Cloud and Network Architect

Title: Cloud and Network Architect
Location: Hybrid
Duration: Direct Hire
Job Description:

Looking for an experienced Cloud/Network Architect with a strong background in both on-premises and cloud infrastructure management. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with Azure cloud services and advanced networking engineering, particularly with Juniper, Aruba, and Fortinet technologies. This role will involve designing, implementing, and maintaining robust, scalable, and secure network and cloud architectures that support our business objectives in a rapidly changing business environment. This position requires a strong ability to multi-task in an environment of constantly changing priorities.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES:

Design and implement hybrid cloud solutions integrating on-premises infrastructure with cloud services.
Manage and optimize on-premises and Azure cloud environments, ensuring scalability, security, and cost-efficiency.
Architect and oversee complex network solutions, including LAN/WAN, data center, and enterprise wireless networks.
Assist in developing, adhering to, and maintaining network security policies and procedures, leveraging Fortinet, Juniper, and Aruba technologies.
Collaborate with IT teams to ensure seamless integration of cloud and network services.
Conduct network capacity planning and performance analysis.
Develop detailed IT roadmaps that outline the planned initiatives, timelines, and milestones for technology projects and infrastructure improvements.
Identify opportunities for technological innovation and continuous improvement to keep the organization at the forefront of industry advancements.
Evaluate emerging technologies, including AI (Artificial Intelligence), and trends to determine their potential impact on the organization and incorporate relevant innovations into the IT strategy and roadmap.
Provide technical leadership and mentorship to the team (assist with upskilling).
Communicate effectively to partners and senior leadership with regards to projects, requests, and recovery efforts.
Work with external vendors and service providers to procure hardware, software, and services. This includes negotiating contracts and managing vendor relationships.
Perform other duties as assigned.

WHAT YOU NEED TO SUCCEED (Minimum Qualifications):

Minimum of 7 years of experience in network engineering and cloud architecture.
Proven experience with Azure cloud services; certification preferred (e.g., Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert).
In-depth knowledge of Active Directory, Microsoft Entra (Azure Active Directory), servers, virtualization (VMWare, Nutanix, Citrix), networking protocols, security principles, cloud technologies (e.g., Azure, AWS, Microsoft 365) and endpoint management.
Proficient in network design and architecture, including VLANs, VPNs, firewalls, routing, and switching.
Strong understanding of network security best practices and technologies.
Advanced networking experience with Juniper, Aruba, and Fortinet technologies. Relevant certifications such as CCNP, JNCIE, or Fortinet NSE are highly desirable.
Proficiency in scripting and automation
Create and maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation of configurations, procedures, and changes to ensure that the infrastructure remains well-documented and easy to manage.
Ability to work on complex assignments where considerable judgment and initiative are required.
Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work under pressure.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
Education – bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Technology, or a related field (or equivalent work experience). Master’s degree preferred.

Travel – As necessary, up to 20%

Other Licenses/Certificates – AWS, GCP, ITIL, Certified Scrum Master (CSM), PMP or similar desired

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL DEMANDS:

The mental and physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an individual to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. While performing this job the employee is frequently required to sit, talk and or hear, and or use hands, handle or touch objects, tools or controls. The employee is occasionally required to stand, and or walk. The employee is required to travel (driving and air travel) to different facilities. The employee must occasionally lift and or move objects up to 10 pounds, such as a laptop or products. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to focus. The mental and physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an individual to successfully perform the essential functions of this position.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT:

This position is primarily in an office setting, with an occasional need to be in our warehouse and distribution facilities where there could be varying temperatures. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an individual encounters while performing the essential functions of this position.