Cloud Infrastructure Architect

SUMMARY:
Our client based in Isando is looking for a Cloud Infrastructure Architect with at least 8 - 10 years in IT infrastructure and Cloud roles coupled with 3+ years in a senior/specialist or architecture positions.  Must hold NQF level 7 qualification in Information Technology, Computer Science, Software Engineering or related field plus a professional cloud certification (AWS Solutions Architect, Azure Solutions Architect). 

Purpose of the Role:
The Cloud Infrastructure Architect provides enterprise-level leadership in the design, integration, and governance of cloud infrastructure. The Cloud Infrastructure Architect ensures that cloud environments support business continuity and transformation, align with Enterprise Architecture, and adhere to security and compliance requirements. The role drives innovation, cloud modernisation, and the adoption of emerging technologies while ensuring seamless integration with on-premises and hybrid platforms. The Cloud Specialist defines and governs the enterprise cloud architecture, ensuring that cloud platforms are secure, scalable, cost-efficient, and aligned with business strategy. Operates across RUN (governance, stability), GROW (optimisation, integration), and TRANSFORM (cloud adoption, modernisation, innovation).

POSITION INFO:
Qualifications and Experience Required:

• Matric plus NQF Level 7 Qualification in Information Technology,
• Computer Science, or Software Engineering
• Professional cloud certification (AWS Solutions Architect, Azure Solutions Architect)
• ITIL Foundation certification
• Infrastructure-as-Code training (Terraform, Ansible, Jenkins)
• 8–10 Years in IT infrastructure and cloud roles
• At least 3+ years in senior/specialist or architecture positions
• Proven track record in designing and deploying enterprise-scale cloud solutions
• Experience with hybrid and multi-cloud operating models
• Proven track record in managing cloud environments across AWS or Azure
• Experience with automation, scripting, and cost management in cloud services
• Experience with automation, scripting, and cost management (FinOps) in cloud services
• Experience designing high-availability, secure, scalable environments
• Proven leadership in incident resolution and cost optimisation
• Expertise in networking and security concepts
• Demonstrated resource provisioning and management in production environments
• Proficiency in scripting languages (PowerShell, Python, Bash)
• Exposure to containerisation (Kubernetes, Docker, etc.)

• Define the organisation’s cloud infrastructure strategy and ensure alignment with the IT Operating Model (ITOM)
• Develop a multi-year roadmap for cloud adoption, optimisation, and transformation
• Balance innovation with cost efficiency, resilience, and compliance
• Act as the technical authority for cloud services and platforms
• Define best practices for cloud usage, security, and governance
• Provide specialist input to enterprise cloud strategy and architecture forums.

• Design secure, scalable, and resilient enterprise cloud solutions
• Ensure alignment with Enterprise Architecture, Cybersecurity, and Infrastructure standards
• Govern technical standards, frameworks, and patterns for cloud services.

• Oversee performance, scalability, and resilience of cloud workloads
• Drive cloud cost optimisation through monitoring, rightsizing, and automation
• Provide advanced troubleshooting and root cause analysis for cloud issues.

• Ensure seamless integration of cloud with on-premises infrastructure and applications
• Lead hybrid and multi-cloud strategies, enabling workload portability and resilience
• Support connectivity and interoperability with networks, data, and security platforms
• Lead automation initiatives to improve efficiency and reduce manual workloads
• Develop and maintain Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC) solutions
• Promote DevOps practices across infrastructure and application delivery.

• Partner with Cybersecurity to embed security controls, identity management, and access governance
• Ensure compliance with regulatory standards (POPIA, GDPR, ISO27001)
• Provide architectural input into audits, risk assessments, and change governance
• Implement secure configurations and access controls
• Support audit readiness and remediation activities
• Ensure enterprise cloud security and regulatory adherence
• Ensure disaster recovery and resilience plans.

• Lead cloud adoption and migration programmes, including application modernisation
• Evaluate and recommend emerging technologies (containers, serverless, AI-ops, automation)
• Provide technical leadership in cross-functional transformation initiatives
• Evaluate and test emerging cloud technologies for adoption
• Act as the technical lead for major cloud-related projects
• Lead cloud components of TRANSFORM initiatives
• Build and scale cloud engineering capability.

• Collaborate with Enterprise Architecture, Infrastructure, Application Development, and other IT teams
• Act as a trusted advisor to the CIO, GM, and senior leadership on cloud matters
• Manage strategic vendor relationships with cloud service providers and partners
• Act as cloud lead in Enterprise Architecture and IT governance forums, if needed
• Provide technical sign-off on designs
• Track deliverables and risks for assigned workstreams.

• Mentor Engineers and Technicians, sharing specialist knowledge
• Develop and maintain advanced technical documentation and standards
• Build knowledge base content to support operational teams
• Identify recurring issues and suggest service improvements for best practices
• Actively engage in training programmes, mentorships, and peer learning activities.