Cloud Security Architect - Contract

Position Summary This is a Temp‑to‑Hire, W‑2, fully remote position based in the U.S. The Cloud Security Architect will serve as a key technical resource in the Global Cyber and Information Security (GCIS) organization. The role involves developing and maturing cloud security architecture, recommending standards, creating reference designs and narratives, and staying current on cloud best practices. Key Responsibilities Assess, review, and design secure cloud solutions in collaboration with various business and technical teams. Promote cloud security awareness across the organization. Apply a data‑centric, risk‑based approach to cloud security solutions. Define architectural standards, artifacts, design patterns, and technical specification documents for the enterprise. Assess, monitor, and recommend cloud security improvements and best practices to mitigate risks and balance cost. Work with the Director of Cloud Security Governance and the Cloud enterprise architecture and security engineering teams to ensure mature and correctly configured cloud platforms. Oversee and consult with project teams to enforce adherence to cloud security design patterns and best practices. Engage M&A teams to integrate acquired resources into Gallagher’s cloud environment. Design, collaborate, and provide cloud options that balance business requirements with security needs. Identify technical and architectural risks for current or proposed states, provide alternatives, and champion design proposals for approval. Participate in technology evaluations, proof‑of‑concept testing, and provide in‑depth analysis of proposed solutions. Collaborate with stakeholders across the enterprise to ensure alignment with overall design intent. Partner with architects and engineers in infrastructure, network, application, and business teams to comply with GCIS policies and standards. Assist with risk mitigation and governance activities aligned with cloud security architecture compliance. Lead architectural discussions and serve as a guide and thought leader within forums and projects. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Computer Science or a related field. Minimum 3 years of experience with Microsoft Azure. Minimum 3 years of cybersecurity experience. Minimum 2 years of experience with other cloud platforms (AWS, GCP, Oracle). Minimum 1 year of experience reviewing detailed solution architectures and providing feedback to application and infrastructure teams. Experience reviewing and developing cloud‑enabled models and security monitoring tooling. Minimum 1 year of experience with multi‑cloud security and aligning policies across platforms. Demonstrated work experience in a regulated and globally distributed environment. Knowledge and experience with enterprise architecture frameworks such as TOGAF. Knowledge and experience implementing security standards frameworks (NIST CSF, ISO 27001, CSA CCM, PCI‑DSS, GDPR). Proven success recommending and implementing cloud security architecture best practices and standards for large projects or programs delivering or migrating to cloud solutions. Preferred Qualifications At least one certification related to information security (CISSP, CCSP, CCSK, AWS Solutions Architect, Azure Security). Demonstrated knowledge of multi‑cloud environment security. Minimum 2 years of experience in a global organization. Insurance and risk‑management domain knowledge desired. Experience with architecture tasks associated with a Cloud Security Posture Monitoring tool such as WIZ. Key Characteristics Strong oral and written communication skills. Self‑starter with strong work ethic. Flexible and resilient, able to handle planned and unplanned demands. Proven ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously. Problem solver with a pragmatic and realistic approach to solutions. Collaborative, motivated to drive issues toward mutually agreed resolutions. Compensation and Benefits The role offers a competitive and comprehensive compensation package. In addition to a base salary, eligible benefits include medical, dental, and vision plans, life and accident insurance, 401(k) and Roth options, tax‑advantaged accounts (HSA, FSA), educational expense reimbursement, and paid parental leave. Other benefits include digital mental health services, flexible work hours, training programs, and a charitable matching gift program. EEO Statement Gallagher embraces diversity and is committed to equal employment opportunity. All persons are entitled to equal employment opportunities and the employer prohibits discrimination on any protected characteristic. Reasonable accommodations for disabilities will be provided when possible. #J-18808-Ljbffr Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (AJG)