Senior Azure Cloud Engineer

LRS Consulting Services is seeking a Senior Azure Cloud Engineer for a direct hire opportunity with a growing financial services organization in Lake Forest, IL. This role leads the design, optimization, and evolution of Azure and hybrid infrastructure platforms. You’ll be the go-to expert for Azure networking, cloud architecture, automation, and hybrid connectivity, driving cloud modernization initiatives, influencing technology strategy, and building scalable solutions that balance performance, security, reliability, and cost efficiency. Local candidates only., * Lead the design and management of Azure networking, hybrid cloud connectivity, and cloud infrastructure architecture

• Drive Azure modernization, cloud migrations, and platform improvement initiatives
• Automate infrastructure using PowerShell, Terraform, Bicep, ARM templates, and Azure Automation
• Design secure, resilient solutions that integrate Azure with on-premises systems, Microsoft Entra ID, Microsoft 365, and enterprise applications
• Optimize cloud performance, availability, scalability, and cost management
• Partner with Information Security to support Zero Trust and cloud security best practices
• Mentor team members and serve as a trusted technical advisor across the organization
• Evaluate emerging technologies including AI, Azure OpenAI, intelligent automation, IoT, and cloud-native services and recommend where they fit the environment

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field
• 8+ years of infrastructure, network, systems, or cloud engineering experience
• 5+ years of hands-on Microsoft Azure experience
• Demonstrated expertise in Azure networking, routing, DNS, VPNs, hybrid connectivity, and cloud architecture
• Strong experience with infrastructure automation and Infrastructure as Code (IaC)
• Ability to lead complex technical initiatives and influence cloud strategy
• Must be located in the Northern Illinois or Southeast Wisconsin area and willing to work onsite in Lake Forest, IL 3 days per week
• Must have permanent authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship
• Third-party candidates will not be considered for this position.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a financial services or regulated environment
• Azure Network Engineer Associate certification
• Azure Solutions Architect Expert certification
• Azure Administrator Associate certification
• ITIL Foundation certification

The base range for this salaried position is $115,000 - $180,000, depending on experience. Our pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hires of this position across all U.S. locations. Individual compensation is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.