Principal GCP Cloud Architect

About the role

As a Principal GCP Cloud Architect, you will make an impact by shaping and evolving enterprise-scale Google Cloud Platform (GCP) environments that are secure, resilient, and performance-driven. Your work will directly enable large-scale cloud migrations, strengthen network and security postures, and modernize infrastructure through automation. You'll influence architectural direction, guide complex technical decisions, and partner closely with engineering and security teams to deliver scalable cloud solutions that support business growth. You will be a valued member of the Cloud Infrastructure and Security team and work collaboratively with the Engagement Delivery Lead.

In this role, you will:

• Lead end-to-end Google Cloud Platform (GCP) architecture initiatives with a strong focus on networking, security, scalability, and performance.
• Design and implement enterprise and hybrid-cloud network architectures including VPCs, subnets, firewall rules, load balancing, Cloud DNS, Cloud NAT, and Network Connectivity Center (NCC).
• Define and drive cloud migration and modernization strategies for on-prem and legacy workloads, ensuring minimal downtime and optimized performance.
• Establish and enforce cloud security and compliance standards, including IAM, encryption, network security controls,and alignment with regulatory frameworks.
• Partner with security teams on advanced network security solutions, including next-generation firewalls like Palo Alto.
• Implement Infrastructure as Code using Terraform and integrate provisioning and configuration into CI/CD pipelines.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex networking, connectivity, latency, and performance challenges across large-scale environments.
• Collaborate closely with application, platform, and security teams to align cloud architecture with business objectives.
• Provide technical leadership through architectural guidance, design reviews, and clear communication with stakeholders.

Work model

At Cognizant, we strive to provide flexibility wherever possible, and we are here to support a healthy work-life balance though our various wellbeing programs. Based on this role's business requirements, this is an onsite position requiring 5 days a week in a client or Cognizant office in Palm Beach, Florida.

The working arrangements for this role are accurate as of the date of posting. This may change based on the project you're engaged in, as well as business and client requirements. Rest assured; we will always be clear about role expectations.

What you need to have to be considered:

• 15+ years of experience in IT infrastructure and cloud architecture, including 4+ years designing and implementing solutions on Google Cloud Platform.
• Google Professional Cloud Architect certification; Google Professional Cloud Network Engineer preferred.
• Deep expertise in networking fundamentals including TCP/IP, DNS, routing, VPNs, and hybrid connectivity.
• Strong hands-on experience with GCP services such as VPC, Load Balancing, Cloud Armor, Interconnect, and Cloud Router.
• Experience with Kubernetes and container networking, including GKE.
• Exposure to multi-cloud networking across GCP, AWS, and Azure.
• Proficiency with Infrastructure as Code tools such as Terraform; experience with Ansible or similar tools is an asset.

These will help you stand out:

• Strong understanding of cloud security principles including IAM, encryption, and network security best practices.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and technical leadership skills.

We're excited to meet people who share our mission and can make an impact in a variety of ways. Don't hesitate to apply, even if you only meet the minimum requirements listed.

Think about your transferable experiences and unique skills that make you stand out as someone who can bring new and exciting things to this role.