Azure Cloud Engineer, Subject Matter Expert with Security Clearance

Who are we? Independent Software is a consulting, product, and solutions firm dedicated to the practical application of software and system engineering technologies to solve complex problems. We bring together world class engineers with proven engineering best practices, domain expertise, commercial technologies, and proven agile management approaches to create high value solutions aimed at helping our customers meet their most critical business and mission objectives. Why Independent Software? We are focused on continual learning and evolution.

We don’t do things because “that’s the way we’ve always done things”; we listen to our employees and adapt to the changing marketplace. We look at the big picture and encourage our engineers to get training and certifications in emerging technologies that will help shape our customer’s mission. We’ve been profitable year after year. We’re always on the lookout for great engineers to join the team and we recognize that our employees are the heart and soul of what we do. We focus on recruiting talented people, treating them right, and then allowing them to do what they do best. No red tape.

No micromanagement. Smart people want to work with smart people, and we love people who are passionate about what they do and finding ways to do it better. Top Reasons to Work at Independent Software:

• Great people deserve even better benefits, from comprehensive healthcare coverage and generous leave time to discounts with all our vendors.
• You are not just a job title. That's why we tip the work-life balance scale in your favor. It's not about being billable, it's about being valuable.
• Whether you're working on-site or in our offices, your role at Independent Software is just as critical to our success as your coworker's.
• We're constantly researching and implementing the latest technology, so you've always got the right tools at your disposal.
• As we've grown, we've retained that small company feel. When we say we have an open-door policy, we actually mean it.
• Independent Software is comprised of wonderfully generous folks. We believe in supporting the causes our employees care about. Bring us an opportunity to help and we'll listen.
• Teamwork got us where we are today. Our collaborative environment allows you to maximize your true potential.
• The work we do is exciting, critical stuff. No matter your role at Independent Software, you're helping us keep the nation safe and secure.
• We have a history of great achievement, and, with each year, our company gets even bigger and better. As we grow, so does the opportunity for our employees.
• We host a variety of fun employee and family events throughout the year to say thanks for all that you do to make Independent Software a technology leader as well as a phenomenal place to work.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Company Sponsored Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance plans
• Company Paid Long Term Disability, Short Term Disability and Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Your retirement plan is an important benefit you shouldn’t overlook. We offer a 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan and Trust that offers a powerful way to enhance your long-term financial well-being by investing in yourself. We offer immediate eligibility and company matching.
• A generous Paid Time Off and Holiday package
• Paid training! We encourage all employees to seek out training opportunities like conferences, certification courses and seminars.
• We truly believe the right work-life balance can exist, and it's here at Independent Software. Our work is extremely important, but your job is just a part of who you are. When you enjoy your life outside of our walls, you're at your best the next time you walk through our doors. We do all we can to assure that happens every day.

Independent Software is an

Equal Opportunity Employer EOE, M/F/D/V. Azure Cloud Engineer, Subject Matter Expert Annapolis Junction, MD Full Time Cloud Egnineering Experienced What You Will Do: As a Subject Matter Expert (SME) Azure Cloud Engineer at Independent Software, you will serve as the organization's leading technical authority on Microsoft Azure and Microsoft 365 cloud solutions. You will provide strategic direction, oversee enterprise-wide cloud transformation initiatives, and ensure secure, scalable, and compliant cloud environments supporting mission-critical operations. You will work closely with technical teams and organizational leadership to:

• Develop cloud strategies that align technology solutions with business and operational objectives.
• Lead complex cloud transformation and modernization initiatives from planning through implementation and ongoing support.
• Provide expert guidance on cloud architecture, security, governance, and emerging technologies.
• Establish technical standards and represent cloud engineering during audits, technical reviews, and executive-level discussions.

Key Responsibilities

• Define enterprise-wide cloud strategies encompassing Azure infrastructure, Microsoft 365 integration, and operational resilience.
• Lead full lifecycle cloud transformation initiatives, including planning, architecture, implementation, and sustainment.
• Architect secure Azure environments using advanced services such as Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS), Azure Synapse, Logic Apps, and Microsoft Sentinel.
• Direct enterprise-level Microsoft 365 migrations, including cross-tenant, government cloud, and hybrid Exchange environments.
• Drive implementation of Zero Trust security, Data Loss Prevention (DLP), identity protection, and Microsoft Purview compliance solutions.
• Collaborate with business and technical leadership to align cloud solutions with organizational objectives.
• Evaluate and integrate emerging Azure and Microsoft 365 technologies to improve cloud capabilities and performance.
• Establish and enforce cloud governance policies, technical standards, and operational frameworks across Azure and Microsoft 365 environments.
• Represent cloud engineering during audits, technical reviews, and executive-level planning sessions.

Certifications

• Candidates must possess at least one current Microsoft Azure certification.

Clearance Requirement

• Must possess an active TS SCI with appropriate Polygraph to be considered for this role Why Choose Independent Software: At Independent Software, our people are the mission. We’ve built a company around collaboration, integrity, and innovation and we make sure our team has the tools and support to grow, succeed, and thrive. When you join us, you will:
• Support critical national security missions that matter
• Be part of a close-knit, employee-first culture where your voice is heard
• Expand your skills through ongoing training, mentorship, and career development
• Enjoy competitive compensation, generous benefits, and work-life balance Ready to take the next step in your career? Join us and be part of something bigger. Apply today. We’re an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.