The AWS Architect will be responsible for providing technical support, operational oversight, and strategic implementation for cloud-based systems hosted within Amazon Web Services (AWS). The role includes managing CI/CD pipelines, optimizing system performance, ensuring compliance with IT security standards, and supporting development teams. This position requires a candidate with a strong understanding of AWS services, DevOps practices, and IT security protocols, as well as excellent problem-solving and communication skills.

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Support:

• Provide technical support for production and non-production systems hosted in AWS.

• Monitor system performance, security logs, and error logs to ensure operational readiness and compliance.

• Manage system backups and implement configuration changes to optimize performance.

CI/CD Management:

• Operate and maintain CI/CD systems using tools like Jenkins, Kubernetes, Docker Swarm, and GitLab.

• Manage AWS Key Management System (KMS) for key rotation and data encryption.

Security and Compliance:

• Proactively ensure compliance with IT security directives and implement necessary system patches.

• Respond to and resolve security incidents and coordinate with stakeholders for resolution.

Development and Integration Support:

• Collaborate with development teams to integrate new systems and applications into the cloud environment.

• Support the installation and configuration of certificates, licenses, and new software.

Documentation and Communication:

• Maintain up-to-date documentation on system configurations, operational procedures, and CI/CD systems.

• Provide clear and detailed reports during weekly stand-up meetings and regular updates to stakeholders.

Strategic Planning Support:

• Identify and implement opportunities for cost optimization and system scalability.

• Support planning and execution of cloud migration projects or the integration of additional systems.

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Support:

• Provide technical support for production and non-production systems hosted in AWS.

• Monitor system performance, security logs, and error logs to ensure operational readiness and compliance.

• Manage system backups and implement configuration changes to optimize performance.

   

CI/CD Management:

• Operate and maintain CI/CD systems using tools like Jenkins, Kubernetes, Docker Swarm, and GitLab.

• Manage AWS Key Management System (KMS) for key rotation and data encryption.

Security and Compliance:

• Proactively ensure compliance with IT security directives and implement necessary system patches.

• Respond to and resolve security incidents and coordinate with stakeholders for resolution.

Development and Integration Support:

• Collaborate with development teams to integrate new systems and applications into the cloud environment.

• Support the installation and configuration of certificates, licenses, and new software.

Documentation and Communication:

• Maintain up-to-date documentation on system configurations, operational procedures, and CI/CD systems.

• Provide clear and detailed reports during weekly stand-up meetings and regular updates to stakeholders.

Strategic Planning:

• Identify and implement opportunities for cost optimization and system scalability.

• Support planning and execution of cloud migration projects or the integration of additional systems.

Must-Have Qualifications:

Experience: Minimum of 5 years in cloud architecture and AWS operational support.

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in AWS services (EC2, S3, RDS, IAM, etc.).
• Strong understanding of DevOps tools (Jenkins, Git, Docker, Kubernetes).
• Experience with CI/CD pipelines and key management systems.
• Familiarity with IT security frameworks (e.g., NIST SP 800-53) and patch management.
• Must have worked in an Agile environment and participated in Agile ceremonies. 

Certifications: AWS Certified Solutions Architect (Associate/Professional) or equivalent.

Other Requirements:

• Must be a U.S. citizen or legal U.S. resident with 3 years of continuous residency.
• Ability to pass a federal government background check.

Preferred Qualifications:

Technical Expertise:

• Knowledge of Terraform scripts for infrastructure as code.
• Experience with Agile project management and task management tools.
• Familiarity with disaster recovery planning and cloud cost management.
• Architecture and configurational understanding of applications like PICS2, Apache SOLR (or be able to research on the fly) 

Soft Skills:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills for effective stakeholder interaction.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Problem-solving mindset and proactive approach to identifying risks and proposing solutions.
• Flexibility to adapt to evolving project requirements and priorities.