Cloud Security Engineer

The Senior Cloud Security Engineer identifies and mitigates cloud vulnerabilities, monitors environments for breaches, responds to incidents, assesses security weaknesses, and strengthens cloud security controls. The role develops risk management programs, conducts gap analyses, optimizes cloud security tools, improves monitoring and response capabilities, tracks emerging threats, and advises stakeholders on security policies and standards. The position supports the National Science Foundation and requires an active Public Trust clearance., Cherokee Federal is seeking a Senior Cloud Security Engineer to support cloud security operations for the U.S. National Science Foundation. This role identifies and mitigates vulnerabilities in cloud environments, monitors for security breaches, responds to incidents, and assesses cloud infrastructure. The engineer will use cloud security expertise and critical thinking to strengthen security controls, protocols, and risk management practices., Includes the following:

• Identify, analyze, and mitigate vulnerabilities and configuration issues in cloud-based systems.

• Monitor cloud environments for security breaches and respond to incidents to minimize their impact.

• Assess cloud systems, identify security weaknesses, and recommend corrective actions.

• Develop, implement, and update cloud security protocols and procedures.

• Conduct gap analyses and recommend improvements to security controls and risk management processes.

• Develop and implement risk management programs to strengthen the security of cloud assets.

• Use and optimize cloud security tools to detect, prevent, and respond to threats.

• Improve monitoring and response capabilities.

• Work with cross-functional teams to align security measures with business objectives and industry best practices.

• Advise internal stakeholders on cloud security policies, procedures, and standards.

• Track emerging cloud security threats, vulnerabilities, and practices, and adapt security measures accordingly.

• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

• At least eight years of cybersecurity experience, including at least three years focused on cloud security and vulnerability management.

• In-depth knowledge of cloud infrastructure, such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud, and cloud security tools, such as AWS GuardDuty or Prisma Cloud Compute.

• Experience in security incident response, risk management, and vulnerability mitigation in cloud environments.

• Strong analytical skills, including the ability to conduct gap analyses and develop actionable plans to address security weaknesses.

• This position requires an active Public Trust clearance.

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer; may occasionally require standing or moving about the office for extended periods.

• Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field.

• Relevant certification, such as AWS Certified Security - Specialty, Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer Associate, or CISSP.

• Experience with cloud-native security tools and security information and event management (SIEM) solutions for cloud environments.

• Knowledge of risk management frameworks and compliance standards, such as NIST and ISO 27001.

• Strong communication and problem-solving skills, including the ability to work across teams and explain technical concepts to nontechnical stakeholders.

Starting Salary Range for Senior Cloud Security Engineer: $160,000 - $165,000

Benefits That Set Us Apart

When considering your next opportunity, compensation is only part of the picture. We offer a benefits package designed to invest in your future and support your life outside of work.

Highlights include:

• Up to a 6% 401(k) company match to help you build long-term financial security

• Paid time off as part of our comprehensive benefits package, so you have the flexibility to rest, recharge, and enjoy what matters most

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus prescription drug coverage

• Basic life and AD&D insurance, with supplemental life options

• Short-term and long-term disability coverage

• Paid holidays

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) options

• Professional development, training, and certification support

• Voluntary benefits including accident, critical illness, and identity theft protection

Because taking care of our employees isn’t just a promise, it’s part of who we are., For applicants located in Colorado, New York, California, Washington, Illinois, Hawaii, Massachusetts, or other states with pay transparency requirements: the estimated annual salary range for this position is $160,000 - $165,000. Actual compensation varies based on qualifications, experience, and location.

Behind every government mission stands skilled, mission-driven talent: people whose expertise and dedication turn complex challenges into successful outcomes. Criterion Systems, part of Cherokee Federal, the federal contracting division of Cherokee Nation Businesses, is that team. We modernize aging systems, deliver care where it’s needed most, and keep missions supplied, staffed, and moving across defense, intelligence, and civilian agencies. For more than 60 federal clients, we take on the work others won’t, and deliver where it counts. If that’s the kind of work you’re looking for, you’ve found your team. Learn more at cherokee-federal.com.