Senior Systems Contract Manager - Cloud Architecture at Bowhead

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Systems Contract Manager - Cloud Architecture
Company: Bowhead
Location: Arlington County, Virginia, United States
Job Type: On-site
Category: DevOps Engineer
Date Posted: 2025-08-01
Experience Level: 10+ years

🚀 Role Summary

Strategic Cloud Architecture: Lead architectural design and implementation of cloud-native solutions for mission-critical Department of Defense applications, driving strategic migration of legacy DoD systems to secure cloud environments while ensuring compliance with federal security standards.
Cloud Platform Expertise: Design and oversee end-to-end cloud architecture strategies across AWS GovCloud, Azure Government, and other FedRAMP-authorized cloud platforms for complex DoD legacy system migrations.
Security Integration & Compliance: Implement and maintain security controls compliant with NIST, FISMA, DoD Directive 8140, and DoD security frameworks while ensuring operational continuity throughout migration processes.
Cross-Functional Leadership: Interface with the customer and external stakeholders, provide technical guidance to development teams and junior architects, and chair/co-chair meetings and working groups on behalf of government representatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong background in cloud architecture, security compliance, and stakeholder management, with a focus on strategic planning and execution for mission-critical DoD applications.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

Strategic Architecture Leadership: Lead architectural design and implementation of cloud-native solutions for mission-critical Department of Defense applications, driving strategic migration of legacy DoD systems to secure cloud environments while ensuring compliance with federal security standards.
Cloud Platform Architecture: Design and oversee end-to-end cloud architecture strategies across AWS GovCloud, Azure Government, and other FedRAMP-authorized cloud platforms for complex DoD legacy system migrations.
Security Integration & Compliance: Implement and maintain security controls compliant with NIST, FISMA, DoD Directive 8140, and DoD security frameworks while ensuring operational continuity throughout migration processes.
Legacy System Assessment: Conduct comprehensive assessments of existing DoD applications and J6 IT processes to determine optimal migration pathways and identify corrective actions for hardware, software, and business management procedures.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Interface with the customer and external stakeholders in working groups, technical exchange meetings, and other forums while providing technical guidance to development teams and junior architects.
Technical Documentation & Reporting: Create and maintain detailed architectural documentation, migration plans, security compliance reports, and prepare contingency plans while identifying/recommending GOTS/COTS software applications for program tracking.
Project Management & Oversight: Chair/co-chair meetings and working groups on behalf of government representatives, resolve problems, allocate resources, manage personnel, and monitor performance to meet contract requirements.
Infrastructure Management: Oversee development/coordinate technical solutions ensuring compatibility within the customer's infrastructure while maintaining accountability for all IT assets through ITEC Team oversight.
Personnel Supervision: Provide daily control and supervision of assigned personnel, provide planned replacement information at least 15 calendar days prior to replacement, and provide information within 24 hours of unplanned replacements.
Risk Management & Process Improvement: Identify and mitigate technical and security risks, recommend life cycle management processes for automated information systems, and develop cost-efficiency strategies.
Governance Participation: Participate in J6 IT Governance processes and identify/assign C4IT support personnel for Projects & Portfolio Managers to meet J6 timelines.
Other duties as assigned.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Information Systems, or related field from an ABET accredited or CAE designated institution; Master's degree preferred.

Experience: Minimum 16+ years of systems architecture experience with 8+ years specifically in cloud architecture and minimum 5 years managing 10+ personnel for IT and/or cybersecurity efforts.

DoD Experience: Minimum 5 years experience working with DoD systems and understanding of military operational requirements, specifically with the customer's infrastructure.

Required Skills:

Expert knowledge of cloud platforms (AWS GovCloud, Azure Government, GCP) with emphasis on government cloud environments
Proficiency in containerization technologies (Docker, Kubernetes)
Experience with Infrastructure as Code (Terraform, CloudFormation)
Strong understanding of microservices architecture and API design
Knowledge of CI/CD pipelines and DevSecOps practices
Familiarity with database migration strategies and data architecture
Experience with Cryptonet Management Workstation (CMW) and crypto status communication protocols
Framework Compliance: Meets the Core and Additional Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Tasks (KSATs) defined in the DoD Cyber Workforce Framework for Work Role 802 (NIST: OV-PM-002) and Work Role 632 (NIST: SP-SYS-002).

