Consultant, Cloud Security Architect   Avanade is seeking a Cloud Security Architect to lead the charge in securing our clients’ cloud environments. In this role, you’ll assess cloud infrastructures, uncover vulnerabilities, and design tailored remediation strategies that strengthen security and ensure compliance. You’ll combine deep technical expertise with a strategic mindset, focusing on both hands-on security controls and governance frameworks. As a trusted advisor, you’ll work directly with clients—guiding them through security assessments, architecture reviews, and implementation roadmaps that support scalable, secure cloud operations. Come join us As a Cloud Security Architect, you will play an active role in transforming our clients’ approach to cloud security across both public, and hybrid cloud services. Join us and establish yourself as a Leader in the Security space. Together we do what matters. Together, let’s transform cybersecurity. What you’ll do * 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.   Skills and experiences  Required skills * 5+ years of 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. * Ability to communicate complex security concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. * Strong written and verbal communication and documentation skills. * 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. Required certifications * Microsoft Certified: Cybersecurity Architect Expert * ITIL Foundation Certification Preferred skills * Strong consulting experience with direct client engagement and workshop facilitation. * Bilingual proficiency is highly valued, as it enhances communication and collaboration across diverse client teams and global environments. * 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. About you  Characteristics that can spell success for this role:  * Consultative, collaborative, relationship builder  * Resilient, adaptable, flexible  * Intellectually curious and passionate about Microsoft Technologies (M365 Threat Protection (Defender for Cloud, Defender for Cloud Apps, Defender for endpoint, Office, Identity)    * Problem-solver, patient and quality-driven• * Self-motivating * Innovative mindset * You have an eye on the future - you are aware of emerging technologies in the Cyber Defense space Enjoy your career  Some of the best things about working at Avanade: * Opportunity to work for Microsoft’s Global Alliance Partner of the Year (14 years in a row), with exceptional development and training (minimum 80 hours per year for training and paid certifications)   * Real-time access to technical and skilled resources globally   * Dedicated career advisor to encourage your growth  * Engaged and helpful coworkers genuinely interested in you      Find out more about some of our benefits [1] here.    A great place to work  As you bring your skills and abilities to Avanade, you’ll get distinctive experiences, limitless learning, and ambitious growth in return. As we continue to build our diverse and inclusive culture, we become even more innovative and creative, helping us better serve our clients and communities. You’ll join a community of smart, supportive collaborators to lift, mentor, and guide you, and to lean on your expertise. You get a company purpose-built for business-critical, leading-edge technology solutions, committed to improving the way humans work, interact, and live. It’s all here, so take a closer look! We work hard to provide an inclusive, diverse culture with a deep sense of belonging for all our employees. Visit our [2] Inclusion & Diversity page.    Create a future for our people that focuses on  • Expanding your thinking   • Experimenting courageously   • Learning and pivoting     Inspire greatness in our people by  • Empowering every voice   • Encouraging boldness   • Celebrating progress      Accelerate the impact of our people by  • Amazing the client   • Prioritizing what matters    • Acting as one    Learn more   To learn more about the types of projects our Security team works on check out this information:  * [3] https://www.avanade.com/en/thinking/research-and-insights/avanade-presents/cybersecurity-for-nonprofits * [4] https://www.avanade.com/en/blogs/avanade-insights/security/catastrophic-cyber-attack Compensation for roles at Avanade varies depending on a wide array of factors including but not limited to the role, skill set and level of experience. As required by local law, Avanade provides a reasonable base salary range of compensation for roles that may be hired throughout Canada, as set forth below: Toronto, Calgary, Vancouver, Ottawa: $96,800 - $114,950 References Visible links 1. https://www.avanade.com/en-gb/career/benefits 2. https://www.avanade.com/en-us/about/responsible-business 3. https://www.avanade.com/en/thinking/research-and-insights/avanade-presents/cybersecurity-for-nonprofits 4. https://www.avanade.com/en/blogs/avanade-insights/security/catastrophic-cyber-attack We work hard to provide an inclusive, diverse culture with a deep sense of belonging for all our employees. Avanade believes that all persons are entitled to equal employment opportunities, and we do not discriminate against our employees, applicants, or job seekers because of their race, color, gender, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, or any other protect group status as defined by law.