Cloud Architect Virtual Desktop Environments (Azure)
We are seeking an experienced Cloud Architect with specialized expertise in designing, deploying, and managing virtual desktop environments (VDE) with a specific focus on Azure. This is a contract-based role starting in April, where the successful candidate will play a pivotal role in architecting solutions that optimize virtual desktop infrastructure and enhance end-user experiences across the enterprise.
Key Responsibilities:
* Design, deploy, and manage Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) solutions to meet organizational needs, ensuring scalability, security, and performance.
* Lead the end-to-end architecture for virtual desktop environments, including the planning, deployment, and management of AVD.
* Collaborate with cross-functional teams to understand requirements and provide effective cloud-based virtual desktop solutions.
* Provide subject matter expertise on Azure and Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) to drive best practices for optimization, security, and user experience.
* Ensure compliance with corporate governance and security policies, including data protection and identity management within AVD.
* Conduct performance tuning, capacity planning, and troubleshooting to ensure high availability and disaster recovery.
* Drive innovation by exploring emerging cloud technologies and incorporating them into virtual desktop solutions where applicable.
* Offer guidance and mentoring to junior team members on virtual desktop best practices within the Azure ecosystem.
* Provide ongoing support and maintenance for virtual desktop environments, implementing updates, patches, and system upgrades as necessary.
* Produce high-quality documentation of architecture designs, configurations, and procedures for both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
* Work closely with clients, stakeholders, and project teams to align cloud infrastructure with business objectives.
Required Skills & Experience:
* Proven expertise in Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) and Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) solutions.
* Microsoft Certified: Azure Virtual Desktop Specialty (AZ-140) certification is required.
* Strong knowledge and hands-on experience with Azure Cloud Services (e.g., Virtual Machines, Networking, Storage, and Identity).
* Expertise in Azure Active Directory and Identity Management for virtual desktop environments.
* Experience in scaling, automating, and optimizing virtual desktop environments.
* Strong understanding of cloud security best practices, including encryption, compliance, and disaster recovery strategies in a virtual desktop context.
* Familiarity with tools for monitoring, reporting, and automating workflows within the virtual desktop environment (e.g., Azure Monitor, PowerShell, etc.).
* Experience with Azure management tools such as Azure Resource Manager (ARM), Azure Automation, and Azure Security Center.
* Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills, with the ability to resolve complex cloud-related issues.
* Ability to communicate technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders effectively.
Desirable Skills:
* Experience with other Microsoft technologies related to virtual desktop solutions (e.g., Windows Virtual Desktop, Office 365).
* Knowledge of ITIL or other IT service management frameworks.
* Experience working in a multi-cloud environment.
* Ability to lead cloud architecture workshops and design sessions with clients.
Qualifications:
* Microsoft Certified: Azure Virtual Desktop Specialty (AZ-140) certification required.
* Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience).
* Minimum of 7 years of experience as a Cloud Architect or similar role, with a focus on Azure Virtual Desktop environments.
Key Attributes:
* Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
* Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
* A proactive approach to continuous learning and staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends in cloud computing and virtualization.
* Excellent analytical and troubleshooting abilities.