Solutions Architect

We’re seeking a talented Solutions Architect specialising in Cloud Infrastructure to play a key role in our growing Architecture Team. The successful candidate will have a deep understanding of cloud technologies from both a hardware (provisioning) and software (consumption) perspective enabling them to design, implement, and maintain secure and scalable cloud solutions for our defence clients. They will have experience of working with multiple cloud platforms such as Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud Platform (GCP) and others. Ideally, they will have experience of securely integrating multiple cloud platforms across both Public and Private cloud instances.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design of secure, scalable, and reliable cloud infrastructure for mission-critical defence applications.
• Develop and drive cloud adoption strategies aligned with SNC MS UK's long-term vision and the specific needs of defence clients.
• Ensure that all cloud architectures meet the highest security standards and comply with relevant regulations (e.g., NCSC, HMGSPF and MoD standards like JSP440/604).
• Design and implement cloud infrastructure using tools like Terraform, Ansible, or AWS CloudFormation.
• Work closely with software development, network, and cybersecurity teams to ensure seamless integration of cloud solutions.
• Lead cloud migration projects, ensuring minimal disruption and optimised performance during transitions from legacy systems.
• Communicate with key stakeholders, including government clients and senior leadership, to present cloud solutions and ensure alignment with operational and business goals.
• Produce comprehensive documentation, including High Level Designs (HLDs) and Low Level Designs (LLDs), and presentations of solutions to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Keep up to date with the latest cloud technologies and trends, ensuring that SNC MS UK remains at the forefront of innovation in the defence sector.
• Provide cost estimates, continuously monitor and optimise cloud infrastructure costs while ensuring efficient use of cloud resources.

Person Specification

• Qualifications & Experience
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in cloud architecture and engineering, with a strong preference for experience in the defence or government sectors.
• Strong expertise in one or more cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Microsoft Azure, GCP).
• Proven experience with Infrastructure as Code (IaC) tools such as Terraform, Ansible, or AWS CloudFormation.
• Strong knowledge of cybersecurity principles, especially in a cloud environment, including experience with zero trust, data encryption, access control, and network security.
• Experience working with security compliance standards (NCSC, HMGSPF and MoD standards like JSP440/604).
• Familiarity with container orchestration technologies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes) and CI/CD pipelines.
• Skills & Abilities
• Security-Focused: Deep understanding of cloud security principles and the ability to design solutions that meet strict defence security requirements.
• Problem Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot complex cloud architectures.
• Communication: Excellent communication skills with the ability to explain complex technical solutions to non-technical stakeholders.
• Team Collaboration: Proven ability to work in cross-functional teams, leading projects and collaborating with engineers, developers, and security specialists.
• Autonomy: Ability to work independently and take ownership of tasks and decisions when needed, ensuring timely and effective delivery of solutions.
• Organisational Skills: Capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously and prioritising tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Innovative Mindset: Willingness to explore new technologies and approaches to stay ahead of the curve in cloud computing.

Additional information

• Work Schedule: Full-time role based in South Wales/Southwest with occasional travel to customer sites and the United States. Hybrid working is available on occasion.
• Professional Development: SNC MS UK provides ample opportunities for training and development, working on cutting-edge technologies and projects.
• Support for Armed Forces: SNC MS UK is a proud Armed Forces Covenant member and offers 15 days paid leave for reservists and 5 days paid leave for Cadet Forces Adult Volunteers.
• Please be aware that many roles at SNC MS UK are subject to both security and export control restrictions. These restrictions mean that factors such as your nationality, any nationalities you may have previously held, and your place of birth can restrict the roles you are eligible to perform within the organisation. All applicants must as a minimum achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard. Many roles also require higher levels of National Security Vetting where applicants must typically have 5 to 10 years of continuous residency in the UK depending on the vetting level required for the role, to allow for meaningful security vetting checks.
• Benefits: Salary Sacrifice Car Scheme, 28 days A/L, Sick Pay, Pension, EAP, Private Medical & Dental Scheme, Life Assurance, Income Protection, Bike to Work scheme, Performance & Pro rata bonus.