Principal Kubernetes Solutions Architect

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About the Role

AFS is searching for a Principal Kubernetes Solutions Architect to drive the design, deployment, and automation of Kubernetes‑based platforms. This leadership role focuses on architecting secure, scalable, and highly available container orchestration environments to support business‑critical workloads. The ideal candidate excels at building robust Kubernetes clusters and enabling development teams to maximize platform capabilities.

As a recognized expert in Kubernetes, you will leverage your deep experience in cluster management, security, and scaling to deliver resilient containerized solutions. Your advanced skills in Infrastructure as Code, CI/CD pipelines, and cloud‑native automation will empower development teams to efficiently utilize self‑service Kubernetes platforms.

While the primary focus is Kubernetes, expertise with hybrid and private cloud environments such as VMware vSphere or OpenShift further distinguishes candidates.

Responsibilities

• Architect, build, and maintain Kubernetes clusters with an emphasis on scalability, reliability, and security, utilizing best practices for cluster lifecycle management.
• Manage core Kubernetes services, including networking, storage, workload scheduling, and RBAC for access control.
• Oversee containerized workloads, ensuring high availability, efficient scaling, and robust security for multi‑tenant environments.
• Design, implement, and manage Kubernetes Operators to automate operational tasks and lifecycle management of complex applications.
• Drive Infrastructure as Code (IaC) initiatives using tools like Terraform to automate Kubernetes resource provisioning.
• Design, implement, and optimize CI/CD pipelines for containerized applications, embedding security controls throughout the pipeline.
• Build custom automation tools and scripts (Python, Go, Bash) to enhance Kubernetes operations and minimize manual tasks, leveraging APIs for integration.
• Serve as the Kubernetes subject‑matter expert, mentoring development teams and guiding optimal use of container orchestration technologies.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to assess new Kubernetes‑native solutions and recommend enhancements to platform efficiency and capabilities.
• Promote best practices in Git workflows and the use of AI tools to accelerate the development and troubleshooting of container‑based applications.
• Break down large projects into actionable tasks for junior team members.

Required Skills & Experience

• 10 years of relevant experience in any of the following areas.
• Advanced proficiency with Infrastructure as Code (IaC), especially Terraform, including targeted applies, imports, and complex module usage.
• Significant experience architecting, deploying, and managing Kubernetes clusters (Amazon EKS or equivalent).
• Strong command of Kubernetes RBAC, security policies, and best practices.
• Demonstrated experience designing, building, and maintaining automated CI/CD pipelines for containerized workloads.
• Thorough understanding of Kubernetes networking, Linux/Unix systems, and platform security.
• Proficiency with Git and GitOps workflows for Kubernetes resource management.
• Must hold and maintain DoD 8140 certifications.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with VMware vSphere or OpenShift in hybrid or private cloud contexts.
• Proven experience building custom Kubernetes operators.
• Familiarity with configuration management tools (e.g., Ansible).
• Exposure to public cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and DevOps methodologies.
• Advanced programming skills in Python, Go, or JavaScript/TypeScript.
• Understanding of authentication protocols including OIDC, OAuth2, LDAP, and SAML.
• Contributions to open‑source Kubernetes or DevOps projects.

Relevant Certifications

• Kubernetes certifications such as Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA), Certified Kubernetes Application Developer (CKAD), Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist (CKS), and Kubestronaut.

Clearance

An active TS/SCI federal security clearance is required.

Compensation and Benefits

As required by local law, Accenture Federal Services provides reasonable ranges of compensation for hired roles based on labor costs in the states of California, Colorado, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Washington, Vermont, the District of Columbia, and the city of Cleveland. Compensation for roles at Accenture Federal Services varies depending on a wide array of factors, including but not limited to office location, role, skill set, and level of experience.

The pay range for the states of California, Colorado, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Washington, Vermont, the District of Columbia, and the city of Cleveland is: $139,600—$170,100 USD.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

We believe that no one should be discriminated against because of their differences. All employment decisions shall be made without regard to age, race, creed, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, citizenship status or any other basis as protected by federal, state, or local law. Our rich diversity makes us more innovative, more competitive, and more creative, which helps us better serve our clients and our communities. For details, view a copy of the Accenture Federal Services Equal Opportunity Policy Statement. Accenture Federal Services is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. Additionally, as an affirmative action employer for veterans and individuals with disabilities, Accenture Federal Services is committed to providing veteran employment opportunities to our service men and women.

Requesting an Accommodation

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Applicants for employment in the US must have work authorization that does not now or in the future require sponsorship of a visa for employment authorization in the United States.

Candidates who are currently employed by a client of Accenture Federal Services or an affiliated Accenture business may not be eligible for consideration.

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California Additional Notifications

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