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.

• 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 ID).

• 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 PowerShell 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.

• 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