Cloud Architect

Role Overview We are looking for a Cloud Architect to lead Google Cloud migration and modernization projects . This role involves working closely with Google Cloud and Valiance's sales and engineering teams to support pre-sales, proof of concept (PoC) development, solution design, and successful cloud migration deliveries . The ideal candidate must have hands-on experience with Google Cloud and a proven track record of infrastructure and application modernization projects. Key Responsibilities Pre-Sales & Solution Design: Collaborate with sales teams and Google Cloud to identify migration and modernization opportunities in greenfield accounts (on-premise or other cloud platforms like AWS/Azure). Conduct technical discovery and assessment of customer workloads to determine feasibility, challenges, and best approaches for Google Cloud adoption. Develop and deliver Proof of Concepts (PoCs) for clients, showcasing the value of Google Cloud infrastructure and services. Create Bill of Materials (BoM) for Google Cloud services, including cost estimation and architectural recommendations. Support the sales motion by conducting technical deep-dive sessions, architecture reviews, and demo presentations for customers. Cloud Migration & Modernization: Lead end-to-end cloud migration projects , ensuring seamless transition from on-premise or AWS/Azure to Google Cloud. Design and implement secure, scalable, and cost-optimized cloud architectures following best practices. Leverage Google Cloud-native services like Anthos, GKE, BigQuery, Cloud Run, Cloud Functions, and Cloud SQL for application modernization. Guide development and DevOps teams on CI/CD pipelines, infrastructure as code (Terraform), and automation frameworks for cloud-native deployments. Optimize cloud environments for performance, reliability, security, and cost-efficiency . Stakeholder Collaboration & Delivery Leadership: Work closely with Google Cloud teams, Valiance's internal engineering teams, and client stakeholders to ensure smooth project execution. Provide technical leadership and mentoring to internal teams and customers on best practices in cloud architecture and migration strategies . Drive cloud adoption initiatives by creating whitepapers, best practices documentation, and case studies for client success stories. Troubleshoot and resolve complex cloud infrastructure challenges , ensuring minimal disruption and maximum efficiency. Required Skills & Qualifications 8+ years of overall IT experience , with at least 3 years working on Google Cloud. Strong hands-on experience in Google Cloud services , including Compute Engine, GKE, Cloud SQL, BigQuery, Cloud Storage, Cloud Functions, and IAM security policies. Expertise in cloud migration strategies (lift-and-shift, re-platforming, and re-architecting applications for the cloud). Strong knowledge of networking, security, IAM, and compliance frameworks on Google Cloud. Experience with Terraform, Infrastructure as Code (IaC), and CI/CD pipelines . Hands-on experience in containers (Docker, Kubernetes, Anthos) and microservices architecture. Experience working with DevOps methodologies and tools (Jenkins, GitOps, Helm, etc.) . Familiarity with hybrid cloud and multi-cloud strategies . Strong understanding of cost optimization techniques and FinOps practices on Google Cloud. Excellent communication, client-facing, and stakeholder management skills. Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect certification is a plus .