About the Role: AFS is searching for Principal Kubernetes Solutions Architect to drive the design, deployment, and automation of Kubernetes-based platforms. This leadership role focuses on architecting secure, scalable, and highly available container orchestration environments to support business-critical workloads. The ideal candidate excels at building robust Kubernetes clusters and enabling development teams to maximize platform capabilities.

As a recognized expert in Kubernetes, you will leverage your deep experience in cluster management, security, and scaling to deliver resilient containerized solutions. Your advanced skills in Infrastructure as Code, CI/CD pipelines, and cloud-native automation will empower development teams to efficiently utilize self-service Kubernetes platforms.

While the primary focus is Kubernetes, expertise with hybrid and private cloud environments such as VMware vSphere or OpenShift further distinguishes candidates.

Responsibilities:

• Architect, build, and maintain Kubernetes clusters with an emphasis on scalability, reliability, and security, utilizing best practices for cluster lifecycle management.

• Manage core Kubernetes services, including networking, storage, workload scheduling, and RBAC for access control.

• Oversee containerized workloads, ensuring high availability, efficient scaling, and robust security for multi-tenant environments.

• Architect, build, and maintain Kubernetes clusters with a strong focus on scalability, reliability, and security, applying best practices for cluster lifecycle management while overseeing core Kubernetes services including networking, storage, workload scheduling, and RBAC for access control.

• Design, implement, and manage Kubernetes Operators to automate operational tasks and lifecycle management of complex applications. Leverage both custom-built and existing Operators to streamline deployment, monitoring, and maintenance of workloads, ensuring consistency and reliability across environments.

• Drive Infrastructure as Code (IaC) initiatives using tools like Terraform to automate Kubernetes resource provisioning.

• Design, implement, and optimize CI/CD pipelines for containerized applications, embedding security controls throughout the pipeline.

• Build custom automation tools and scripts (Python, Go, Bash) to enhance Kubernetes operations and minimize manual tasks, leveraging APIs for integration.

• Serve as the Kubernetes subject-matter expert, mentoring development teams and guiding optimal use of container orchestration technologies.

• Collaborate with stakeholders to assess new Kubernetes-native solutions and recommend enhancements to platform efficiency and capabilities.

• Promote best practices in Git workflows and the use of AI tools to accelerate the development and troubleshooting of container-based applications.

• Break down large projects into actionable tasks for junior team members.

Required Skills & Experience:

• 10 years of relevant experience in any of the following:

• Advanced proficiency with Infrastructure as Code (IaC), especially Terraform, including, but not limited to targeted applies, imports, and complex module usage.
• Significant experience architecting, deploying, and managing Kubernetes clusters (Amazon EKS or equivalent).
• Strong command of Kubernetes RBAC, security policies, and best practices.
• Demonstrated experience designing, building, and maintaining automated CI/CD pipelines for containerized workloads.
• Thorough understanding of Kubernetes networking, Linux/Unix systems, and platform security.
• Proficiency with Git and GitOps workflows for Kubernetes resource management.

• Must hold and maintain DoD 8140 certifications.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with VMware vSphere or OpenShift in hybrid or private cloud contexts.

• Proven experience building custom Kubernetes operators.

• Familiarity with configuration management tools (e.g., Ansible).

• Exposure to public cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and DevOps methodologies.

• Advanced programming skills in Python, Go, or JavaScript/TypeScript.

• Understanding of authentication protocols including OIDC, OAuth2, LDAP, and SAML.

• Contributions to open-source Kubernetes or DevOps projects.

Relevant certifications:

• Kubernetes certifications such as Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA), Certified Kubernetes Application Developer (CKAD), Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist (CKS), and Kubestronaut.

Clearance

An active TS/SCI federal security clearance is required