Azure Cloud Architect - W2 only - Remote

Job Summary: We are seeking an experienced Azure Cloud Architect to design, implement, and optimize scalable, secure, and highly available cloud solutions on Microsoft Azure. The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in cloud architecture, migration strategies, infrastructure automation, security, and enterprise-scale cloud transformations.

Key Responsibilities:

Design and implement scalable Azure cloud architectures aligned with business requirements.

Lead cloud migration initiatives from on-premises or other cloud platforms to Azure.

Develop cloud governance frameworks, security policies, and best practices.

Architect high availability, disaster recovery, and business continuity solutions.

Implement Infrastructure as Code (IaC) using Terraform, ARM templates, or Bicep. Collaborate with DevOps teams to build CI/CD pipelines and automate deployments.

Optimize cloud performance, cost management, and resource utilization.

Ensure cloud environments comply with security and compliance standards.

Provide technical leadership and mentorship to engineering teams.

Work closely with stakeholders to define cloud strategies and roadmaps.

8+ years of IT experience with 4+ years focused on Azure architecture.

Strong expertise in Azure services including Compute, Networking, Storage, Security, and Identity Management.

Hands-on experience with Azure Landing Zones and enterprise cloud frameworks.

Experience with Kubernetes (AKS), Docker, and containerized workloads.

Strong knowledge of Azure DevOps, CI/CD pipelines, and automation tools.

Experience with Terraform, ARM templates, PowerShell, or scripting languages.

Knowledge of security frameworks, governance, and compliance standards.

Experience with hybrid cloud and multi-cloud environments is preferred.

Azure certifications such as AZ-305 or Azure Solutions Architect Expert preferred.

Experience with FinOps and cloud cost optimization.

Familiarity with networking concepts including VPN, ExpressRoute, DNS, and Load Balancers.

Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.