Senior Cloud Architect (Director, Cloud Operations)

Cornerstone Research; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 202,000 - 252,400; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare benefits

Paid time off

Retirement savings plan

Job summary

A leading research consulting firm in San Francisco is seeking a Senior Cloud Architect to oversee cloud operations and strategy. The role involves leading the design and implementation of scalable cloud solutions, ensuring compliance, and mentoring a team of architects and engineers. Ideal candidates will have 15+ years of experience in technology, with strong expertise in public cloud platforms. Competitive salary and benefits package offered.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience in technology, with a focus on cloud engineering or architecture.
• Deep experience with at least two major public cloud platforms.
• Track record of mentoring and developing engineering teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the firm’s cloud strategy aligned with business goals.
• Lead architectural design for secure cloud solutions.
• Establish governance frameworks to ensure compliance and cost optimization.

Skills

Cloud computing

Leadership

Communication

Cloud-native architecture

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in IT, Computer Science, Engineering or related field

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

AWS

Azure

GCP

Job description

Senior Cloud Architect (Director, Cloud Operations)

Cornerstone Research is looking for a seasoned cloud technology leader to serve as the Director of Cloud Operations, overseeing the design, security, resilience, cost control, and integration of our growing cloud infrastructure. This leadership role blends strategic direction with hands‑on oversight of the entire cloud environment.

Role Overview

As the Director, Cloud Operations you will forecast with the CIO and senior executives how technology powers our firm, ensure reliability and security standards, and mentor a cross‑functional team spanning product development, cybersecurity, and consulting. You will drive innovation, implement modern cloud solutions, and maintain strong client‑facing relationships.

You’ll Love It Here If You

• Embrace continuous learning and improvement.
• Set a high bar for excellence.
• Believe teamwork leads to success.
• Take pride in always doing your best work.
• Passion for what you do.

How You'll Help Our Team Succeed

• Develop and execute the firm’s overarching cloud strategy aligned with business goals.
• Lead architectural design and oversee implementation of scalable, secure cloud solutions across AWS, Azure, GCP.
• Establish governance frameworks and enforce cloud standards, security, compliance, and cost optimization.
• Translate business requirements into technical solutions and present to C‑level executives.
• Collaborate with product development, cybersecurity, and consulting teams.
• Build a partnership with the Data Science Center, Applied Resource Center, and the CTIO.
• Coordinate with consulting staff to enhance the efficiency of cloud‑based infrastructure.
• Drive automation initiatives to improve operational efficiency.
• Stay current on emerging cloud technologies and share insights.
• Recruit, mentor, and develop high‑performing cloud architects and engineers.
• Manage the cloud budget, focusing on cost optimization.
• Ensure compliance with security best practices and regulatory standards.

What You’ll Need To Be Successful

• 15+ years of experience, including at least 10 years in cloud computing and 5 years in a leadership role focused on cloud engineering or architecture.
• Deep experience and certifications in at least two major public cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Hands‑on expertise in cloud‑native architecture, serverless computing, backup/recovery, and best practices.
• Track record of building, mentoring, and developing high‑performing engineering teams.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills with both technical and business stakeholders.
• Understanding of business value of cloud technologies and alignment with client objectives.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Certified cloud professional (AWS Solutions Architect – Professional, Azure Solutions Architect Expert, Google Cloud Professional Architect) and additional security certifications (CISSP, CompTIA Cloud+) are a plus.
• Bachelor’s degree in IT, Computer Science, Engineering, or related field; Master’s preferred.

Compensation & Benefits

Boston: $185,300 – $231,600 per year. Chicago: $196,500 – $245,400. Los Angeles: $184,000 – $229,900. New York: $188,500 – $235,400. San Francisco: $202,000 – $252,400. Silicon Valley: $205,600 – $256,900. Washington, DC: $181,900 – $227,300. Base salary ranges are locality‑specific and reflective of market conditions. The package also includes annual performance bonuses, comprehensive benefits such as healthcare, paid time off, retirement savings, and relocation assistance is not offered.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Cornerstone Research provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to legally protected categories, including age, sex, gender identity, race, color, creed, medical condition, disability, marital status, pregnancy status, military status, veteran status, sexual orientation, ancestry, national origin, and other protected characteristics.