Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Work Availability
Quote
Timeline
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James Asare Obeng

Germantown,MD

Summary

Hardworking and reliable professional with the ability to provide versatile Leadership in Cyber Security, Information Operations and high-profile projects. A proven Cloud Security Engineer with excellent communication skills and an outstanding ability to inspire and direct others to maximizing performance. In addition to being an ultimate team player, I come in with a professional work ethic, strong attention to detail, and an ability to produce top quality results in deadline driven environments. Being a steady hand in all situations is one of my best qualities that my colleagues continuously bring out in forte and normally getting the job done is my topmost priority for the team and eventually making the organization better. Adept at working with technical and non-technical people to accomplish shared objectives and achieve business success with innovative technical solutions.

Analytical development leader well-versed in technical architecture, solution development and deployment support. Valuable in review of proposals, making effective choices and contributing to entire development lifecycle. Excellent communication, planning and decision-making skills. Detail-oriented Computer Systems Engineer committed to improving system design and operations for reliable workflow management. Researches and implements budget-conscious security and encryption solutions to protect user privacy and increase overall network health. Creates easy-to-follow guidelines and troubleshooting documentation for non-technical staff. Organized and dependable candidate successful at managing multiple priorities with a positive attitude. Willingness to take on added responsibilities to meet team goals. To seek and maintain full-time position that offers professional challenges utilizing interpersonal skills, excellent time management and problem-solving skills.

Overview

24
24
years of professional experience

Work History

AWS Cloud Security Engineer

AWS, Amazon Web Services
Herndon, VA
03.2022 - Current
  • Worked as technical leader alongside customers and infrastructure team and contributed to business development.
  • Conducted deep-dive hands-on training sessions to transfer knowledge to customers considering or already using AWS.
  • Partnered with sales team to design solutions for customers and drive AWS adoption and revenue.
  • Captured and shared best-practice knowledge among AWS community and presented sessions at industry conferences.
  • Authored or contributed to AWS customer-facing whitepapers and tutorials.
  • Responded promptly to user requests for permission changes, new storage and expansion questions.
  • Participated in architectural discussions to build confidence and promote customer success when developing new and migrating existing applications, software and services on AWS platform.
  • Managed and monitored installed systems for highest level of availability.
  • Provided 2nd and 3rd level technical support and troubleshooting to internal and external clients.
  • Working knowledge or experience of information security within the enterprise
  • A strong grasp of Information Security and implemented processes to review IT infrastructure
  • Knowledge and experience with threat modeling and penetration testing, especially for web application and web APIs.
  • Web security and compliance experience (e.g. Firewalls, IDS/IPS systems, DDOS prevention and PCI, HIPAA, FIPS, etc.)
  • Experience working with Hardware Security Models.
  • Deploying Identity and Access Management systems to secure production and corporate access, such as: SSO, SAML
  • Understanding of Cloud Security across realms of Identity, Monitoring Auditing and Cryptography
  • AWS Services Knowledge including Identity Access Management (IAM),Key Management Service (KMS), Cloudtrail,CloudHSM,Cognito,AWS Organizations,Resource groups and tag editor,Fault Ingestion Simulator(FIS),Resource Access Manager(RAM),Amazon Certificate Manager(ACM),Artifact,Secrets Manager, Private Certificate Authority (Private CA), Account Management API.

CERTIFIED SOLUTIONS ARCHITECT

AWS
Herndon, VA
09.2021 - Current
  • Designed available, cost-efficient, fault-tolerant, and scalable distributed systems on AWS
  • Maintained current and in-depth understanding of business processes, needs and objectives.
  • Worked with developers and engineers to realize technological solutions.
  • Participated in weekly meetings with client to discuss project direction and milestone achievement.
  • Mentored team, sharing skills and expertise and encouraged each member to bring forward ideas and suggestions for improvement.
  • Provided 2nd and 3rd level technical support and troubleshooting to internal and external clients.
  • Designed and implemented system security and data assurance.
  • Hands-on experience using compute, networking, storage, and database AWS services
  • Hands-on experience with AWS deployment and management services
  • Ability to identify and define technical requirements for an AWS-based application
  • Ability to identify which AWS services meet a given technical requirement
  • Knowledge of recommended best practices for building secure and reliable applications on the AWS platform
  • An understanding of the basic architectural principles of building on the AWS Cloud
  • An understanding of the AWS global infrastructure
  • Work with internal teams to create the migration process of legacy systems to the AWS cloud