Preferred Qualifications:

Leadership Experience: Previous experience leading large-scale enterprise architecture initiatives and managing cross-functional teams
Programming Knowledge: Proficiency in Python, Java, or other enterprise programming languages
Government Experience: Experience with FedRAMP, ATO processes, and government compliance frameworks

CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

Required: CompTIA Security+ and AWS Solutions Architect Professional or Azure Solutions Architect Expert
Desired: CISSP, SABSA, DAWIA PM Practitioner, GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC), FITSP-D, GIAC Cloud Security Automation (GCSA), GIAC Information Security Fundamentals (GISF), (ISC)2 Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP)

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Cloud Architecture Portfolio: Demonstrate expertise in cloud architecture by showcasing previous cloud migration projects, cloud-native solution designs, and security compliance implementations.
Security Compliance Documentation: Include detailed security compliance reports, migration plans, and contingency plans for DoD systems.
Stakeholder Management Case Studies: Highlight successful cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder management experiences, focusing on technical guidance and project management.

Technical Documentation:

Architectural Diagrams: Prepare detailed architectural diagrams illustrating cloud-native solution designs, microservices architecture, and API designs.
Security Compliance Reports: Develop comprehensive security compliance reports, including NIST, FISMA, DoD Directive 8140, and DoD security framework compliance.
Migration Plans: Create detailed migration plans outlining the strategic migration of legacy DoD systems to secure cloud environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong portfolio demonstrating cloud architecture expertise, security compliance, and stakeholder management, with a focus on mission-critical DoD applications and strategic planning.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Due to the highly specialized nature of this role, the salary range is estimated to be between $150,000 and $180,000 per year, based on industry standards for senior cloud architecture roles with DoD experience.

Benefits:

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) retirement plan with company match
Generous paid time off (PTO) and holiday schedule
Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities
Employee assistance program (EAP)

Working Hours: This role requires a standard 40-hour workweek, with the possibility of occasional overtime or on-call duties to support mission-critical projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range for this role is estimated based on industry standards for senior cloud architecture roles with DoD experience, regional market data, and the company's size and reputation.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Bowhead operates in the defense and government services sector, providing mission-critical support to the Department of Defense and other government agencies.

Company Size: As a mid-sized company, Bowhead offers a collaborative and agile work environment, with a strong focus on customer satisfaction and employee growth.

Founded: Bowhead was founded in 1994 and has since grown to become a trusted provider of IT and engineering services to the defense and intelligence communities.

Team Structure:

Cloud Architecture Team: Collaborate with a dedicated team of cloud architects, focusing on strategic planning, design, and implementation of cloud-native solutions for mission-critical DoD applications.
Cross-Functional Teams: Work closely with development teams, junior architects, and other stakeholders to ensure project success and meet contract requirements.
Government Representatives: Interface with government representatives to ensure compliance with federal security standards and meet J6 timelines.

Development Methodology:

Agile/Scrum Methodologies: Utilize Agile/Scrum methodologies for cloud project management, including sprint planning, daily stand-ups, and regular retrospectives.
Code Review & Testing: Implement code review processes and testing strategies to ensure the quality and security of cloud-native solutions.
Deployment Strategies: Employ CI/CD pipelines and automated deployment strategies to streamline the release process and minimize manual intervention.

Company Website: https://www.bowhead.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Bowhead's company culture emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and customer focus, with a strong commitment to supporting the defense and government services sector.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Web Technology Career Level: This role is a senior-level position within the cloud architecture career path, focusing on strategic planning, design, and implementation of mission-critical DoD applications.

Reporting Structure: Report directly to the Program Manager, with indirect reporting to the Vice President of Engineering and the Chief Technology Officer.

Technical Impact: This role has a significant impact on the successful migration of legacy DoD systems to secure cloud environments, ensuring compliance with federal security standards and meeting J6 timelines.

Growth Opportunities:

Technical Leadership: Develop expertise in emerging cloud technologies and security trends, with the potential to advance to a principal cloud architect or cloud engineering manager role.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Expand skills and knowledge in project management, stakeholder management, and other cross-functional areas to support career growth within the organization.
Mentorship & Knowledge Sharing: Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior architects and development teams, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant growth potential within the cloud architecture career path, with opportunities to develop technical expertise, expand cross-functional skills, and advance to leadership positions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Bowhead's work environment is a hybrid of on-site and remote work, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and communication between team members.

