Senior DoW Cloud Architect

We are seeking a Senior Cloud Architect with deep expertise in Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure, and experience supporting U.S. Air Force or DoW cloud environments, to lead the design, integration, and governance of secure, scalable cloud solutions within a complex Digital Depot ecosystem. This role will operate at both strategic and implementation levels, ensuring cloud architectures align with enterprise, network, and cybersecurity requirements across hybrid and partner-connected environments., * Lead cloud architecture design and governance across AWS, Azure, and hybrid DoD environments, ensuring alignment with enterprise architecture and client objectives

• Define and implement cloud strategies that support system interoperability, data integration, and mission workflows across distributed and partner-connected environments
• Design secure hybrid architectures integrating on-premises systems, cloud platforms, and external partners (e.g., Air Force systems, DLA, other DoD services)
• Ensure alignment with enterprise architecture standards, including data, application, and integration patterns, and support architecture review processes
• Implement and enforce Zero Trust principles across cloud and network architectures, including identity, segmentation, and secure data exchange
• Support RMF and ATO processes, including security control implementation, documentation, and continuous monitoring strategies
• Lead cloud integration efforts, ensuring cloud platforms support end-to-end data flows, system interoperability, and mission applications
• Establish and implement Infrastructure as Code (IaC) and automation practices (Terraform, CloudFormation, ARM/Bicep) aligned with DevSecOps pipelines
• Integrate security into DevSecOps pipelines, including automated scanning, compliance validation, and continuous authorization (cATO) practices
• Define cloud networking architectures, including connectivity, routing, segmentation, and performance optimization across hybrid environments
• Develop and maintain architecture artifacts and documentation, supporting enterprise visibility and alignment (e.g., system diagrams, data flows, interface definitions)
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship, guiding junior engineers and architects and supporting cross-functional teams

Do you have what it takes? Are you driven to implement creative solutions that unravel complex and ever-changing challenges? We value passion, curiosity, and perseverance with an ability to communicate ideas and results to diverse audiences. We look for people who thrive in collaborative and independent assignments, have the aptitude to learn new data quickly, and who are willing to mentor junior team members.

• 10+ years of IT experience, including 5+ years in cloud architecture roles
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field (Master’s preferred)
• Must have or be eligible to obtain a Secret Clearance (U.S. Citizenship required)
• Ability to pass required background screening and drug testing
• Strong expertise in AWS and Azure, including GovCloud, IL environments, or DoD-authorized regions
• Experience designing hybrid cloud architectures integrating on-premises, cloud, and partner systems
• Deep understanding of DoD cybersecurity frameworks, including RMF, NIST 800-53, and Zero Trust Architecture
• Experience supporting ATO processes and continuous monitoring (cATO preferred)
• Proficiency with Infrastructure as Code (Terraform, CloudFormation, ARM/Bicep)
• Experience with DevSecOps practices, CI/CD pipelines, and automated security controls
• Strong knowledge of cloud networking, including VPC/VNet design, routing (BGP), segmentation, and secure connectivity
• Experience with containerization and orchestration (Docker, Kubernetes)
• Understanding of data integration patterns, APIs, and enterprise system interoperability
• Experience working in regulated DoD or Air Force environments (Cloud One, Platform One, or similar preferred)
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and system integration skills
• Excellent communication skills, with ability to interface with technical teams, leadership, and external partners
• Demonstrated experience in senior or lead architecture positions supporting complex enterprise environments
• Experience with U.S. Air Force or DoD cloud environments strongly preferred
• Relevant cloud certifications preferred (e.g., AWS Solutions Architect Professional, Azure Solutions Architect Expert)

Why choose us? We invest in our employees in all aspects of their life and we value family. We offer market-competitive salary, a generous PTO package, and comprehensive medical, dental, vision and life insurance plans. We also offer 401K, short/long-term disability insurance, a fun and engaging culture, and training opportunities to keep you up to speed on the latest technologies.

At Illumination Works, we know data, and we should, we’ve been doing it since we started in 2006! We specialize in everything data from big data to data science, data engineering, software engineering, and cloud design. We are a trusted technology partner in user-centered digital transformation-delivering impactful business results to clients. We partner with customers to solve their unique technology and data challenges and stay on top of modern technologies and advancements leveraging our Innovation Lab. Check out our website to learn more at www.ilwllc.com .