AWIPS Cloud Migration Subject Matter Expert (SME) Consultant

Job Description

Job Description

is seeking a highly experienced AWIPS Cloud Migration Subject Matter Expert (SME) Consultant to support upcoming strategic initiatives focused on transitioning the Advanced Weather Interactive Processing System (AWIPS) to a cloud environment. This senior-level consulting role will provide deep technical expertise and strategic insight into AWIPS II architecture, operations, and modernization pathways, directly contributing to a future federal bid.

The ideal candidate brings extensive knowledge of AWIPS II, hands-on experience in system testing and validation, and a firm grasp of NOAA / NWS operational frameworks. This role requires a consultant who can translate highly technical systems architecture into actionable strategies for a successful and secure cloud migration.

Key Responsibilities

AWIPS System & Architecture Expertise

Deliver in-depth technical guidance on AWIPS II architecture and support cloud-readiness assessments.

Provide insights into the AWIPS Network Control Facility (NCF) operations, including helpdesk, troubleshooting, system monitoring, and repair processes.

Clarify AWIPS II installation processes, network configurations, and critical hardware / software dependencies.

Interpret cybersecurity compliance standards, including integration with NOAA OCIO Cyber Security Division (CSD) tools and security patching practices.

Offer lifecycle management guidance for AWIPS infrastructure components—servers, workstations, routers, firewalls, storage, and network devices—across multiple NOAA / NWS locations.

Cloud Adaptation & System Modernization

Translate existing AWIPS functions and architecture into scalable, cloud-native designs.

Support software maintenance strategy and configuration control for over 2 million lines of code within AWIPS II.

Participate in and advise on AWIPS Configuration Control Board (CCB) processes related to change requests.

Operational & Network Engineering Support

Apply hands-on AWIPS experience to validate and test system functionality in a simulated or actual cloud environment.

Provide technical recommendations on SBN infrastructure, VPN connectivity over NOAANet, and IPv6-ready LANs managed by NCF.

Collaborate with NOAA OCIO N-Wave to ensure network performance, stability, and secure data transfer pathways.

Data Management & Visualization

Offer strategic input on re-architecting data ingestion, analysis, forecasting, and dissemination workflows for cloud compatibility.

Support the transition of AWIPS to a Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA) and leverage Smart Push / Pull technologies for data handling.

Recommend modern, cloud-based visualization solutions to enhance situational awareness and operational decision-making.

Qualifications

Proven subject matter expertise in AWIPS II, ideally gained through work with NOAA or NWS.

Demonstrated experience testing or operating AWIPS II in an operational or cloud-preparatory context.

Deep understanding of AWIPS II infrastructure, including networking, hardware, and software configuration.

Skilled in communicating complex technical concepts to cross-functional teams and stakeholders.

Familiarity with NOAA technical documentation, policies, and systems repositories.

Strong analytical skills with a strategic mindset for IT modernization.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to present findings to technical and non-technical audiences.