LOGISTICS SPECIALIST, AREA LEAD

AWS
Sterling, VA
11.2012 - Current
  • Provided onsite support to the AWS Ingestion network which enables AWS to upload hundreds of gigabytes of customer data to the AWS cloud in a cost and time efficient manner
  • Received, Labeled customer's media and mounted on the Ingestion Stations where customer data is transferred to AWS (typically S3) by communication with Network Engineers remotely
  • Helped troubleshoot whenever there were issues with the data upload
  • Ensured accuracy of physical inventory order sequence by entering inter-company purchase orders and inter-company transfers into the system following defined processes
  • Coordinated with operating department to manage inventory levels at multiple site locations
  • Special project support as required
  • Provide support to seven (7) data centers in the IAD Cluster in terms of making parts available where and when needed for critical repairs
  • Coordination of transport, distribution and maintenance of an effective work force to fulfill necessary critical spares at each site
  • Deal with vendors in sourcing parts for repairs
  • Made a conscious effort in ensuring faster rma turnaround times for our vendors (ZT systems, Dell, Hp, Rackable Systems, Cisco, Juniper, Supermicro, Quanta, Synnex) using defined processes for each vendor
  • Knowledge of Network Protocols, as well as network equipment’s from vendors we deal with (Juniper, Cisco)
  • Help provide training and leadership to new team members and get them up to speed on the various process improvements in the department
  • Led a cluster wide drive to eliminate waste as a result of multiple ticket touches which improved overall ticket workflows from DCO
  • Ensured quick turnaround time for RMA’S
  • Coordinated with vendors on ordering, tracking of parts
  • Provided and still provide onsite support to IAD North Data warehouses [IAD23, IAD67, and IAD69]
  • Ensured accuracy of physical inventory order sequence by entering inter-company purchase orders and inter-company transfers into the system following defined processes
  • Coordinated with operating department to manage inventory levels at multiple site locations
  • Special project support as required
  • Provide support to six (6) data centers (3 regular sites and 3 data warehouses) in the IAD Cluster in terms of making parts available where and when needed for critical repairs
  • Deal with vendors in sourcing parts for repairs
  • Performed regular media audits to match physical and Virtual inventories
  • IVT SME
  • Helped onboard new team members by training
  • Helped implement new processes to help with efficiency with ticketing system
  • Helped implement BIFROST and mad inputs to make it better
  • Media audits
  • Redzone equipment handling procedures initial consultant, (AWS)
  • Minimized process discrepancies by spearheading budget, supervising staff and controlling inventory and supply management.
  • Researched issues and assessed inefficiencies within supply chain using [Software] to devise solutions and improve performance.
  • Collaborated with shipping department staff to facilitate smooth materials returns to correct vendors.
  • Achieved team goals by guiding employees in coordinating and deploying best practices.
  • Reviewed pricing structures and conducted negotiations to obtain favorable rates and conditions.
  • Handled high-volume paperwork and collaborated with administrators to resolve invoicing and shipping problems.
  • Coordinated with freight forwarder to provide vendor shipping details and obtain shipping updates.
  • Coordinated driver dispatch to accomplish daily delivery requirements.
  • Worked with vendors to schedule daily pickups and weekly deliveries.
  • Built long-term relationships due to prompt and courteous service.
  • Oversaw every phase of supply chain, from purchase order to delivery to invoicing, targeting 100% end-user satisfaction.
  • Verified transactions, product orders and shipping dates and entered information into databases and reports.
  • Supervised compliance measures regarding domestic and international tariffs and customs regulations.
  • Boosted customer satisfaction ratings by [Number]% by providing effective solutions.
  • Streamlined office operations using automation, oversaw client communications, managed record tracking and data communication activities.
  • Reported emergencies, weather delays and carrier schedule changes to customers and supervisors.
  • Processed sales orders and handled administrative functions like bookkeeping, purchasing, tracking and credit applications.
  • Directed inter-modal domestic and overseas import and export operations to meet aggressive deadlines.
  • Eliminated process lags by overseeing $[Number] in logistics assets to fulfill customer demand.
  • Tracked supply, equipment and product inventory quantities to maintain necessary levels.
  • Issued timely and accurate responses to both internal and external inquiries.
  • Developed systems for organizing reports and records to drive integrity.
  • Worked with customers to integrate processes and correct issues.
  • Detected and resolved multifaceted issues related to business direction and operations.
  • Validated inventory levels and updated systems using handheld devices.

