Cloud/DevOps Engineer

Agency

Department

The Cloud/DevOps Engineer, under the supervision of the Data Team Lead, is responsible for designing, implementing, and managing the Azure cloud infrastructure that underpins TCWP’s data platform. This role ensures high availability, scalability, and cost-effective performance by optimizing storage, query execution, and API reliability, all while enforcing robust security and compliance measures.

The Cloud/DevOps Engineer works within an Agile team environment, leveraging both local and cloud-based development platforms to build innovative solutions. Collaborates closely with in-house and external development teams, fostering a dynamic setting for continuous learning and growth in technical expertise and team collaboration.

• Supports and contributes to the data production team and the application development teams.

• Designs, implements, and maintains Azure cloud infrastructure for the in-house data platform.

• Optimizes query performance, caching, and cloud storage (Azure Blob, Data Lake, Databricks, Cosmos DB).

• Implements automated CI/CD pipelines for system updates and deployments.

• Monitors system reliability, uptime, and performance (Site Reliability Engineering principles).

• Manages cost control and optimization strategies to ensure long-term sustainability.

• Ensures security best practices (RBAC, IAM, encryption, logging, vulnerability scanning).

• Works with external consultants to transition cloud operations and API hosting.

• Creates and maintains clear documentation for internal teams and external collaborators. Reviews system and program documentation for accuracy and completeness.

• Makes recommendations for improvement of programming tools and DevOps strategies as part of the development process.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Five years of related experience.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.

Preferred Education and Experience:

• Master’s or PhD in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.

• A minimum of 5 years’ experience in cloud infrastructure management, DevOps automation, and IT operations. Prior experience with geospatial data systems and performance tuning is an advantage.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Strong experience with Azure Cloud (Databricks, Blob Storage, Functions, AKS, IAM).

• Expertise in DevOps automation (Terraform, Kubernetes, Docker, CI/CD).

• Familiarity with geospatial cloud infrastructure and database performance tuning.

• Proficiency in scripting languages (Python, Bash, PowerShell).

• Strong knowledge of security best practices and compliance (SOC 2, NIST, FAIR data).

Preferred Certifications:

• Azure, Kubernetes, or DevOps certifications are highly desirable.

Other Requirements:

Administrative physical demands:

• May require extended bending, reaching, stooping, kneeling, squatting, and sitting.

• May require lifting workshop and outreach equipment, up to 30 pounds.

• May require extended communication with visitors and employees in person, telephonically or electronically.

• May require infrequent travel in State vehicles with overnight stays.

• May require operating computers with high-definition screens for extended periods of time.

On-Site/Remote Work Policy:

• During the first 90 days of employment, this position is expected to work on-site Monday through Friday to facilitate project onboarding, team integration, and familiarity with our systems. After a positive 90-day evaluation, employees may request one day of remote work a week subject to supervisor approval and Texas A&M AgriLife policies.

All applicants must submit a cover letter, resume and list of three references.

This is a grant funded position.

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.