Cloud Architect Lead (DoD Programs)

Five Stones Research Corporation (5SRC) is seeking an experienced Cloud Architect to support mission-critical modernization efforts for DoD customers. In this advisory SETA role, you will influence cloud strategy, guide architecture decisions, and help government stakeholders adopt secure, scalable solutions across AWS and Azure environments. This position offers the opportunity to shape next-generation cloud capabilities while working alongside a collaborative and growing Huntsville-headquartered team.

Essential Functions

• Analyze and document government cloud strategies, architectures, and modernization plans.


• Translate mission and program requirements into actionable cloud design patterns and technical concepts.


• Conduct analysis of alternatives and provide recommendations on cloud services and architectures across AWS, Azure, and on-prem environments.


• Provide technical oversight of cloud infrastructure designs and implementation plans from development contractors.


• Assess and advise on infrastructure‑as‑code tools (Terraform, CloudFormation) and automation best practices.


• Evaluate and recommend strategies for migrating applications and data from on‑premises systems to cloud environments.


• Ensure cloud solutions align with DoD security requirements, including Zero Trust principles and Impact Level (IL) controls.


• Review and advise on identity management, encryption, network security, and other key cloud security controls.


• Support the preparation and review of documentation for security assessments and ATO processes.


• Analyze and provide guidance on CI/CD pipelines to improve automation, security, and delivery speed.


• Advocate for and promote DevSecOps practices across government and contractor teams.


• Serve as a SETA advisor by offering unbiased technical recommendations to government leadership.


• Evaluate contractor deliverables to ensure alignment with architectural, performance, and security standards.


• Mentor government technical personnel on emerging cloud technologies, trends, and best practices.

Required Education and Experience

• Education: Masters’ in STEM related field from an accredited institution with 10 years of relevant IT experience working on missile defense-related or other complex, large DoD program / projects.
  
  
  
  • Acceptable alternative: Bachelor's degree with 15 years of relevant IT experience working on missile defense- related or other complex, large DoD program / projects.
  
  
  
  


• Works independently, as a team member, or leading teams / tasks, applying engineering rigor to solve engineering / scientific problems


• Must possess the ability to develop technical solutions to complex problems which require the regular use of ingenuity and creativity

What We Offer:

• 401(k) Matching


• Company Events


• Dental Insurance


• Employee Recognition Programs


• Health Insurance


• Life Insurance


• Paid Time Off


• Parental Leave


• Performance Incentives


• Student Loan Repayment


• Tuition Reimbursement


• Vision Insurance

This position will be posted for a minimum of 3 business days. If a candidate has not been selected at that time, it will continue to be posted until a suitable candidate is selected or the position is closed. To be considered for this position, applicants must apply online by clicking “Apply” on the specific position on our careers site.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Salary range: $145,000 - $176,000