NSI TECH

Amazon.com
Ashburn, VA
08.2017 - 06.2018
  • TCP/IP networking knowledge
  • Learnt day to day operations of the team including running cables, troubleshooting links, replacing optics ,relabeling physical rack locations to correspond to cloudforge etc
  • Gained knowledge of network cabling, optic types, and test equipment, such as VFL, power meter, and OTDR
  • Experience with cabling infrastructure best practices and methodologies
  • Familiarity with common networking terms
  • Manage work and priorities through ticketing system and workflow
  • Collaborated with various stake holders to remove project obstacles
  • Traveled within IAD north as and when the needs of a particular site had to be addressed
  • Troubleshoot networking, routing and inter connectivity issues, including troubleshooting of network device configuration and low to mid-level application interaction using Mobius
  • Learnt about Power and Cooling requirements for the data center
  • Used switch builder to build out new switches ordered for projects
  • Completed customer requests via Remedy trouble ticketing system, Northern Virginia Data Centers)
  • Determined maintenance requirements and assigned repairs to qualified employees.
  • Performed troubleshooting and diagnosis on malfunctioning equipment.
  • Inspected equipment to identify areas of wear or causes of malfunctions.
  • Performed complex mechanical alignments and equipment calibration to meet quality standards.
  • Prioritized tasks and planned workflows to meet operational targets.
  • Applied critical thinking and research to address complex issues.
  • Read manuals and manufacturer instructions to install and troubleshoot devices.
  • Completed job reports and logs immediately following service calls.
  • Maintained quality assurance and customer satisfaction objectives.
  • Scheduled maintenance and repair tasks in alignment with production deadlines to reduce bottlenecks.
  • Addressed routine equipment maintenance according to established schedule.
  • Mentored junior technicians in maintenance, repair and reporting duties.
  • Monitored spare parts inventory and addressed shortages with purchasing personnel.
  • Suggested specialized fixtures, test equipment and procedures for failure analysis.
  • Drafted preventive maintenance schedule to support equipment longevity.

Amazon Data Center Technician

Amazon.com
Ashburn, VA
09.2011 - Current
  • Provided operational support to several datacenter sites located in the greater Virginia area
  • Responsible for day to day activities, project work and capacity management Specific duties including hardware repair and replacement
  • Computed rack installation
  • Network and cable installation
  • Provided 24/7 on call coverage on rotating schedules
  • Accepted tasks and documented status using ticketing system, time reports and email.
  • Moved and installed shelves, power strips, rails, servers, switches and other equipment.
  • Installed and managed structured cabling infrastructure.
  • Recorded received products into database using asset tags information, product manufacturer, model and serial number.
  • Reviewed network design and set up copper and fiber-optic cabling infrastructures.
  • Conducted inventory control and reported stock or receiving discrepancies identified when comparing inventory records with physical items or received products and packing slip.
  • Entered device locations and cable connections into database.
  • Assisted with performing infrastructure readiness tests.
  • Identified and reported problem devices and replaced defective parts.
  • Integrated fiber-optic and copper cabling technologies with components of new and existing network infrastructures.
  • Dressed and labeled cables for easy identification and traceability.
  • Supported senior teammates performing crisis management during critical situations or major service outages.
  • Improved overall user experience through support, training, troubleshooting, improvements and communication of system changes.
  • Set up hardware and software in optimal configurations to meet network performance requirements.
  • Diagnosed and executed resolution for network and server issues.
  • Monitored network hardware operations to evaluate proper configuration.
  • Designed and evaluated WAN and LAN connectivity technologies.
  • Investigated and corrected problems with printers, copiers and other peripheral devices.
  • Updated department documentation such as license databases, infrastructure maps and FAQs to maintain consistent response levels.
  • Utilized source code control for tracking configurations and changes.
  • Provided faculty and staff with security software and network configuration support.
  • Monitored sites for capacity needs as well as work priorities through ticketing system
  • Grub/LILO
  • Basic understanding of network install process, design and protocols
  • Good understanding of storage devices and RAID
  • IT Hardware Concepts

