Cloud Network Architect – Tactical / Hybrid Cloud / Zero Trust
Location: United States
Work Type: Remote
Remote Work: Yes
Job Description
GridironIT is looking for a Senior Cloud Network Architect to provide advanced technical leadership for the design, integration, and sustainment of hybrid cloud and tactical network architectures supporting DoW tactical communications environments. This role focuses on the convergence of enterprise cloud, edge computing, and deployed tactical networks, ensuring secure, resilient, and interoperable communications across RF, SATCOM, and IP-based transport systems. The architect translates operational requirements into scalable cloud-enabled solutions while ensuring compliance with cybersecurity standards and mission performance requirements:
Key Responsibilities
- Lead design and development of end-to-end hybrid cloud architectures integrating enterprise, edge, and tactical network environments
- Translate Operational Needs Statements (ONS), Capability Production Documents (CPD), and stakeholder requirements into cloud-enabled network solutions
- Develop and maintain architectures aligned to Army tactical network baselines and modernization initiatives (e.g., WIN-T, T2C2, NGC2 evolution)
- Design and implement cloud networking solutions across AWS and Azure environments (VPC/VNET, Transit Gateway, Virtual WAN, Direct Connect/ExpressRoute)
- Architect and integrate software-defined networking (SDN) and network virtualization solutions (e.g., VMware NSX, Cisco ACI)
- Integrate RF, SATCOM, and terrestrial transport systems into hybrid cloud-enabled architectures
- Implement overlay/underlay network solutions (e.g., VXLAN, SD-WAN, MPLS) across enterprise and tactical environments
- Lead Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) implementation, including segmentation, identity-based access, and secure network design
- Ensure compliance with RMF, DISA STIGs, and DoD cybersecurity requirements
- Support engineering working groups, IPTs, and technical reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR)
- Develop technical documentation (architecture diagrams, Technical Data Packages (TDPs), test plans/reports, integration documentation)
- Provide oversight of lab integration, field testing, and performance validation (latency, throughput, resiliency)
- Identify integration risks, constraints, and mitigation strategies and provide recommendations to Government stakeholders
- Interface with Government stakeholders, PMs, cybersecurity teams, and industry partners
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field (Master’s preferred)
- 10–15+ years of relevant experience in network engineering, architecture, or systems integration
- Deep understanding of DoD network architectures and hybrid cloud environments
- Experience integrating enterprise cloud solutions with tactical or edge network environments
- Strong knowledge of routing and switching protocols (BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, IS-IS) and Layer 2/Layer 3 networking
- Experience with cloud networking technologies (AWS and/or Azure) and hybrid connectivity solutions
- Experience with SDN and network virtualization technologies
- Familiarity with SATCOM architectures (TDMA/FDMA), RF systems, and tactical transport integration
- Strong understanding of cybersecurity principles, Zero Trust Architecture, and RMF processes
- Experience with DoDAF, architecture development, and system documentation
- Ability to obtain/maintain Secret clearance (or higher)
Desired Qualifications
- Experience supporting Army – PEO C3T / C5ISR / DEVCOM programs
- Certifications such as CCNP/CCIE, AWS Solutions Architect, Azure Network Engineer, or VMware NSX
- Security certifications (Security+, CISSP, CASP+)
- Experience with automation and scripting (Terraform, Ansible, Python)
- Familiarity with ATO/Authority to Operate processes
- Experience supporting SATCOM systems, tactical radios, and waveform integration
- Experience with edge/disconnected (DIL) network operations and modernization initiatives
Travel
- Up to 20–30% (fielding, exercises, integration events)
Clearance
Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and may need to meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Secret clearance is required.
Compensation and Benefits
Salary Range: $125,000 - $175,000 (Compensation is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, work experience, skills, education, certifications, seniority, and business needs. This range may be modified in the future.)
Benefits: Gridiron offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision insurance, HSA, FSA, 401(k), disability & ADD insurance, life and pet insurance to eligible employees. Full-time and part-time employees working at least 30 hours per week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in Gridiron’s benefits programs.
Gridiron IT Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status or disability status.
Gridiron IT is a Women Owned Small Business (WOSB) headquartered in the Washington, D.C. area that supports our clients' missions throughout the United States. Gridiron IT specializes in providing comprehensive IT services tailored to meet the needs of federal agencies. Our capabilities include IT Infrastructure & Cloud Services, Cyber Security, Software Integration & Development, Data Solution & AI, and Enterprise Applications. These capabilities are backed by Gridiron IT's experienced workforce and our commitment to ensuring we meet and exceed our clients' expectations.
Pay: $125,000.00 - $175,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Employee discount
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Professional development assistance
- Referral program
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Are you willing to travel 10-20% if needed?
Education:
Experience:
- Network Architecture: 8 years (Required)
- AWS or Azure: 5 years (Required)
- SATCOM: 3 years (Required)
Security clearance:
Work Location: Remote
