Job ID: JOB_ID_1224
Role Overview: Senior Information Security Architect (AWS Focus)
As we move into 2026, the landscape of cloud security has evolved to require a sophisticated blend of traditional infrastructure protection and cutting-edge AI integration. We are seeking a Senior Cloud Security Architect for a high-impact, one-year contract-to-hire engagement. This role is based in Reston, VA, with a hybrid requirement of three days onsite per week. The successful candidate will lead the AWS Security architecture program across multiple concurrent projects, serving as a primary liaison between Product Owners and Enterprise Architects.
Core Responsibilities and Technical Leadership
- Architect and implement robust security controls within AWS environments, ensuring strict adherence to enterprise policies and industry frameworks such as NIST, OWASP, and FedRAMP.
- Lead threat modeling sessions to identify potential vulnerabilities in system designs and engineer proactive mitigating controls.
- Oversee Data Security initiatives, including advanced encryption, masking, tokenization, and granular access control mechanisms.
- Drive the security integration of GenAI and Machine Learning workflows, ensuring that AI-driven applications maintain data integrity and privacy.
- Manage complex IAM (Identity and Access Management) structures, resource policies, and network security configurations to maintain a zero-trust architecture.
- Collaborate with DevOps teams to integrate security into CI/CD pipelines (DevSecOps), ensuring automated security scanning and compliance checks.
- Provide expert guidance on AWS services including Compute, RDS, ECS/EKS, Serverless, and Messaging systems.
Strategic Impact and Collaboration
This is not merely a technical role; it is a leadership position requiring a ‘self-starter’ mentality. You will be responsible for defining the security posture for large-scale systems architecture, focusing on resiliency, high availability, and stateless design. Your expertise in API-driven architecture and SaaS integration will be critical as we scale our cloud footprint. The role demands a multitasking professional who can navigate the complexities of Business Security Architecture while maintaining hands-on technical proficiency in AWS security pillars.
Qualifications and Expectations
- Proven track record in Public Cloud architecture, specifically deep expertise in AWS.
- Extensive experience with security tools such as SIEM, CSPM, CWPP, and Container Security platforms.
- Familiarity with industry standards including ISO, SOX, and CIS benchmarks.
- Strong communication skills to facilitate ‘Spotlight Calls’ and stakeholder presentations.
- Ability to work in a competitive source environment with a focus on delivery and compliance.
In the current 2026 market, a Senior Architect in the Northern Virginia tech corridor is expected to command a premium salary reflecting the scarcity of dual expertise in AWS Security and Generative AI. This position offers a pathway to permanent employment after a six-month evaluation period, providing a stable yet dynamic career trajectory in one of the nation’s leading technology hubs.
Special Requirements
Any Visa accepted; 2 Rounds of Interview (1st video, Final onsite); Hybrid 3x weekly onsite in Reston; Potential C2H after 6 months.
Compensation & Location
Salary: $185,000 – $235,000 per year
Location: Reston, VA
Recruiter / Company – Contact Information
Recruiter / Employer: WorkNovas LLC
Email: raj.kumar@worknovasllc.com
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