Role:​ ​​​​​Azure Cloud Architect Location:​ ​​Lansing,MI​ ( only locals)

Role:​ ​​​​​Azure Cloud Architect

Location:​ ​​Lansing,MI​ ( only locals)

Duration: Long Term

Note: Must have 12+ years experience

Job Description

We are seeking a Cloud Architect to support the Michigan Center for Educational Performance and Information (CEPI). The ideal candidate will lead the design, development, and integration of cloud-based applications, ensuring that solutions align with business goals, security policies, and enterprise architecture standards. The Cloud Architect will work closely with technical teams, state agencies, and external vendors to drive cloud modernization and optimize IT infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities1. Cloud Architecture & System Design

• Develop and manage enterprise-level cloud application architecture to support IT modernization initiatives.
• Design scalable, secure, and cost-effective cloud solutions that integrate with COTS packages, SaaS, Web Services, and state/federal applications.
• Lead the migration to a service-based architecture, ensuring compliance with DTMB strategic plans and best practices.
• Define and manage cloud application design methodologies and enforce best practices in Microsoft Azure.
• Ensure proper security controls, compliance policies, and governance are implemented in cloud environments.

2. Application Development & Integration

• Oversee the design, validation, and integration of application components, APIs, and services.
• Ensure seamless interoperability between cloud applications, databases, and middleware.
• Develop and maintain reference models, templates, and best practices for cloud application design.
• Define and implement Infrastructure as Code (IaC) strategies to automate cloud provisioning and management.
• Support microservices-based architecture for distributed applications.

3. Technical Leadership & Collaboration

• Serve as the subject matter expert (SME) for cloud solutions, providing technical guidance and mentorship to teams.
• Collaborate with developers, database administrators, security teams, and enterprise architects to ensure alignment with business goals and technical standards.
• Work with DTMB Enterprise Architecture and Security teams to develop cloud security and compliance frameworks.
• Participate in enterprise solution assessments, roadmaps, and technical reviews.
• Troubleshoot complex cloud application and infrastructure issues and implement performance optimization strategies.

4. Compliance, Documentation, and Reporting

• Document and maintain cloud application architectures, integration strategies, and security policies.
• Ensure compliance with federal/state regulations, security guidelines, and enterprise governance.
• Provide regular reports, presentations, and recommendations to management and stakeholders.

Required Skills & ExperienceTechnical Expertise

• 12+ years of experience in Cloud Architecture, Application Development, and IT System Integration.
• Extensive experience with Microsoft Azure, including Azure Functions, Azure Active Directory, SQL Database, and Storage Services.
• Proficiency in .NET, HTML, XML, SQL, SOAP, REST, PowerShell, and IaC tools (Terraform, ARM templates).
• Hands-on experience with microservices architecture, distributed applications, and observability/tracing.
• Strong knowledge of relational databases (MySQL, SQL Server) and cloud-native database services.
• Experience integrating COTS solutions, SaaS platforms, and enterprise applications.
• Knowledge of secure coding, authentication, authorization, and cybersecurity best practices.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Visio and other architecture documentation tools.

Soft Skills

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to effectively communicate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Ability to own work items and drive projects independently with minimal supervision.
• Experience working in high-stress environments, managing multiple priorities and deadlines.