---
title: 'Sr. Architect | Offensive Security/ AI Testing/ Cloud Testing (Remote) at Trace3'
canonical: 'https://feeny.ai/job/sr-architect-offensive-security-ai-testing-cloud-testing-remote-trace3-nashville-pgzs7jswvg88'
type: 'job'
last_seen: '2026-11-07'
---

# Sr. Architect | Offensive Security/ AI Testing/ Cloud Testing (Remote) at Trace3

- **Company:** Trace3
- **Location:** Nashville, TN
- **Compensation:** $170k–$220k
- **Work type:** remote
- **Posted:** 2026-11-04
- **Last confirmed live:** 2026-11-07
- **Apply:** https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/trace3/jobs/8353779

## Job description

Who is Trace3?

Trace3 is a leading Transformative IT Authority, providing unique technology solutions and consulting services to our clients. Equipped with elite engineering and dynamic innovation, we empower IT executives and their organizations to achieve competitive advantage through a process of Integrate, Automate, Innovate.

Our culture at Trace3 embodies the spirit of a startup with the advantage of a scalable business. Employees can grow their career and have fun while doing it!

Trace3 is headquartered in Irvine, California. We employ more than 1,200 people all over the United States. Our major field office locations include Denver, Indianapolis, Grand Rapids, Lexington, Los Angeles, Louisville, Texas, San Francisco.

Ready to discover the possibilities that live in technology?

Come Join Us!

Street-Smart - Thriving in Dynamic Times

We are flexible and resilient in a fast-changing environment. We continuously innovate and drive constructive change while keeping a focus on the “big picture.” We exercise sound business judgment in making high-quality decisions in a timely and cost-effective manner. We are highly creative and can dig deep within ourselves to find positive solutions to different problems.

Juice - The “Stuff” it takes to be a Needle Mover

We get things done and drive results. We lead without a title, empowering others through a can-do attitude. We look forward to the goal, mentally mapping out every checkpoint on the pathway to success, and visualizing what the final destination looks and feels like.

Teamwork - Humble, Hungry and Smart

We are humble individuals who understand how our job impacts the company's mission. We treat others with respect, admit mistakes, give credit where it’s due and demonstrate transparency. We “bring the weather” by exhibiting positive leadership and solution-focused thinking. We hug people in their trials, struggles, and failures – not just their success. We appreciate the individuality of the people around us.

## JOB SUMMARY:

The Senior Architect, Offensive Security is a senior technical contributor who leads advanced offensive security engagements for Trace3 clients, with a primary focus on cloud security testing (particularly Microsoft Azure, Entra ID, and Microsoft 365) and AI/LLM security testing. This role uncovers vulnerabilities and realistic attack paths in modern cloud and AI-enabled environments through adversary-minded, manual testing that goes well beyond automated scanning, and delivers clear, actionable remediation guidance.

The Sr. Architect will plan, execute, and report on complex assessments, serve as a technical escalation point for the team, and help build the testing methodologies behind the practice’s cloud and AI service offerings. Mobile application testing experience is a plus. While general internal network, external network and web application penetration testing experience is valued and may be utilized, this role is focused on specialized testing. A key function of this role will be building deep relationships, gaining trust, and enabling client success.

## SUMMARY OF ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

- Lead and execute cloud security assessments and penetration tests, primarily in Microsoft Azure, Entra ID, and Microsoft 365 (and AWS or GCP as applicable), covering identity and privilege escalation, tenant and subscription attack paths, managed identities, Key Vault, storage, serverless, and container (AKS) workloads
- Identify and exploit cloud identity weaknesses, including conditional access gaps, OAuth application and consent abuse, token theft and replay, and hybrid identity attack paths between on-premises Active Directory and Entra ID
- Assess cloud DevOps and infrastructure-as-code environments (e.g., Azure DevOps, GitHub Actions, Terraform) for pipeline compromise, secrets exposure, and privilege escalation paths
- Perform security assessments of AI/ML and LLM-enabled applications and agentic systems, including prompt injection, jailbreaking, sensitive data leakage, insecure output handling, excessive agency, RAG pipeline weaknesses, and model supply-chain risk, aligned to the OWASP Top 10 for LLM Applications and MITRE ATLAS
- Assess the cloud platforms and infrastructure that host AI workloads (e.g., Azure OpenAI, Azure AI Foundry, AWS Bedrock), including access controls, data exposure, network isolation, and integrations with enterprise data sources
- Serve as technical lead on engagements: define the testing approach and rules of engagement, coordinate with client stakeholders, and direct and support other testers
- Produce high-quality reports that clearly communicate attack narratives, risk ratings, evidence, and prioritized remediation guidance, and present findings to audiences ranging from engineers to executives
- Develop and maintain testing methodologies, playbooks, and checklists for cloud and AI security testing
- Develop scripts, tools, and automation to streamline testing and internal processes
- Research emerging attack techniques in cloud and AI security, and share findings through internal enablement, blog posts, and conference presentations that build Trace3’s presence in the security community
- Mentor junior and mid-level team members and provide technical quality review of their work
- Assist in the design and maintenance of internal lab infrastructure for offensive security research, development, and testing

## REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related technical field, or equivalent professional experience
- 8+ years of hands-on offensive security experience, including:
- Deep expertise in cloud penetration testing, preferably Azure, Entra ID, and Microsoft 365 (e.g., ROADtools, AzureHound, MicroBurst, GraphRunner, Prowler, ScoutSuite)
- Hands-on experience testing AI/LLM applications and agentic systems (e.g., PyRIT, garak, promptfoo, Burp Suite)
- Strong understanding of cloud identity and access management, including OAuth 2.0, OpenID Connect, SAML, conditional access, and token-based authentication
- Working knowledge of how LLM applications are built and deployed, including RAG architectures, embeddings and vector stores, tool-calling, and model hosting platforms
- Proficiency in scripting and development using languages such as Python, PowerShell, Go, or Bash
- Solid foundation in traditional penetration testing (network, Active Directory, and web applications) and common tooling such as Burp Suite, BloodHound, and Metasploit
- Excellent written communication skills with the ability to produce clear, client-ready reports
- Excellent oral communication and presentation skills, with the ability to present findings to C-level executives and non-technical audiences
- Highly organized, detail-oriented, excellent time management skills, and able to effectively prioritize tasks in a fast-paced, high-volume, and evolving work environment
- Ability to approach client requests in a proactive and consultative manner; listen, understand client needs, and effectively deliver
- Comfortable managing multiple and changing priorities, and meeting deadlines in an entrepreneurial environment
- Motivated self-starter who loves to solve challenging problems and feels comfortable working directly with clients
- Ability to travel when needed

## PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

- Cloud-focused certifications such as CARTP, CARTE, GCPN, or AZ-500
- Offensive security certifications such as OSCP, OSEP, OSWE, OSAI, HTB COAE or GXPN
- Hands-on experience with AWS and/or GCP security testing in addition to Azure
- Experience testing agentic AI systems, including Model Context Protocol (MCP) integrations and multi-agent workflows
- Mobile application penetration testing experience for iOS and Android (e.g., Frida, Objection, MobSF, jadx), aligned to OWASP MASVS and MASTG
- Mobile-focused certifications such as GMOB or eMAPT
- Published security research, CVEs, conference talks, or contributions to open-source offensive tooling
- Experience with red team operations or adversary emulation

Actual salary will be based on a variety of factors, including location, experience, skill set, performance, licensure and certification, and business needs. The range for this position in other geographic locations may differ. Certain positions may also be eligible for variable incentive compensation, such as bonuses or commissions, that is not included in the base salary. Estimated Pay Range $170,000—$220,000 USD

The Perks

- Comprehensive medical, dental and vision plans for you and your dependents
- 401(k) Retirement Plan with Employer Match, 529 College Savings Plan, Health Savings Account, Life Insurance, and Long-Term Disability
- Competitive Compensation
- Training and development programs
- Major offices stocked with snacks and beverages
- Collaborative and cool culture
- Work-life balance and generous paid time off

Our Commitment

At the core of Trace3's DNA is our people. We are a diverse group of talented individuals who understand the importance of teamwork and demonstrating leadership, character, and passion in all that we do.

We’re committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and empowered to grow. We recognize that embracing diversity drives innovation, improves outcomes, fosters collaboration, boosts teammate satisfaction, and builds a more inclusive culture.

As an equal opportunity employer, Trace3 bases all employment decisions based on individual qualifications, merit, and business requirements. We do not engage in discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

Any demographic information provided is strictly voluntary, kept confidential in accordance with Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) regulations, and will not be used in employment decisions, including hiring, promotions, or mentorship programs. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all.

If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process or participate in an interview, please email recruiting@trace3.com.

***To all recruitment agencies: Trace3 does not accept unsolicited agency resumes/CVs. Please do not forward resumes/CVs to our careers email addresses, Trace3 employees or any other company location. Trace3 is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes/CVs.

## About Trace3

## Company Overview
- **One-liner**: Trace3 is a leading Transformative IT Authority that consults on, integrates, and operates solutions across AI, data, security, and cloud to help enterprises embrace emerging technology and drive measurable business value.
- **Entity Type**: Private (acquired by Apollo Funds in August 2025; previously backed by H.I.G. Capital)
- **Headquarters**: Irvine, California, United States
- **Founded**: 2002
- **Founders**: Not publicly named (Joe Quaglia is the CEO per Indeed)

## Core Business
- **Primary Industry**: Information Technology & Services (IT Consulting, Systems Integration, Managed Services)
- **Target Customers**: Enterprise and Mid-Market organizations across Financial Services, Healthcare, Government (Federal & SLED), and other regulated industries.
- **Mission/Purpose**: "All Possibilities Live in Technology" — turning that belief into true business transformation for clients.

