Senior Cloud Engineer at InsideHigherEd

Senior Cloud Engineer

FA438

Exempt

Full Time

No

A sensitive position requires a fingerprint-based criminal history Check. This is NOT a sensitive position.

No

This position is designated as a Campus Security Authority. A Campus Security Authority (or CSA) is defined as an “official of the institution with significant responsibility for student and campus activities”. A CSA is required to immediately report any crime that is reported to them to the University Police who will then review, evaluate, and investigate the reported crime. Annual training is required by the Department of Education for all personnel who have been designated as a Campus Security Authority.

Yes

This position is a “designated position” meaning this position could potentially be required to work (depending on the event) during an emergency closing.

No

This position does NOT require a Statement of Personal Economic Interest.

Yes

A restricted position would be subject to availability of funding. This is NOT a restricted position.

The Senior Cloud Engineer is responsible for the architecture, implementation, optimization, and secure operation of Christopher Newport University’s Microsoft Azure and Microsoft 365 environments. This role is instrumental in advancing the University’s cloud strategy, ensuring best practices for security and compliance, and integrating cloud services with on-premises infrastructure.

• Design and implement Azure-based infrastructure solutions, including identity, security, management, and logging services, that support CNU’s strategic goals.
• Lead Entra configurations, including Conditional Access, MFA, Hybrid Identity, and security roles.
• Administer and support the entire Microsoft 365 suite, including Exchange Online, SharePoint Online, OneDrive for Business, and Microsoft Teams.
• Manage user and group lifecycle processes, including automated provisioning and de-provisioning of accounts and services for students, faculty, and staff.
• Monitor Azure environments with Azure Monitor, Log Analytics, Purview, and Application Insights to ensure availability, reliability, and performance.
• Collaborate with the Information Security Office to implement cloud security controls and respond to audit findings.
• Guide cloud governance practices and cost optimization strategies using Azure Cost Management and FinOps principles.
• Manage M365 licensing, including assignment, tracking, and optimization to ensure cost-effectiveness and compliance.
• Stay current with Microsoft cloud offerings and proactively recommend improvements to the environment.
• Serve as the Tier 3 escalation point for complex Azure/M365 issues from the university help desk.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation for Azure/M365 system configurations, processes, and support procedures.
• Collaborate with other IT teams (Networking, Security, Endpoint Management) to ensure a cohesive and secure technology environment.
• Provide guidance and training to faculty, staff, and IT colleagues on best practices for using Microsoft 365 tools effectively and securely.
• This position is designated as a “responsible employee” who has the authority to redress sexual violence, who has the duty to report incidents of sexual violence or other student misconduct, or who a student could reasonably believe has this authority or duty.
• Develops and maintains very positive and professional customer service and/or relations within the office/department and with all constituencies, including students, faculty, staff, guests, and employees. Demonstrates a positive and professional attitude and treats everyone with dignity and respect. Fully supports the “Student’s First” value at CNU and routinely goes the extra mile in providing service.
• Reviews and communicates safety issues to assure a safe and healthy workplace and a reduction in work-related absence.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Deep understanding of Microsoft Azure and M365 services and ecosystems or similar systems
• Expertise in Microsoft Azure Identity Services (Azure AD, Azure AD Connect, Conditional Access, MFA).
• Expertise with hybrid identity solutions and integration with on-premises systems.
• Advanced knowledge of cloud security practices, compliance frameworks (NIST, CIS), and governance policies.
• Proficiency in scripting languages such as PowerShell, Azure CLI, or Microsoft Graph.
• Proficiency with Azure monitoring and alerting platforms.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and creative problem-solving skills.
• Proven ability to communicate independently and maintain relationships with customers, technical, and non-technical users regarding their current technologies, business processes, and strategies.
• Proven ability to maintain focus and professionalism in a high-stress, fast-paced environment.

Master’s Degree or a Bachelor’s degree with relevant experience that equates to an advanced degree.

Master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field.

Experience in Cloud or Systems Engineering
Experience in Azure M365 environments.

• Experience working in a hybrid cloud environment that integrates Microsoft Azure and on-premises infrastructure, including Active Directory, DNS, and networking systems.
• Demonstrated experience leading or significantly contributing to cloud migration initiatives and the modernization of legacy services into cloud-native or hybrid models.
• Experience integrating or managing M365 services.
• Prior involvement in security audits, incident response, or collaboration with Information Security teams to resolve technical and compliance findings.
• One or more of the following certifications (or equivalent) is strongly preferred:
  • Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305)
  • Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer Associate (AZ-500)
  • Microsoft Certified: Identity and Access Administrator Associate (SC-300)

Starting at $85,000, Commensurate with Education and Experience.

Christopher Newport University is anchored in excellence, and that is reflected in our ranking as the #1 regional public university in Virginia and #3 among regional public universities in the South. We are an inclusive and kind community, founded on our shared values of honor, scholarship, service and leadership. We offer an outstanding liberal arts education provided by dedicated, gifted teacher-scholars who are supported by a compassionate team of faculty and staff. Our 4,500 undergraduate and graduate students pursue more than 90 areas of study, as they live and learn on a largely residential campus. CNU’s on-campus performing and visual arts centers offer Broadway shows, world-class performances, engaging exhibitions, transformative lectures and classes, and more. Our athletics program is the winningest at any level in Virginia.

Christopher Newport University is in the heart of Newport News, a vibrant city with breathtaking scenery and unique experiences. The city and region offer affordable neighborhoods, local and name-brand shops, diverse dining options, local parks and water access, and fun recreational opportunities. Whatever your interests and goals, you belong at CNU! For further details and information about Christopher Newport, visit cnu.edu.

Yes

This position is eligible for periodic telework as determined by the department. Eligibility is not guaranteed, and is subject to supervisor approval. Eligibility will depend on the likelihood of the employee’s success in a telework arrangement and the supervisor’s ability to manage telework. Departments and/or Human Resources may modify or revoke eligibility at any time. Employees will be required to sign a Telework Agreement.

AP432P

1

11/12/2025

11/30/2025

Interested parties are requested to submit a cover letter; current resume; and the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of at least three professional references at the time of application.

This position will be posted until filled; however, review of applications will begin on 11/30/2025.

Search finalists are required to complete a CNU sponsored background check.

Christopher Newport University (CNU) will make a reasonable effort to accommodate persons with disabilities in the application and/or interview process. Persons with disabilities who require accommodation should contact the CNU Human Resources Office by calling (757) 594-7145.

https://jobs.cnu.edu/postings/20145

Christopher Newport University, an EO Employer, is fully Committed to Access and Opportunity.

Notice of Non-Discrimination & Title IX Policy Statement