Okay, I've searched for Cloud Architect Systems Engineer roles in Scott AFB, IL that are full-time, require 10+ years of experience, an active DoD Secret Clearance, and proficiency in AWS and Azure cloud platforms. I have found several positions matching your criteria.

Sure. Here's the analysis:

Job Analysis:

The Cloud Architect Systems Engineer role at Diligent serves a critical function in supporting the U.S. Transportation Command's IT modernization and security efforts. Fundamentally, this person is hired to design, implement, and optimize secure cloud solutions that meet stringent Department of Defense (DoD) standards, ensuring mission-critical systems remain resilient and operational. The responsibilities extend beyond technical implementation to strategic advisory work, requiring leadership in migration planning, cloud security architecture, and systems engineering throughout the development lifecycle. This role is highly specialized, demanding extensive experience with AWS and Azure environments, cloud security frameworks like Zero Trust, and advanced scripting and automation tools to maintain and improve infrastructure robustness. The candidate must navigate complex military regulatory landscapes (e.g., DoD cloud policies, GovCloud specifics), integrate diverse technologies (network appliances, virtualization, container platforms), and respond effectively to urgent operational demands, including after-hours support. Success here is demonstrated by delivering secure, scalable, and compliant cloud infrastructure that supports USTRANSCOM’s mission continuity and innovation goals, while also enabling smooth collaboration with government stakeholders often under high pressure and evolving requirements.

Company Analysis:

Diligent Consulting Inc. is positioned as a mature, reliable IT services provider with an emphasis on quality and compliance, demonstrated by its CMMI Level 3 and ISO 9001 certifications. As a Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business, it operates with a mission-conscious culture that values integrity, professionalism, and supporting national security mandates. This suggests a work environment that is disciplined but also deeply mission-driven, with a strong focus on technical excellence and rapid adaptation to military customer needs. For the Cloud Architect role, this environment means being part of a collaborative expert team where innovation aligns closely with operational and security imperatives; it’s not just about technology but about enabling critical defense operations. The role likely involves significant interaction with government clients and internal teams, requiring excellent communication alongside technical prowess. Strategically, the hire supports scaling and modernization efforts for USTRANSCOM’s infrastructure, reflecting Diligent’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge, compliant solutions that keep pace with evolving defense challenges. The company’s established reputation and contract portfolio indicate a stable yet constantly evolving setting, favoring candidates comfortable with both high technical standards and mission impact.

Absolutely. Here are some mock interview questions that could come up:

• Behavioral: Can you describe a time when you led a cloud migration project under strict regulatory constraints? How did you manage stakeholder expectations and technical challenges?
• Behavioral: Tell me about a situation where you had to troubleshoot a critical cloud infrastructure issue during off-hours. How did you approach resolving it quickly?
• Behavioral: Describe an experience working with cross-functional teams, including government clients, to deliver secure cloud solutions. How did you ensure alignment and communication?
• Behavioral: Share an example of how you implemented automation to improve cloud system reliability or security. What was the impact on the operation?
• Technical: How would you design a cloud architecture that meets DoD security policies, including compliance with Zero Trust principles?
• Technical: Explain your experience with Infrastructure as Code (IaC) tools like Terraform or CloudFormation in a high-security environment. How have you leveraged these tools to enhance cloud deployments?
• Technical: What strategies do you use to secure AWS GovCloud environments, particularly regarding network appliances and identity management?
• Technical: Can you walk me through your process for conducting trade studies and technology evaluations when selecting cloud services for mission-critical systems?
• Situational: Imagine a critical security vulnerability is discovered in your cloud infrastructure. What immediate steps would you take to mitigate risk and communicate with stakeholders?
• Situational: Suppose you receive conflicting requirements from different government stakeholders for a cloud migration plan. How do you reconcile these differences to move forward effectively?
• Situational: You are tasked with automating configuration management for a hybrid cloud environment under tight deadlines. How would you prioritize and execute this task?
• Company Fit/Motivation: Why are you interested in contributing to Diligent’s mission supporting USTRANSCOM and related defense operations?
• Company Fit/Motivation: How do your personal values and work style align with Diligent's emphasis on integrity, professionalism, and customer mission success?
• Company Fit/Motivation: What excites you most about working in a Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business within the government IT space?
• Questions for Interviewer: Can you describe how the Cloud Architect collaborates with other teams within Diligent and with government clients on a day-to-day basis?
• Questions for Interviewer: What are the biggest technical challenges currently faced by the cloud architecture team supporting USTRANSCOM?
• Questions for Interviewer: How does Diligent support professional development and certification opportunities for this role given the fast-evolving cloud technology landscape?