Senior Cloud Engineer

The Senior Cloud Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing and maintaining Azure-based cloud infrastructure for IFG Companies while ensuring adherence to security best practices and compliance requirements. The ideal candidate will lead the design, implementation and governance of secure, scalable cloud environments in Microsoft Azure. The candidate must be highly motivated, with excellent communication skills and advanced expertise in building CI/CD pipelines and deployment environments. The candidate must be able to implement solutions in a timely, self-directed manner with little oversight.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDING:

• Architecting, designing, deploying and managing robust, scalable, secure and high-performance Azure infrastructure solutions aligned with enterprise standards and business goals.
• Developing and enforcing cloud security architecture, best practices and operational controls across Azure environments, including identity, networking, data protection and monitoring, in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements and industry frameworks (e.g., CIS and NIST CSF).
• Driving automation, infrastructure as code (IaC), governance and standardization of infrastructure deployments using Terraform and Azure DevOps.
• Developing and managing CI/CD pipelines using Azure DevOps, GitHub Actions or related tools.
• Configuring development, test and production environments and automating deployments, environment provisioning and configuration management.
• Supporting containerization and orchestration using Docker and Kubernetes (AKS).
• Developing internal tools and dashboards for project monitoring, resource optimization and performance tuning.
• Staying current with Azure innovations and recommending improvements to architecture and practices.
• Optimizing cloud cost, performance and resource utilization through proactive monitoring and capacity planning.
• Representing the Azure infrastructure and security domain in strategic planning sessions and technology steering committees.
• Administering and configuring core Azure services (e.g., Azure VMs, VNets, NSGs, Azure Firewall, Azure Monitor, Azure Defender, Key Vault, Azure Policy) using Terraform as the standard infrastructure-as-code tool.
• Developing and maintaining documentation related to system configuration, processes and procedures.
• Supporting disaster recovery and business continuity initiatives.
• Performing other duties as requested.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Deep technical knowledge and experience with complex technology environments, including applications, middleware, on-premises and cloud storage, networks, information security and operations.
• Proficiency in the use of infrastructure monitoring tools and a firm understanding of Zero Trust methodologies and technologies and how they relate to Azure services.
• Proficiency with Git source control and Git branching strategies.
• Proficiency in building pipelines and deploying solutions for Azure Cloud services, such as Azure Functions, API Management, Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS), App Service, Azure SQL and Azure Cosmos DB.
• Proven ability to work independently, identify areas for improvement, research innovative solutions and implement new methods and technologies.
• Strong scripting skills in PowerShell, Bash or Python.
• Proficiency with at least one Integrated Development Environment (IDE), such as Microsoft Visual Studio or Visual Studio Code.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with individuals at all levels of the organization, including senior executives.
• Strong organizational skills, with an ability to manage multiple timelines and complete tasks quickly within the constraints of project timelines and budgets.
• Growth mindset and demonstrated willingness to learn new skills, technologies and frameworks.
• Deep technical expertise across Azure IaaS, PaaS, networking, identity, monitoring and automation.
• Proven experience designing and securing enterprise-scale Azure environments.
• Solid understanding of compliance requirements in regulated industries (e.g., finance, healthcare, government).

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND CERTIFICATIONS

• Required: a bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university in computer science, information systems or a related field, or equivalent relevant experience.
• Required: at least 10 years of experience in cloud infrastructure engineering, with 7+ years focused on Microsoft Azure.
• Preferred: relevant Azure certifications (e.g., AZ-104, AZ-500 or AZ-305).
• Preferred: property/casualty insurance industry experience.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Physical demands are considered those of a climate-controlled office environment with minimal physical exertion.
• The position is hybrid and requires the ability and the willingness to work in an IFG Companies office at least three (3) days per week.
• The position requires prolonged sitting, extensive utilization of computers and interactions with others in person and via phone.
• The position requires the ability and the willingness to travel as required to meet business needs.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

The salary range for this position is $160,000 to $210,000. Additionally, the position may be eligible to earn incentive compensation.

IFG Companies offers competitive compensation and benefits, currently including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), flexible spending, short-term and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, vacation and other paid time off.

WHY IFG COMPANIES

Founded in 1985, IFG Companies is one of the oldest privately held insurance groups in the United States. It combines a specialty carrier focus with long-term stability and thinking, while promoting a culture of underwriting rigor, collaboration, strategic thinking, superior technology and strong producer partnerships.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

IFG Companies is 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 or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.