Principal Cloud Architect - Craft Education

Western Governors University is seeking a Principal Cloud Architect for a full-time position in WGU Tennessee. This role involves technical expertise in cloud architecture, AI utilization for infrastructure efficiency, and leadership in engineering practices.

Job Description

The Principal Cloud Architect applies expert knowledge to ensure best practices in technology architecture across the department. Responsibilities include initiating major changes, solving critical issues, and fostering a positive culture based on WGU Leadership Principles.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

• Utilizes AI (e.g., LLMs, Agentic, MCP) for efficient infrastructure modifications.
• Designs and implements solutions as a big picture thinker.
• Addresses business and technical challenges strategically.
• Participates in architectural reviews and provides analysis feedback.
• Plans and manages hardware platform design, including components and frameworks.
• Analyzes systems to identify and enhance problem areas.
• Develops, mentors, and trains engineers on DevOps and CI/CD methodologies.
• Provides technical support for testing, validation, and DevOps activities.
• Ensures systems are built on HA Architecture with Backup/DR support.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skill and Abilities:

• Ability to travel to client locations.
• Expertise in implementing AWS services.
• Experience with highly available software deployments.
• Expertise in Infrastructure as Code (e.g., Terraform).
• Strong Linux and Windows administration skills in cloud environments.
• Experience leading cloud operations, including monitoring and alerting.

Competencies:

Organizational Impact: Proactively anticipates problems and develops technical processes.

Problem Solving & Decision Making: Achieves goals independently and leads project teams.

Communication & Influence: Communicates with experts and influences leadership on strategic matters.

Leadership: Provides guidance and manages complex project initiatives.

Job Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications: University Degree or equivalent, 6+ years IT experience, 3+ years in AWS services, Configuration Management, automation tools, and governance tools. Must obtain required AWS certifications within 6 months.

Preferred Qualifications: Experience in cloud solutions, spend optimizations, software deployment, SDLC, compliance, and YAML/JSON expertise.

Physical Requirements:

Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer. Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds.

Location Requirements:

Position begins remote but will transition to hybrid in Nashville, TN.