Azure Cloud Architect

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking an Azure Cloud/Systems Architect to support a client in the government and defense technology sector by designing, securing, and maintaining highly controlled enclave environments. The Cloud/Systems Architect role is ideal for a senior infrastructure and security professional with deep experience in Azure, enclave architecture, and secure government or hybrid cloud environments. This position is located in Springfield, VA and is 100% on site.

ACTIVE TS/SCI REQUIRED

Responsibilities of the Cloud/Systems Architect:

* Design and architect enclave infrastructure to meet strict security and operational requirements.

* Develop and maintain technical documentation, runbooks, SOPs, and security implementation guides for Tier 3 and Tier 2 teams.

* Implement and enforce security controls and best practices within enclave environments.

* Collaborate closely with networking, security, and compliance teams to enhance infrastructure security and resilience.

* Conduct infrastructure and security risk assessments and recommend architectural, configuration, and operational improvements.

* Provide strategic IT support and guidance for secure enclave operations.

* Develop Azure architecture diagrams and maintain infrastructure-as-code artifacts.

Qualifications of the Cloud/Systems Architect:

* Active Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility required.

* Bachelor's or Master's degree in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, or a related field (preferred).

* 8+ years of experience in enclave architecture, security engineering, or IT infrastructure management.

* At least six months of hands-on experience managing production Azure services, including compute, networking, storage, and identity.

* Strong experience with Azure subscriptions, resource groups, and Azure Active Directory (Entra ).

* Understanding of networking fundamentals including TCP/IP, DNS, VPNs, and firewall configurations.

* Experience creating and managing virtual machines, containers, and Azure storage accounts.

* Proficiency in Power Shell scripting and familiarity with Azure CLI for resource management.

* 5+ years of technical writing experience supporting cloud-based or security-focused systems.

* Working knowledge of Azure Resource Manager, Bicep, and/or Terraform templates.

* Experience supporting hybrid or government cloud environments, including Azure Government and on-premises integrations.

* Strong understanding of cloud security principles such as IAM, network security, encryption, and Zero Trust architectures.

* Ability to clearly communicate complex security concepts to both technical teams and non-technical stakeholders, including leadership and auditors.

* Required certifications:
CompTIA Security+ and AZ-104 (Microsoft Azure Administrator), or a higher-level Microsoft certification in lieu of AZ-104. Candidates not currently certified must obtain required certifications within six months of hire.

Compensation for the Cloud/Systems Architect includes:

* Salary range: $170,000 - $210,000 (depending on experience)

* Full benefits including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), PTO, paid holidays, and sick leave as required by law

This job opens for applications on 05/28/2026. Applications for this job will be accepted for at least 30 days from the posting date.

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