Azure Cloud Engineer, Subject Matter Expert

Independent Software, Inc.; Columbia (MD); On-site; USD 140,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

Independent Software, Inc. seeks a Subject Matter Expert (SME) Azure Cloud Engineer to serve as the organization’s leading authority on Microsoft Azure and Microsoft 365 cloud solutions.

You will drive cloud strategy, oversee transformation initiatives, and ensure secure, scalable, and compliant cloud environments supporting mission-critical operations. You will collaborate with technical teams and leadership to align cloud solutions with business objectives, guide architecture decisions, and

Qualifications

• Microsoft Azure certification required.
• Active TS SCI with Polygraph is required.
• Experience leading enterprise cloud transformations.
• Security, governance, and compliance experience in Azure/M365.

Responsibilities

• Define enterprise-wide cloud strategies aligning tech with business goals.
• Lead cloud transformation projects from planning to ongoing support.
• Architect secure Azure environments using AKS, Synapse, Logic Apps, and Sentinel.
• Direct Microsoft 365 migrations including cross-tenant and hybrid setups.
• Implement Zero Trust, DLP, and Purview compliance solutions.
• Represent cloud engineering in audits and executive discussions.

Skills

Cloud strategy

Azure architecture

Zero Trust

AKS

M365 migrations

Security governance

Audits

Executive collaboration

Education

Microsoft Azure Certification

Tools

Azure AKS

Azure Synapse

Logic Apps

Microsoft Sentinel

Microsoft Purview

Job description

What You Will Do:

As a Subject Matter Expert (SME) Azure Cloud Engineer at Independent Software, you will serve as the organization’s leading technical authority on Microsoft Azure and Microsoft 365 cloud solutions. You will provide strategic direction, oversee enterprise-wide cloud transformation initiatives, and ensure secure, scalable, and compliant cloud environments supporting mission-critical operations.

You will work closely with technical teams and organizational leadership to:

• Develop cloud strategies that align technology solutions with business and operational objectives.
• Lead complex cloud transformation and modernization initiatives from planning through implementation and ongoing support.
• Provide expert guidance on cloud architecture, security, governance, and emerging technologies.
• Establish technical standards and represent cloud engineering during audits, technical reviews, and executive-level discussions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Define enterprise-wide cloud strategies encompassing Azure infrastructure, Microsoft 365 integration, and operational resilience.
• Lead full lifecycle cloud transformation initiatives, including planning, architecture, implementation, and sustainment.
• Architect secure Azure environments using advanced services such as Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS), Azure Synapse, Logic Apps, and Microsoft Sentinel.
• Direct enterprise-level Microsoft 365 migrations, including cross-tenant, government cloud, and hybrid Exchange environments.
• Drive implementation of Zero Trust security, Data Loss Prevention (DLP), identity protection, and Microsoft Purview compliance solutions.
• Collaborate with business and technical leadership to align cloud solutions with organizational objectives.
• Evaluate and integrate emerging Azure and Microsoft 365 technologies to improve cloud capabilities and performance.
• Establish and enforce cloud governance policies, technical standards, and operational frameworks across Azure and Microsoft 365 environments.
• Represent cloud engineering during audits, technical reviews, and executive-level planning sessions.

Certifications:

• Candidates must possess at least one current Microsoft Azure certification.

Clearance Requirement:

• Must possess an active TS SCI with appropriate Polygraph to be considered for this role

Why Choose Independent Software:

At Independent Software, our people are the mission. We’ve built a company around collaboration, integrity, and innovation and we make sure our team has the tools and support to grow, succeed, and thrive.

When you join us, you will:

• Support critical national security missions that matter
• Be part of a close-knit, employee-first culture where your voice is heard
• Expand your skills through ongoing training, mentorship, and career development
• Enjoy competitive compensation, generous benefits, and work-life balance

We’re an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.