Principal Kubernetes Solutions Architect

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A Principal Kubernetes Solutions Architect will design, deploy, and automate Kubernetes‑based platforms. This leadership role focuses on architecting secure, scalable, and highly available container orchestration environments to support business‑critical workloads. The ideal candidate excels at building robust Kubernetes clusters and enabling development teams to maximize platform capabilities.

• Architect, build, and maintain Kubernetes clusters with an emphasis on scalability, reliability, and security, utilizing best practices for cluster lifecycle management.
• Manage core Kubernetes services, including networking, storage, workload scheduling, and RBAC for access control.
• Oversee containerized workloads, ensuring high availability, efficient scaling, and robust security for multi‑tenant environments.
• Design, implement, and manage Kubernetes Operators to automate operational tasks and lifecycle management of complex applications.
• Drive Infrastructure as Code (IaC) initiatives using tools like Terraform to automate Kubernetes resource provisioning.
• Design, implement, and optimize CI/CD pipelines for containerized applications, embedding security controls throughout the pipeline.
• Build custom automation tools and scripts (Python, Go, Bash) to enhance Kubernetes operations and minimize manual tasks, leveraging APIs for integration.
• Serve as the Kubernetes subject‑matter expert, mentoring development teams and guiding optimal use of container orchestration technologies.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to assess new Kubernetes‑native solutions and recommend enhancements to platform efficiency and capabilities.
• Promote best practices in Git workflows and the use of AI tools to accelerate the development and troubleshooting of container‑based applications.
• Break down large projects into actionable tasks for junior team members.

• 10 years of relevant experience in any of the following domains:
• Advanced proficiency with Infrastructure as Code (IaC), especially Terraform, including complex module usage.
• Significant experience architecting, deploying, and managing Kubernetes clusters (Amazon EKS or equivalent).
• Strong command of Kubernetes RBAC, security policies, and best practices.
• Demonstrated experience designing, building, and maintaining automated CI/CD pipelines for containerized workloads.
• Thorough understanding of Kubernetes networking, Linux/Unix systems, and platform security.
• Proficiency with Git and Git Ops workflows for Kubernetes resource management.
• Must hold and maintain DoD 8140 certifications.

• Experience with VMware vSphere or Open Shift in hybrid or private cloud contexts.
• Proven experience building custom Kubernetes operators.
• Familiarity with configuration management tools (e.g., Ansible).
• Exposure to public cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and Dev Ops methodologies.
• Advanced programming skills in Python, Go, or JavaScript/Type Script.
• Understanding of authentication protocols including OIDC, OAuth2, LDAP, and SAML.
• Contributions to open‑source Kubernetes or Dev Ops projects.

• Kubernetes certifications such as Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA), Certified Kubernetes Application Developer (CKAD), Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist (CKS), and Kubestronaut.

An active TS/SCI federal security clearance is required.