Office Location(s): The primary office location for this role is in Arlington, Virginia, with the possibility of occasional travel to other customer sites or Bowhead offices.

Workspace Context:

Collaborative Workspace: Work in a dedicated, collaborative workspace designed to facilitate team communication and knowledge sharing.
Technical Tools & Equipment: Utilize state-of-the-art tools and equipment, including multiple monitors, high-performance workstations, and secure access to customer environments.
Cross-Functional Interaction: Interact with cross-functional teams, including development teams, junior architects, and other stakeholders, to ensure project success and meet contract requirements.

Work Schedule: This role requires a standard 40-hour workweek, with the possibility of occasional overtime or on-call duties to support mission-critical projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Bowhead's work environment emphasizes collaboration, communication, and knowledge sharing, with a focus on supporting the defense and government services sector.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

Phone or Video Screen: A brief phone or video screen to assess communication skills, cultural fit, and basic technical knowledge.
Technical Deep Dive: A comprehensive technical interview focusing on cloud architecture, security compliance, and stakeholder management, with a case study or architecture design exercise.
On-Site or Final Video Interview: A final on-site or video interview with key stakeholders, including the Program Manager, Vice President of Engineering, and other senior team members.
Background Check & Clearance: A thorough background check and security clearance process, including Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility and SAP eligibility.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Cloud Architecture Portfolio: Highlight previous cloud migration projects, cloud-native solution designs, and security compliance implementations, focusing on mission-critical DoD applications.
Security Compliance Documentation: Include detailed security compliance reports, migration plans, and contingency plans for DoD systems, demonstrating a strong understanding of federal security standards.
Stakeholder Management Case Studies: Prepare case studies illustrating successful cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder management experiences, with a focus on technical guidance and project management.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

Cloud Architecture Challenges: Brush up on cloud architecture best practices, security compliance standards, and stakeholder management strategies to excel in technical challenges and case studies.
Problem-Solving & Communication: Develop strong problem-solving skills and communication techniques to articulate complex cloud architecture concepts and trade-offs effectively.

ATS Keywords: [Comprehensive list of cloud architecture, security compliance, and stakeholder management keywords for resume optimization, organized by category: cloud platforms, security standards, project management, and soft skills]

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role is designed to assess technical expertise in cloud architecture, security compliance, and stakeholder management, with a focus on mission-critical DoD applications and strategic planning.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

Cloud Platforms:

AWS GovCloud: Expert knowledge of AWS GovCloud services, including IAM, VPC, EC2, RDS, and other government-specific services.
Azure Government: Proficiency in Azure Government services, including Azure Active Directory, Virtual Networks, Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS), and other government-specific services.
GCP: Familiarity with GCP services, including IAM, VPC, Compute Engine, Cloud SQL, and other government-compliant services.

Containerization Technologies:

Docker: Proficiency in Docker for containerization and orchestration of microservices applications.
Kubernetes: Experience with Kubernetes for container orchestration, cluster management, and service discovery.

Infrastructure as Code (IaC):

Terraform: Experience with Terraform for infrastructure as code, provisioning, and management of cloud resources.
CloudFormation: Familiarity with AWS CloudFormation for infrastructure as code, provisioning, and management of AWS resources.

Microservices Architecture & API Design:

API Design: Strong understanding of API design principles, RESTful APIs, and gRPC for microservices communication.
Microservices Architecture: Experience with microservices architecture patterns, service discovery, and inter-service communication.

CI/CD Pipelines & DevSecOps Practices:

CI/CD Pipelines: Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines, including Jenkins, GitLab CI/CD, or other pipeline tools for automated deployment and release management.
DevSecOps Practices: Experience with DevSecOps practices, including infrastructure as code, automated testing, and security compliance.

Database Migration Strategies & Data Architecture:

Database Migration: Familiarity with database migration strategies, including schema migration, data migration, and change data capture techniques.
Data Architecture: Experience with data architecture design, data modeling, and database optimization for mission-critical DoD applications.

