Azure Migration & Testing Specialist (AWS to Azure L&S) – Contract

Contract Duration:

3 months (with potential for extension based on project needs for post-migration upgrades)

Project Overview:

We are undertaking a critical infrastructure migration as part of a global program. This specific project involves the "Lift and Shift" (L&S) migration of a portfolio of interdependent local servers and applications from Amazon Web Services (AWS) to Microsoft Azure. This migration must be completed by a strict deadline of August 31, 2025, due to AWS contract termination.

Role Summary:

We are seeking a highly skilled and versatile Azure Migration & Testing Specialist to provide hands-on technical expertise and support for this time-sensitive migration. You will be a key player in executing the L&S migration, conducting comprehensive testing, and assisting with the preparation of essential administrative documentation. This role requires a proactive, problem-solving individual who can work effectively within a dynamic project environment and collaborate closely with our internal IT team.

Key Responsibilities:

• L&S Migration Execution:
  • Actively participate in and support the hands-on technical execution of the server and application migration from AWS to Azure using L&S methodologies.
  • Assist with server replication, data transfer, and the configuration of Azure IaaS resources (VMs, storage, networking) based on approved designs.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues encountered during the migration process.
• Comprehensive Testing & Validation:
  • Develop, lead, and execute detailed test plans for migrated servers and applications in the Azure environment.
  • Verify IIS configurations, network flows (firewall rules, connectivity), and application functionality post-migration.
  • Conduct troubleshooting and performance validation for SQL Server and PostgreSQL databases in Azure.
  • Collaborate with application owners and business users to support User Acceptance Testing (UAT).
• Administrative Documentation Support:
  • Take a significant role in the preparation and compilation of internal administrative and compliance documentation, including Security Risk Assessment Questionnaires (SRAQ), Technical Architecture Documents (TAD), and Security Risk Acceptance Forms (SRAF).
  • Work closely with internal technical leads to gather necessary information, complete forms, and help navigate the submission and approval processes.
• Technical Support & Collaboration:
  • Provide expert technical support to the internal project team throughout the migration lifecycle.
  • Collaborate effectively with internal IT staff, application owners, and project leadership.
  • Communicate progress, issues, and resolutions clearly and proactively.

Required Skills and Experience:

• Proven hands-on experience in executing "Lift and Shift" cloud migration projects, specifically from AWS to Microsoft Azure.
• Knowledge of Azure IaaS services: Virtual Machines, Azure Storage (Managed Disks, Blob), Azure Networking (VNets, NSGs, Load Balancers), Azure Active Directory.
• Proficiency in testing and validating server environments, including:
  • IIS configuration and web application functionality.
  • Network connectivity and firewall rule validation.
  • SQL Server and/or PostgreSQL database functionality and connectivity.
• Experience in preparing or contributing significantly to technical documentation for IT projects, ideally including security and risk assessment documentation.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills with the ability to diagnose and resolve complex technical issues independently.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively as part of a team and liaise with various stakeholders.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks concurrently and work effectively under pressure to meet tight deadlines.
• Familiarity with enterprise IT environments and processes.

Desirable Skills:

• Experience with scripting languages (e.g., PowerShell) for automation of migration or testing tasks.
• Understanding of IT security best practices and compliance considerations in cloud environments.
• Previous experience working within large, complex organizations.

Personal Attributes:

• Versatile and Adaptable: A true "Swiss knife" comfortable tackling a variety of technical and administrative tasks.
• Proactive and Results-Oriented: Takes initiative and is driven to achieve project goals.
• Detail-Oriented: Pays close attention to detail, especially in testing and documentation.
• Collaborative Team Player: Works well with others and contributes to a positive team environment.
• Resilient: Able to maintain focus and effectiveness in a fast-paced, deadline-driven project.