Cloud SME (Secret) (4442)

SMX is seeking Cloud Subject Matter Experts (Junior/Mid/Senior) supporting the design and implementation of secure, scalable multi-cloud infrastructure and services in support of enterprise analytics and mission-critical systems for the United States Air Force. Responsible for the design, development, implementation, migration, and utilization of cloud solutions, strategies, processes, and standards. Establishes and oversees standards for cloud operations according to client specifications and parameters. Collaborates with Government personnel, project managers, engineers, security professionals, development teams, and infrastructure services to define, establish, and communicate application and data architecture standards, policies, and directions. Must be able to identify and explain the most optimal cloud-based solutions/options and aid in technical discussions between customers and cloud providers, vendors, stakeholders, and DoD agencies. Must be familiar with and differentiate between Platform as a Service (PaaS), Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS) models. In addition, you may serve as the expert in advising clients and customers on technical aspects of implementing native, hybrid, and multi-cloud environments, infrastructure, security, operating at the edge, zero trust, enterprise/managed services, etc. Utilizes subject matter area expertise gained through direct industry experience to provide technical, managerial, and administrative direction for problem definition, analysis, requirements development and implementation for complex to extremely complex cloud environments. Guides the determination of IT, engineering, and business process inadequacies and deficiencies that affect the functional area’s ability to support/meet organizational goals. Participates in strategy sessions, strategic assessments, and design reviews to validate enterprise approach and associated work products. Provides guidance and direction to other professionals, acts in a consulting and/or advisory capacity, coordinates resolution of highly complex problems and tasks. Makes recommendations and advises on organization-wide system improvements, optimization, or maintenance efforts.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Demonstrate technical expertise in cloud computing technologies, configurations, and environments (hybrid, native, multi-cloud, on-prem, etc)
• Provide support to various customers (from assisting with market research requests to high-level design considerations)
• Conduct various levels of cloud analysis research, product building, presentations and delivery, including cloud service comparisons and provide technical expertise and recommendations to leadership
• Identify “best in breed” cloud solutions supporting cloud governance and policy-making for leadership
• Build and/or analyze use cases
• Analyze and/or develop high-level reference architectures
• Lead technical discussions in customer, partner engagements, and leadership meetings

Required Skills & Experience 

• Must have Bachelor's Degree or equivalent certification plus 4-7 years' experience for mid-level, 10 years' experience for senior-level and 15 years' experience for SME-level
• Active Security Clearance Required: Secret
• 4 years of technical cloud experience
• Experience in cloud architectures, including native services for compute, storage, networking, security, and automation
• Strong cloud ecosystem knowledge and technical background
• Demonstrated ability to lead enterprise-scale system integrations and automation projects
• Familiarity with cloud governance tools (e.g., Xacta, eMASS) and experience supporting Authority to Operate (ATO) processes
• Understanding of C4I systems
• Ability to articulate and clearly communicate complex problems and solutions in a simple, logical, and impactful manner
• Knowledge of Windows operating environments
• Familiarity with RMF, NIST 800-53, STIGs, and basic cloud security principles

Desired Skills & Experience 

• Prior experience supporting United States Air Force cloud programs
• Experience in modern DevSecOps concepts
• Cloud certification(s)

Application Deadline:  January 26, 2026

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 The SMX salary determination process takes into account a number of factors, including but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories, relevant prior work experience, specific skills, education and certifications. At SMX, one of our Core Values is to Invest in Our People so we offer a competitive mix of compensation, learning & development opportunities, and benefits. Some key components of our robust benefits include health insurance, paid leave, and retirement.

The proposed salary for this position is:: $103,200 USD - $172,000 USD

At SMX®, we are a team of technical and domain experts dedicated to enabling your mission. From priority national security initiatives for the DoD to highly assured and compliant solutions for healthcare, we understand that digital transformation is key to your future success.

We share your vision for the future and strive to accelerate your impact on the world. We bring both cutting edge technology and an expansive view of what’s possible to every engagement. Our delivery model and unique approaches harness our deep technical and domain knowledge, providing forward-looking insights and practical solutions to power secure mission acceleration.

SMX is an Equal Opportunity employer including disabilities and veterans.

Selected applicant may be subject to a background investigation and/or education verification.

SMX does not sponsor a new applicant for employment authorization or immigration related support for this position (i.e. H1B, F-1 OPT, F-1 STEM OPT, F-1 CPT, J-1, TN, E-2, E-3, L-1 and O-1, or any EADs or other forms of work authorization that require immigration support from an employer).