Cryptonet Management Workstation (CMW) & Crypto Status Communication Protocols:

CMW: Experience with CMW for cryptographic key management, including key generation, distribution, and revocation.
Crypto Status Communication Protocols: Familiarity with crypto status communication protocols, including X.509, PKI, and other cryptographic standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong understanding of cloud platforms, containerization technologies, infrastructure as code, microservices architecture, and other relevant technologies for mission-critical DoD applications and strategic planning.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Cloud Architecture Values:

Customer Focus: Prioritize customer needs and ensure the successful migration of legacy DoD systems to secure cloud environments, meeting federal security standards and J6 timelines.
Innovation: Embrace emerging cloud technologies and security trends to drive strategic planning and continuous improvement.
Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including development teams, junior architects, and other stakeholders, to ensure project success and meet contract requirements.
Quality & Security: Maintain a strong commitment to quality and security, ensuring compliance with federal security standards and best practices.

Collaboration Style:

Cross-Functional Integration: Work closely with development teams, junior architects, and other stakeholders to ensure project success and meet contract requirements.
Code Review Culture: Implement code review processes and testing strategies to ensure the quality and security of cloud-native solutions.
Knowledge Sharing: Foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement, sharing technical expertise and best practices with team members and other stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: Bowhead's cloud architecture team values customer focus, innovation, collaboration, and quality, with a strong commitment to supporting the defense and government services sector.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

Cloud Migration Challenges: Address complex legacy DoD system migrations, ensuring compliance with federal security standards and meeting J6 timelines.
Security Compliance Challenges: Implement and maintain security controls compliant with NIST, FISMA, DoD Directive 8140, and DoD security frameworks while ensuring operational continuity throughout migration processes.
Emerging Technologies: Stay up-to-date with emerging cloud technologies and security trends, integrating new tools and services into cloud-native solution designs.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Technical Skill Development: Develop expertise in emerging cloud technologies, security trends, and other relevant technologies for mission-critical DoD applications and strategic planning.
Leadership Development: Expand cross-functional skills and knowledge in project management, stakeholder management, and other leadership areas to support career growth within the organization.
Mentorship & Knowledge Sharing: Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior architects and development teams, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant technical challenges and growth opportunities, with a focus on cloud migration, security compliance, and emerging technologies for mission-critical DoD applications and strategic planning.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

Cloud Architecture Fundamentals: Demonstrate a strong understanding of cloud architecture principles, cloud migration strategies, and security compliance standards for mission-critical DoD applications.
Cloud Platform Expertise: Showcase expertise in AWS GovCloud, Azure Government, and other FedRAMP-authorized cloud platforms, including relevant services, best practices, and use cases.
Problem-Solving & Trade-offs: Articulate complex cloud architecture concepts and trade-offs effectively, demonstrating strong problem-solving skills and technical communication abilities.

Company & Culture Questions:

Bowhead Culture: Research Bowhead's company culture, values, and mission, focusing on supporting the defense and government services sector and fostering a collaborative work environment.
Cloud Architecture Team Dynamics: Understand the structure, dynamics, and goals of Bowhead's cloud architecture team, focusing on collaboration, innovation, and customer focus.
Mission-Critical DoD Applications: Familiarize yourself with mission-critical DoD applications, operational requirements, and the unique challenges and opportunities of working with the Department of Defense.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Cloud Architecture Portfolio: Highlight previous cloud migration projects, cloud-native solution designs, and security compliance implementations, focusing on mission-critical DoD applications.
Security Compliance Documentation: Include detailed security compliance reports, migration plans, and contingency plans for DoD systems, demonstrating a strong understanding of federal security standards.
Stakeholder Management Case Studies: Prepare case studies illustrating successful cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder management experiences, with a focus on technical guidance and project management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role is designed to assess technical expertise in cloud architecture, security compliance, and stakeholder management, with a focus on mission-critical DoD applications and strategic planning.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Systems Contract Manager - Cloud Architecture position at Bowhead:

Tailor Your Resume: Highlight relevant cloud architecture, security compliance, and stakeholder management experience, focusing on mission-critical DoD applications and strategic planning.
Prepare Your Portfolio: Showcase previous cloud migration projects, cloud-native solution designs, and security compliance implementations, with a focus on mission-critical DoD applications.
Research Bowhead: Familiarize yourself with Bowhead's company culture, values, and mission, focusing on supporting the defense and government services sector and fostering a collaborative work environment.
Prepare for Technical Interviews: Brush up on cloud architecture best practices, security compliance standards, and stakeholder management strategies to excel in technical challenges and case studies.
Practice Problem-Solving & Communication: Develop strong problem-solving skills and communication techniques to articulate complex cloud architecture concepts and trade-offs effectively.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and web development/server administration industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

Senior Systems Contract Manager - Cloud Architecture