## Products & Services
Trace3 operates through several key practice areas and a dedicated government arm:

- **AI & Data Consulting**: Practical AI enablement (e.g., Copilot for M365), custom AI/ML solutions, data strategy, and analytics. Helps clients start small with AI and scale.
- **Cloud Services**: Cloud architecture, migration, hybrid cloud (VCF9), and managed cloud operations.
- **Cybersecurity**: Security strategy, architecture, engineering, and managed security services (Splunk delivery, security generalists).
- **Modern Infrastructure**: Hybrid cloud architecture, data center modernization, networking.
- **Managed Services**: Tier 1-3 support, service desk, and ongoing IT operations management.
- **Management Consulting**: Strategic advisory, portfolio management, and business transformation consulting.
- **Trace3 Government**: A joint venture with Zivaro (formed 2024) focused on DoD, DOE, and SLED clients with over 120 cleared engineers.
- **Innovation Program**: Custom IT research, VC/PE thematic briefings, and access to emerging startups.

## Market Standing
- **Valuation/Market Cap**: Not disclosed (private company). Acquired by Apollo Funds in August 2025; prior PE round led by H.I.G. Capital in 2017.
- **Key Metric**: Annual Revenue of **$2.85 Billion** (USD) as of the latest available data.
- **Notable Investors/Partners**:
    - **Parent Company**: Apollo Global Management, Inc.
    - **Previous Investor**: H.I.G. Capital
    - **Key OEM Partners**: Cisco, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Dell Technologies, Palo Alto Networks, Splunk.
- **Growth Signals**:
    - **Headcount**: 1,064 employees (+4.1% YoY) with 109 active job postings (+186.8% YoY).
    - **Acquisition Spree**: Acquired Zivaro (2024), Ivoxy (2025), and multiple other firms (Set Solutions, Optio Data, Tail Wind Informatics, Groupware Technology, LaSalle Solutions) to build scale.
    - **Government Expansion**: Launched Trace3 Government in 2024, targeting classified and mission-critical work.
    - **Talent Sources**: Heavy recruitment from Cisco, Microsoft, AWS, Dell, and competitors (e360, World Wide Technology, Insight).

## Competitive Advantages
- **Vendor Agnostic Stance**: Provides unbiased, agnostic assessments of the technology landscape — a key differentiator from resellers.
- **Deep VC/PE Relationships**: "On a first-name basis with major VC firms" — allows clients early access to emerging tech and innovation briefings.
- **Scale & Breadth**: 700+ engineers (including 120+ cleared government engineers), national presence, and multiple acquired specialty firms under one roof.
- **Government Security Clearances**: Many engineers hold top-secret clearances (DoD, DOE), a high barrier to entry for competitors.
- **Proven M&A Integration**: Successfully rolled up 7+ companies to build a comprehensive service portfolio.

## Strategic Focus
- **AI as a Core Growth Engine**: "Run with AI" and "Transform with AI" are central themes. Focused on practical, low-risk AI adoption for enterprises.
- **Government Sector Expansion**: Trace3 Government is a major growth vector, targeting federal and state contracts.
- **M&A Roll-Up**: Continue acquiring niche consultancies to deepen capabilities in data, security, and cloud.
- **Managed Services Growth**: Building out a national managed services footprint (Tier 1-3 support centers in multiple cities).

## Why Work Here
- **Culture**: Described as "the spirit of a startup with the advantage of a scalable business." Core values include Teamwork, Innovation, Consultative approach, and being "Humble, Hungry, & Smart."
- **Remote/Hybrid/Office**: Mixed. Many roles are remote (e.g., Cloud Engineers, Solutions Architects), but some are on-site (e.g., Managed Services Engineers in Phoenix, Atlanta, Chicago, Las Vegas). Sales and consulting roles often require regional presence.
- **Notable Perks**:
    - Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans
    - 401(k) retirement plan and 529 college savings plan
    - HSA, life insurance, and long-term disability
    - Generous PTO and work-life balance
    - Stocked kitchens with snacks and beverages
    - Training and development programs
    - Competitive compensation packages
- **Engineering Culture**: Heavy emphasis on emerging tech (AI, cloud, security). Engineers get exposure to cutting-edge tools and vendor relationships. Many roles require certifications and deep technical expertise.
- **CEO Approval Rating**: 51% on Indeed (average for a large consulting firm).

## Sources
1. [trace3.com](https://www.trace3.com/)
2. [trace3.com/careers](https://www.trace3.com/careers)
3. [Greenhouse Job Board](http://job-boards.greenhouse.io/trace3)
4. [LinkedIn Company Page](https://www.linkedin.com/company/trace3)
5. [Indeed Company Page](https://www.indeed.com/cmp/Trace3?from=serpCompanyHeaderLogo)

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