Job description

Azure Core Infrastructure Architect Location: Saint Paul, MN (Hybrid) Job Description: We are seeking an experienced Azure Core Infrastructure Architect to lead the design, implementation, and governance of Microsoft Azure-based infrastructure solutions. This role requires deep technical expertise across Azure IaaS and PaaS services, infrastructure automation, networking, identity, and security. The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker, able to architect scalable, secure, and resilient cloud environments aligned with enterprise standards and business goals. Key Responsibilities: • Lead the architecture, design, and implementation of Azure infrastructure services including compute, storage, networking, identity, and monitoring. • Define cloud infrastructure standards, reference architectures, and reusable patterns for IaaS, PaaS, and hybrid environments. • Partner with application, data, and security teams to align Azure solutions with business needs and compliance requirements. • Develop Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC) using tools such as Terraform, Bicep, or ARM templates. • Oversee implementation of Azure governance policies including RBAC, resource tagging, management groups, cost controls, and policy enforcement. • Design and implement hybrid connectivity (VPN, ExpressRoute), network segmentation (vNETs, NSGs, Azure Firewall), and identity integrations (Azure AD, SSO, MFA). • Lead cloud migration and modernization efforts, providing architecture guidance and performance optimization strategies. • Define RTO/RPO strategies and design high-availability/disaster recovery architecture for critical systems. • Ensure security best practices and zero-trust principles are applied in all designs. • Create documentation, diagrams, and architecture artifacts that support operations and knowledge sharing. • Collaborate with DevOps, security, and operations teams to drive automation, monitoring, and support models. Required Skills: • Bachelor s degree in computer science, Information Systems, or related field (or equivalent experience) • 7+ years of IT infrastructure experience with at least 3+ years in Azure architecture roles • Strong experience in core Azure services: vNETs, NSGs, Load Balancers, Azure AD, Azure Monitor, Azure Policy, Azure Backup, and Azure Storage • Proficiency in scripting and IaC tools (e.g., Terraform, PowerShell, Bicep) • Expertise in network design and hybrid connectivity between on-prem and Azure • Understanding security and compliance requirements for enterprise cloud environments • Experience in designing HA and DR solutions in cloud-native and hybrid environments Preferred Qualifications: • Azure Solutions Architect Expert certification (AZ-305). • Experience with multi-cloud and interconnectivity (e.g., AWS, Google Cloud Platform). • Familiarity with DevOps practices and CI/CD pipelines using Azure DevOps or GitHub Actions. • Experience with enterprise CMDB, ITSM, and automation platforms. • Knowledge of infrastructure cost management and FinOps practices.

Requirements