: Google Cloud Certified Professional Cloud Architect

·         Security: Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) or Certificate of Cloud Security Knowledge (CCSK)

·         Vendor Neutral: CompTIA Cloud+

Benefits

At TLA, we build solutions that matter—supporting national security missions through technology innovation, collaboration, and excellence. Our team is passionate about leveraging modern technologies to deliver impactful, mission-focused outcomes for our customers.

We offer a competitive and comprehensive benefits package including:

• Competitive salary and performance bonuses
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Paid time off and federal holidays
• 401(k) with company match
• Education and certification reimbursement
• Training and professional development opportunities
• Employee referral bonuses and team events

TLA is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.