Cloud Specialist (SME)

Northramp LLC•Washington, DC

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

Northramp is seeking a Cloud Specialist (SME) to join the team supporting the client's Cloud BPA Bridge program — a mission-critical effort to consolidate, modernize, and operate the client's enterprise cloud services across IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS environments under FedRAMP High authorization. You will serve as the senior technical authority for cloud computing initiatives supporting the client — providing strategic guidance, technical expertise, and best practices across AWS, Azure, and GCP. The role shapes cloud strategy, mentors technical teams, and ensures the cloud infrastructure supports the client's mission objectives effectively and securely. This role is part of Northramp's integrated delivery model, where engineers and advisors work as one team to bring sound judgment, disciplined execution, and deep federal experience to high-stakes modernization programs.

Requirements

10+ years of progressive, hands-on experience in cloud computing across AWS, Azure, and GCP, including architecture, security, and compliance.
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Information Systems Management, or a related technical field. Significant professional experience and achievements may be considered in lieu of a formal degree.
Demonstrated expertise across cloud computing environments, with deep knowledge of cloud architecture, security, and compliance frameworks on AWS, Azure, and GCP.
Advanced proficiency with Infrastructure as Code (IaC) tools and practices (Terraform, Ansible, Python).
Strong foundation in Agile, Scrum, and DevOps culture; ability to implement continuous improvement processes.
Expertise in CI/CD pipeline architecture, software development practices, and version control systems.
In-depth understanding of networking principles, cloud security protocols, and secure-deployment best practices.
Exceptional problem-solving skills; able to lead resolution of complex technical issues.
Outstanding leadership, communication, and mentorship; ability to influence technical decisions and foster a culture of technical excellence.
U.S. Citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a DHS suitability / Public Trust clearance.

Nice To Haves

Advanced or specialized AWS, Azure, and GCP certifications.
Security certifications such as CISSP, CCSP, or Security+.
Federal cloud program experience.
Active Public Trust or higher clearance.

Responsibilities

Serve as the go-to expert for cloud initiatives across the client, offering strategic insight and technical guidance on complex architectures and deployments across AWS, Azure, and GCP.
Develop and refine Infrastructure as Code (IaC) practices using Terraform, Ansible, and Python, ensuring scalable, reliable, and efficient management of cloud resources.
Lead technical discussions with Cloud Service Providers (CSPs) to influence product roadmaps, resolve high-level issues, and establish best practices for cloud adoption.
Provide expert-level support in the design and optimization of cloud infrastructure for scalability, performance, and security.
Lead the creation and management of custom OS and application images aligned with organizational standards.
Drive automation of system and application configurations to streamline deployment and improve operational efficiency.
Lead security and compliance audits; develop and implement strategies for FedRAMP High, FISMA, NIST 800-53, and DHS 4300A adherence.
Mentor and develop technical teams; share knowledge and best practices to elevate cloud competencies across the program.
Conduct analyses of system performance and utilization; recommend architectural and operational improvements aligned to mission objectives.
Oversee critical issue resolution and provide escalation support for complex operational challenges.
Direct research and evaluation of emerging cloud technologies, tools, and methodologies; recommend adoption where appropriate.