How to Hire a Cloud Architect: From Job Description to Interview

Cloud computing is a rapidly growing industry, due especially to the expansion of AI technologies and the increased need for cloud data centers. Developing cloud strategies and maintaining servers, platforms, networks, and deliveries for your company is essential. 

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that as technologies continue to advance, the cloud architect profession specifically will grow by as much as 13% by 2033. 

If you’re hiring a cloud architect, check out our tips for hiring the best fit for your team. Here are some of the topics we’ll cover: 

• Day-to-day responsibilities 
• Qualifications and certifications 
• Hard and soft skills to look for 
• Typical pay scale
• Interview preparation

What is a Cloud Architect?

As the title implies, managing and maintaining cloud computing architecture and developing the surrounding cloud strategy is the primary role of cloud architects. From software to hardware, cloud architects:  

• Facilitate the adoption of new technologies 
• Create security best practices 
• Implement strategies for cloud infrastructure 
• Monitor the application of cloud-based AI tools 

Cloud architects differ from cloud developers, who typically focus on designing and testing cloud-based applications. Architects look at the bigger picture, help their teams determine industry direction year over year, and execute security practices. 

Most cloud architects earn a degree in computer science or information technology (IT) and then earn relevant cloud certifications to further cultivate their skills. Typical titles can include language like solutions, infrastructure, data, or systems architect. 

Cloud Architect Job Description

Providing your interview candidates with a detailed job description is key for their success in the role. To best communicate your team’s needs for a top-tier architect, you’ll want to include necessary qualifications, typical job responsibilities, and a clear pay scale.

responsibilities

While the exact day-to-day duties can vary, here are some of the general responsibilities of a cloud architect: 

• Develop specific cloud strategies to use company-wide 
• Adopt new cloud technology and applications 
• Design new and upgrade old cloud infrastructure 
• Implement best practices for monitoring and maintaining cloud security 
• Optimize and troubleshoot the cloud 
• Create cloud applications based on company needs 

qualifications

Cloud architects have degrees in a variety of fields. While computer science and IT are most common, cloud architects may also have bachelor’s degrees in engineering, cybersecurity, and even business. 

Consider candidates with one or more cloud certifications outside of their standard degree and experience qualifications. While not required, certifications like the following demonstrate working knowledge of cloud technologies and go one step further than a more general computing degree. 

• CompTIA Cloud+ 
• Google Professional Cloud Architect 
• Microsoft Certified Azure Fundamentals 
• AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner 

Because a cloud architect isn’t usually an entry-level position, you’ll want to look for candidates who possess several years of experience in the IT industry. Many architects start out in support, technician, or developer roles before transitioning to an architect.

skills

Like any role, you’ll want to look for candidates who have a combination of hard and soft skills to balance out their abilities to implement strategy, manage teams, and see projects through. These skills can include: 

• An understanding of various networks and databases 
• Proficiency in programming languages like Python, Java, etc. 
• Working knowledge of security practices, operating systems, and cloud computing platforms and applications 
• Ability to communicate with entry and senior-level employees as well as vendors 
• Project management and administrative expertise 

salary

The annual salary of a cloud architect is between $116,000 and $183,000 per year. On top of the base salary, they are projected to earn an estimated additional pay of $37,000 to $68,000. These additional earnings depend greatly on years of experience and certifications.

Cloud Architect Interview Questions

When interviewing candidates for a cloud architect position, be sure to come prepared with a list of questions that speak not only to their professional experience but to their soft skills as well. Remember—you’re not just looking for the perfect fit on-paper. You’re looking for a great culture fit as well! 

Here are some sample questions to get you started and help you assess your ideal candidate: 

• How do you approach designing a scalable and secure cloud architecture? 
• How do you refresh your skill set as technology continues to progress? 
• Can you share an example of when you successfully collaborated with a cross-functional team? 
• How do you define success in your career? 
• Can you provide an example of a cloud architecture project that required innovative thinking to solve a unique problem? 
• Can you describe a time when you had to explain a complex technical concept to a non-expert audience?

Hire Cloud Professionals With Insight Global

Cloud architects are essential hires as cloud capabilities expand and become more necessary in the age of AI. Hiring the right person to maintain your cloud security and infrastructure means assessing candidates’ skills and qualifications and providing them with an accurate description of your company’s needs. 

Insight Global is ready to help you hire the best cloud architects for your company. Partner with us to strengthen your hires and upskill your team’s capacity. 

Not ready to work with a staffing agency yet? Check out our IT Interview Guide to get our insights into the interviewing process.