AWIPS Cloud Migration Subject Matter Expert (SME) Consultant

is seeking a highly experienced AWIPS Cloud Migration Subject Matter Expert (SME) Consultant to support upcoming strategic initiatives focused on transitioning the Advanced Weather Interactive Processing System (AWIPS) to a cloud environment. This senior-level consulting role will provide deep technical expertise and strategic insight into AWIPS II architecture, operations, and modernization pathways, directly contributing to a future federal bid.

The ideal candidate brings extensive knowledge of AWIPS II, hands-on experience in system testing and validation, and a firm grasp of NOAA/NWS operational frameworks. This role requires a consultant who can translate highly technical systems architecture into actionable strategies for a successful and secure cloud migration.

Key Responsibilities
AWIPS System & Architecture Expertise

• Deliver in-depth technical guidance on AWIPS II architecture and support cloud-readiness assessments.
• Provide insights into the AWIPS Network Control Facility (NCF) operations, including helpdesk, troubleshooting, system monitoring, and repair processes.
• Clarify AWIPS II installation processes, network configurations, and critical hardware/software dependencies.
• Interpret cybersecurity compliance standards, including integration with NOAA OCIO Cyber Security Division (CSD) tools and security patching practices.
• Offer lifecycle management guidance for AWIPS infrastructure components-servers, workstations, routers, firewalls, storage, and network devices-across multiple NOAA/NWS locations.

Cloud Adaptation & System Modernization

• Translate existing AWIPS functions and architecture into scalable, cloud-native designs.
• Support software maintenance strategy and configuration control for over 2 million lines of code within AWIPS II.
• Participate in and advise on AWIPS Configuration Control Board (CCB) processes related to change requests.

Operational & Network Engineering Support

• Apply hands-on AWIPS experience to validate and test system functionality in a simulated or actual cloud environment.
• Provide technical recommendations on SBN infrastructure, VPN connectivity over NOAANet, and IPv6-ready LANs managed by NCF.
• Collaborate with NOAA OCIO N-Wave to ensure network performance, stability, and secure data transfer pathways.

Data Management & Visualization

• Offer strategic input on re-architecting data ingestion, analysis, forecasting, and dissemination workflows for cloud compatibility.
• Support the transition of AWIPS to a Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA) and leverage Smart Push/Pull technologies for data handling.
• Recommend modern, cloud-based visualization solutions to enhance situational awareness and operational decision-making.

Qualifications

• Proven subject matter expertise in AWIPS II, ideally gained through work with NOAA or NWS.
• Demonstrated experience testing or operating AWIPS II in an operational or cloud-preparatory context.
• Deep understanding of AWIPS II infrastructure, including networking, hardware, and software configuration.
• Skilled in communicating complex technical concepts to cross-functional teams and stakeholders.
• Familiarity with NOAA technical documentation, policies, and systems repositories.
• Strong analytical skills with a strategic mindset for IT modernization.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to present findings to technical and non-technical audiences.