Principal Cloud Security Architect

Covenant HR; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 130,000 - 170,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading organization in financial services is looking for a Principal Cloud Security Architect in Irvine, California. This role involves leading the cloud security architecture strategy, collaborating with various teams for secure cloud adoption, and managing enterprise threat programs. Ideal candidates should have extensive experience in information risk management and security architecture. This is a 6-month contract with potential for full-time conversion.

Qualifications

• 15 years in information risk management and information security, including 5+ years in security architecture and cloud environments.
• Deep technical expertise in cloud security architecture.
• Experience designing and implementing large-scale cloud and security programs.

Responsibilities

• Lead the overall cloud security architecture strategy.
• Collaborate with Infrastructure, Development, and Business Leadership teams.
• Develop and maintain the Secure Software Development Lifecycle.

Skills

Information risk management

Cloud security architecture

Leadership skills

Communication skills

Technical expertise in IAM

Threat modeling

Job description

Principal Cloud Security Architect

Company – Our client is a globally recognized leader in financial services and technology innovation, consistently ranked in the Fortune 200. Known for their commitment to cybersecurity and digital transformation, they offer a dynamic environment where top‑tier tech professionals can make a large‑scale impact on cutting‑edge cloud and security initiatives.

Job Title – Principal Cloud Security Architect

Role Type – 6‑Month Contract (1,040 hours) with potential for full‑time conversion

Must Have Skills

• 15 years in information risk management and information security, including 5+ years in security architecture and 5+ years in cloud environments
• Deep technical expertise in cloud security architecture, including IAM, CI/CD security, data protection, and threat modeling
• Experience designing and implementing large‑scale cloud and security programs (e.g., SOC, SSDLC, DLP, IAM, Zero Trust)
• Hands‑on familiarity with security frameworks such as NIST 800‑53, ISO 27002, CIS Benchmarks, and Cloud Security Alliance
• Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to influence executive stakeholders

Responsibilities

• Lead the overall cloud security architecture strategy and define secure computing frameworks and standards
• Collaborate with Infrastructure, Development, and Business Leadership teams to ensure secure cloud adoption
• Serve as the security SME on the Information Technology Architecture Committee (ITAC) and Architecture Review Committee
• Develop and maintain the Secure Software Development Lifecycle (SSDLC) and Data Protection Programs
• Define and enforce enterprise‑wide security architecture patterns based on best practices and compliance needs
• Manage the enterprise threat management/intelligence program, supporting SOC operations and risk integration
• Evaluate and lead implementation of new security technologies and vendor tools to support enterprise cloud strategy
• Provide mentorship to junior cybersecurity staff, elevating technical acumen across the team
• Guide secure integration of innovative technologies such as IoT and AI in alignment with risk posture
• Participate in security incident investigations and lead post‑incident review and strategy refinement
• Ensure secure CI/CD pipelines, container security, and cloud‑native protection strategies are embedded into architecture
• Influence security roadmap by identifying gaps and defining forward‑looking technical solutions across domains

Seniority level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment type

Contract

Job function

Information Technology, Consulting, and Training