Senior Cloud Architect & Program Manager

About The Role

The Senior Cloud Architect & Program Manager is a senior technical leadership role responsible for defining and executing the organization's cloud strategy, architecting scalable and secure cloud solutions and driving major modernization initiatives from concept through delivery. This role bridges enterprise architecture, project delivery, and cross-functional leadership — partnering with business and engineering teams to deliver cloud solutions that are cost-effective, resilient, and aligned with organizational priorities

Responsibilities

Cloud Strategy & Architecture

• Define and maintain the organization's cloud strategy and long-term architectural roadmap
• Design and implement scalable, secure, and resilient cloud solutions on Microsoft Azure.
• Lead cloud architecture decisions across IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS models.
• Establish governance, security, and compliance frameworks for Azure environments.
• Optimize cloud costs and performance through architecture reviews and automation.
• Provide technical leadership on Azure migrations, hybrid cloud integrations, and DevOps enablement.

Program & Project Leadership

• Lead the development and execution of coordinated, enterprise-scale plans and technology programs.
• Drive high-priority, high-complexity projects requiring significant resources and cross-functional coordination.
• Engage regularly with executive stakeholders to communicate program status, resolve escalations, and influence future technology initiatives.
• Deliver clear, structured presentations on project status, risks, and outcomes to senior leadership.
• Represent the Technology division in cross-departmental teams focused on key strategic initiatives.

Project & Delivery Management

• Manage projects from inception through final implementation, coordinating across end users, vendors, and internal teams.
• Define project scope, assign responsibilities, identify resources, and build schedules to ensure on-time delivery.
• Manage project financials against assigned budgets: forecast requirements, track expenditures, analyze variances, and initiate corrective actions.
• Ensure adherence to delivery standards and review all project deliverables for quality and completeness.
• Identify and resolve risks for at-risk programs, organizing resources and solutions proactively.
• Produce key project artifacts as needed — including business requirements documentation, project plans, test scripts, and change management logs.
• Ensure all project information is current and accurate; provide regular high-level briefings to executive management.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Business, Communications, or a related field from an accredited institution.
• 10+ years of progressively responsible experience, with at least 5 years in Azure architecture or cloud leadership roles.
• Proven track record managing multiple, complex enterprise-level technology projects simultaneously, including inter-dependent stakeholders across internal and external organizations.
• Experience developing program and project strategies that achieve business goals, with demonstrated understanding of impacts on diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and influence cross-functional teams, including Regulatory Agencies and external partners.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to resolve issues that cross departmental boundaries.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with executive-level presentation ability.
• Ability to travel to Port Authority facilities as required.

Desired Qualifications

• Microsoft Azure certifications (e.g., Azure Solutions Architect Expert, Azure DevOps Engineer).
• Experience with FinOps practices and cloud cost management frameworks.
• Familiarity with government or regulated industry technology environments.
• PMP, PgMP, or equivalent project management certification.

Selection Process

The application process varies by position, but typically includes an initial phone interview for qualified candidates, followed by a more in-depth interview(s) and/or assessment(s). Selected candidates who are made a conditional job offer will be asked to undergo a background check.

Compensation, Benefits & On-Site Collaboration Requirements

In accordance with Port Authority policy, this position permits employees to work remotely a maximum of one day per week, subject to operational and business needs.

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey anticipates that the actual salary offered to a successful candidate will depend on aspects such as experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and internal factors.

The expected compensation range for this role is: Minimum: $ 147,290 Midpoint: $ 191,486 Maximum: $ 235,664

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey offers a competitive benefits package and a professional environment that supports development and recognizes achievement.

Click here for more information about benefits, our culture, and career development opportunities.