Cloud Architect - Google Cloud Platform (GCP)

We are seeking a Google Cloud Platform architect to design, govern, and continuously mature enterprise-scale cloud architectures across IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS environments. This is a senior architectural role — you will set cloud strategy, drive GCP-native solution design, ensure FedRAMP High compliance, and guide DevSecOps adoption across a large federal program portfolio. Deep, demonstrable GCP expertise is the non-negotiable core of this role.

This role is remote with a preference for a candidate located Virginia, Maryland, or Washington DC.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of GCP-native enterprise architectures covering IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS workloads.
• Architect solutions leveraging core GCP services: Compute Engine, GKE, Cloud Run, BigQuery, Google SIEM, etc.
• Design and oversee Infrastructure as Code (IaC) implementations using Terraform and Google Cloud Deployment Manager.
• Architect secure, FedRAMP High-compliant cloud environments aligned with FISMA, NIST 800-53, and DHS 4300A requirements.
• Define GCP networking architectures including VPCs, Shared VPCs, Cloud Interconnect, Cloud VPN, and hybrid connectivity patterns.
• Provide architectural leadership for containerization (GKE, Anthos), serverless (Cloud Functions, Cloud Run), and managed database services on GCP.
• Lead cloud architecture reviews, technical design sessions, and stakeholder presentations with both technical and executive audiences.
• Establish and maintain cloud architecture frameworks, reusable patterns, and governance standards across the program.
• Collaborate with DevSecOps, data engineering, and application teams to ensure architectural consistency and compliance.
• Evaluate emerging GCP services and advise leadership on adoption roadmaps and strategic cloud investments.

Requirements

Required Qualifications

•  7–10 years of cloud architecture experience with 5+ years of deep, hands-on Google Cloud Platform (GCP) expertise.
• Expert-level knowledge of GCP core services: compute, networking, storage, data, AI/ML, and security.
• Proficiency in IaC tools — Terraform required; experience with Google Cloud Deployment Manager a strong plus.
• Deep understanding of GCP networking: VPC design, Shared VPC, Cloud Interconnect, Cloud Armor, Cloud Load Balancing.
• Strong experience designing containerized and Kubernetes-based workloads on GKE and Anthos.
• Hands-on experience with GCP security services: Cloud IAM, BeyondCorp, Security Command Center, VPC Service Controls.
• Knowledge of FedRAMP High, FISMA, NIST 800-53 compliance requirements in cloud environments.
• Experience with CI/CD pipeline architecture and DevSecOps practices on GCP (Cloud Build, Artifact Registry).
• Exceptional communication skills — able to translate complex architecture into actionable guidance for engineering teams and executives alike.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience with Google Workspace and Apigee API management.
• Familiarity with Google Cloud's AI/ML services (Vertex AI, BigQuery ML).
• Multi-cloud architecture experience (AWS, Azure) in addition to primary GCP expertise.
• TOGAF or equivalent enterprise architecture framework experience.

Additional Information

• Successful completion of a client-required background investigation and suitability determination will be required.
• The ability to obtain and maintain a federal security clearance may be required based on the engagement.
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• GCP Professional Cloud Architect certification — required.
• Additional GCP specialty certifications (Professional Data Engineer, Professional Security Engineer) highly desirable.
• TOGAF certification preferred. CCSP or CISSP strongly desirable.