**Overview** The Cloud Security Architect will be responsible for assessing and enhancing the security posture of client cloud environments, identifying vulnerabilities, and recommending remediation strategies. This role requires a strong focus on both technical security controls and process governance to ensure resilient, compliant, and secure cloud architectures. The Cloud Security Architect will engage directly with clients, guiding them through security assessments, architecture reviews, and implementation plans. **Key responsibilities** + Assess the security posture of customer cloud workloads and environments to identify vulnerabilities and gaps. + Recommend and design security interventions aligned with best practices and compliance requirements. + Evaluate and strengthen configurations for Azure security services, including Microsoft Defender for Cloud, Sentinel, Key Vault, Azure AD (Entra ID), Privileged Identity Management (PIM), Azure Policy, and governance and observability tools such as Azure Monitor and Log Analytics. + Lead and facilitate security architecture workshops, risk assessments, and governance reviews with client teams. + Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment between security, operations, and business objectives. + Conduct thorough security risk assessments and ensure mitigation strategies are implemented. + Drive continuous improvement of security processes and controls based on evolving threat landscapes and compliance frameworks. + Ensure adherence to industry frameworks and regulations such as NIST, ISO/IEC 27001, HIPAA, GDPR, and FedRAMP. **Required Qualifications** + Experience in cloud security architecture and assessment, specifically within Microsoft Azure environments. + Deep knowledge of Azure security architecture and cloud-native security resiliency patterns. + Strong experience with security frameworks and methodologies (e.g., NIST CSF, ISO/IEC 27001). + Proficient in vulnerability management, risk assessment, and security compliance standards. + Hands-on experience with Azure security and governance services: Microsoft Defender for Cloud, Sentinel, Key Vault, Azure AD (Entra ID), PIM, Azure Policy, Azure Monitor, and Log Analytics. + Familiarity with Microsoft Security Assessments, such as the Well-Architected Review Assessment (WARA) and Microsoft Security Assessment Frameworks. + Experience working directly with clients in customer-facing roles to deliver security assessments and solutions. + Solid understanding of process governance, security incident response planning, and Major Incident Response Plan (MIRP) development. **Preferred qualifications** + Consulting experience with direct client engagement and workshop facilitation. + Familiarity with SOC integration, security operations center workflows, and incident response coordination. + Experience with compliance frameworks such as HIPAA, GDPR, FedRAMP, or equivalent. + Expertise with SIEM/SOAR tools, automation, and security orchestration. + Proven track record delivering executive-level security architecture reviews and recommendations. **Certifications** **Required:** + Microsoft Certified: Cybersecurity Architect Expert + ITIL Foundation Certification **Preferred:** + Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer Associate + Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) + Microsoft Certified: Security Operations Analyst Associate + Microsoft Certified: Identity and Access Administrator Associate + Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate + Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery (BC/DR) certifications such as CBCP, MBCI, ISO 22301, or equivalent industry-recognized certifications. \#LI-CTSAPAC Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.