Lead Azure DevOps Engineer

Job Overview

We seek an experienced Lead Azure DevOps Engineer to join our team based in Abu Dhabi, UAE. This position requires high-level expertise in Microsoft Azure to lead platform engineering and cloud infrastructure design for enterprise AI solutions. You will be responsible for cloud platform architecture, deployment strategies, and implementing DevSecOps practices across complex Azure environments while working collaboratively with infrastructure, cybersecurity, and Microsoft teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead Azure DevOps and platform engineering efforts throughout the project lifecycle.
• Architect and deploy Azure infrastructure for enterprise AI and application workloads.
• Define environment strategies and deployment architecture covering development, testing, UAT, and production stages.
• Create and manage CI/CD pipelines utilizing Azure DevOps and GitHub Actions.
• Develop Infrastructure as Code (IaC) solutions leveraging tools such as Terraform.
• Manage and operate containerized applications on Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS).
• Handle Azure networking components including VNets, subnets, private endpoints, DNS configurations, routing, firewalls, and integration with enterprise networks.
• Implement identity and access protocols using Microsoft Entra ID, Managed Identities, Service Principals, and Azure Role-Based Access Control (RBAC).
• Manage secrets, certificates, and credentials securely via Azure Key Vault.
• Set up monitoring, logging, and alert mechanisms through Azure Monitor, Application Insights, and Log Analytics.
• Enforce DevSecOps standards, vulnerability scanning, and automate security processes.
• Develop and maintain release management, rollback, backup, disaster recovery and production support procedures.
• Troubleshoot sophisticated issues involving Azure infrastructure, deployments, networking, security, and performance.
• Provide technical guidance and establish best practices for DevOps engineers.
• Work closely with infrastructure, cybersecurity, engineering teams, and Microsoft partners to ensure platform readiness and smooth production deployments.

Candidate Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Statistics, or related disciplines.
• Demonstrable experience designing and supporting enterprise-grade Azure platforms in production environments.
• Deep expertise with Microsoft Azure services and platform engineering concepts.
• Strong practical skills with Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS), Docker containers, and Kubernetes tools.
• Advanced proficiency in building Azure DevOps pipelines and authoring IaC using Terraform and/or Bicep.
• Solid understanding of enterprise Azure networking components, including VNets, private endpoints, DNS, routing, and firewall settings.
• Experience with Microsoft Entra ID, Managed Identities, RBAC, and managing secrets with Azure Key Vault.
• Ability to configure monitoring systems using Azure Monitor, Application Insights, and Log Analytics.
• Competent Linux system administration capabilities coupled with scripting skills in Python, Bash, and/or PowerShell.
• Strong communication and leadership qualities to collaborate effectively with enterprise clients and security teams.
• Proficient English language skills at B2 or C1 level and above.

Desired Additional Skills

• Experience with deploying Azure AI Services and Azure OpenAI infrastructure.
• Familiarity with Azure API Management.
• Knowledge of MLOps practices and using Databricks on Azure for AI/ML workloads.
• Hands-on with PostgreSQL and Azure managed database offerings.
• Understanding of Helm, Argo CD tools, and GitOps methodologies.
• Exposure to Red Hat OpenShift and hybrid Azure/on-premises environments.
• Knowledge of security scanning tools like SonarQube and container vulnerability assessments.
• Experience working in regulated sectors including Finance, Energy, or Healthcare.

Employee Benefits

• End of service gratuity arrangements.
• Private healthcare coverage along with life insurance.
• Access to employee assistance and wellness programs.
• Annual air travel allowances for expatriate staff.
• Regular performance evaluations coupled with salary reviews.
• Comprehensive global travel medical and accident insurance.
• Attractive referral bonus schemes.
• Opportunities for continuous learning including professional certifications, in-house training, and coaching.