Azure Cloud Cost Optimization Consultant

Job Description

• Azure Cloud Cost Optimization Consultant with at least 5 years of experience in Azure cloud environments and a proven track record of at least two successful cost optimization implementations.
• The ideal candidate will bring expertise in identifying and executing cost-saving opportunities while maintaining high system performance and reliability.
• Specific skills include ECP environment cleanup, orphaned resource management, log analytics optimization, power scheduling, backup and recovery strategies, and file service optimization.
• Additionally, experience with generative AI tools for cost management and optimization is highly desirable.

Key Responsibilities

1. Cost Optimization and Cleanup

• Conduct detailed cleanup of ECP (Enterprise Cloud Platform) environments to eliminate unused or misconfigured resources.
• Identify and manage orphaned resources (e.g., unattached disks, idle VMs, unused storage accounts).

2.  Log Analytics Optimization

• Analyze and optimize Log Analytics configurations to reduce data ingestion and retention costs.
• Implement targeted logging strategies to balance cost and visibility.

3. Power Scheduling and Automation

• Design and implement automated power scheduling for non-critical resources to minimize costs during off-peak hours.
• Utilize Azure tools like Azure Automation, Logic Apps, and Runbooks for cost-efficient scheduling.

4. Backup and Recovery Strategy

• Develop optimized backup and recovery strategies, ensuring data integrity while minimizing storage and operational costs.
• Utilize Azure Backup and third-party tools to implement cost-effective solutions for disaster recovery.

5. Generative AI for Cost Management

• Integrate and leverage generative AI-based tools (e.g., Azure OpenAI, ChatGPT, or third-party platforms) to generate insights, automate repetitive tasks, and improve spend management.
• Use AI-driven recommendations to proactively identify cost-saving opportunities.

6.  Spend Tracking and Reporting

• Establish detailed spend tracking mechanisms using tools like Azure Cost Management, Power BI, and custom dashboards.
• Provide actionable insights on usage patterns, cost anomalies, and optimization opportunities.

7. File Service Optimization

• Optimize Azure File Services (e.g., Azure Files, Blob Storage, and Data Lake Storage) by analyzing storage tiers and implementing lifecycle policies.
• Design cost-effective solutions for long-term data archiving and high-availability needs

8. Governance and Best Practices

• Implement robust governance practices, including tagging strategies and cost management policies.
• Define budgets, alerts, and thresholds to ensure proactive cost control.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align cost optimization strategies with business objectives.

Required Skills & Experience

Azure Cloud Expertise

• Proven experience in Azure services including computing, storage, networking, Log Analytics, and Backup.
• Strong knowledge of Azure Cost Management tools and best practices for cloud financial management (FinOps).

Cost Optimization Skills

• Hands-on experience with ECP environment cleanup, orphaned resource identification, and resolution.
• Expertise in Log Analytics optimization, power scheduling, and file storage cost management.
• Familiarity with backup and recovery strategies that balance cost and performance.

Generative AI and Automation

• Experience using generative AI tools (e.g., Azure OpenAI, ChatGPT) for cloud cost management and optimization.
• Strong automation skills with Azure CLI, PowerShell, or Terraform for implementing policies and optimization strategies.

Spend Tracking & Reporting

• Proficiency in creating spend reports and dashboards with tools like Power BI, Azure Cost Management, and custom analytics platforms.

Preferred Qualifications: Certifications:

• Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert, Azure Administrator Associate, or FinOps Certified Practitioner.