DATA CENTER DECOMISIONING TECHNICIAN

AWS
Ashburn, VA
02.2011 - 02.2011
  • Was responsible for processing and facilitating large scale legacy Data Center equipment through a liquidation process to ensure that targeted equipment is ready to be removed off premises
  • Processed large volumes of customer data to ensure that all customer data is sanitized and properly managed
  • Creating / attaching labels and barcodes
  • Hard drive installation and removal, and destruction
  • Basic Networking removal/installation and clearing of configurations
  • Updating progress through a web ticketing system
  • Reporting of processes and regular status updates
  • Documented procedures and ensured company wide security policy concerning decommissioning enterprise equipment’s are strictly adhered to.
  • Supported senior teammates performing crisis management during critical situations or major service outages.
  • Assisted with performing infrastructure readiness tests.
  • Dressed and labeled cables for easy identification and traceability.
  • Entered device locations and cable connections into database.
  • Moved and installed shelves, power strips, rails, servers, switches and other equipment.
  • Reviewed network design and set up copper and fiber-optic cabling infrastructures.
  • Installed and managed structured cabling infrastructure.
  • Recorded received products into database using asset tags information, product manufacturer, model and serial number.
  • Integrated fiber-optic and copper cabling technologies with components of new and existing network infrastructures.
  • Accepted tasks and documented status using ticketing system, time reports and email.
  • Identified and reported problem devices and replaced defective parts.
  • Conducted inventory control and reported stock or receiving discrepancies identified when comparing inventory records with physical items or received products and packing slip.
  • Improved overall user experience through support, training, troubleshooting, improvements and communication of system changes.
  • Set up hardware and software in optimal configurations to meet network performance requirements.
  • Diagnosed and executed resolution for network and server issues.
  • Investigated and corrected problems with printers, copiers and other peripheral devices.
  • Utilized source code control for tracking configurations and changes.
  • Updated department documentation such as license databases, infrastructure maps and FAQs to maintain consistent response levels.

Education

Master of Science - Computer And Information Systems Security

George Washington University, The
Washington, DC

MSc - International Transport Management GRADUATED

SUNY Maritime College Fort

Bachelor of Science - Nautical Science

Regional Maritime University
06.2007

Projected Certifications Security+, CEH(REN) CISSP, AWS Security-Specialty, AWS Solutions Architect-Professional -

GEORGE WASHINTGTON UNIVERSITY
2022

Skills

  • PROVEN SKILLS
  • Self-motivated with a proven track record of delivering results
  • Excellent Management Skills
  • Security Assessment and Authorization (SA& A)
  • Information Systems Management and Security and Ethical Hacking
  • Excellent Interpersonal Skills
  • Excellent ability to take on different tasks
  • Unafraid to take Risk
  • RMF
  • Personally, Identifiable Information protection
  • Disaster Recovery
  • Contingency planning
  • FIPS 199/200
  • Critical Thinking
  • Team Communication and Collaboration
  • Technical Documentation and Reporting
  • Roadmap Planning and Prioritization
  • Team Member Development
  • Developing Technical Solutions
  • Business Recordkeeping
  • Active Learning
  • Best Practices and Methodologies
  • Peer Review
  • Complex Problem-Solving
  • Multi-Factor Authentication
  • Scrum Methodology
  • Technical Support and Assistance
  • Disaster Recovery Planning
  • Professional Relationships
  • Member Support
  • Data Center Migrations
  • Professional Development

Work Availability

monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Quote

Fall seven times; stand up eight.
Japanese proverb

Timeline

AWS Cloud Security Engineer

AWS, Amazon Web Services
03.2022 - Current

CERTIFIED SOLUTIONS ARCHITECT

AWS
09.2021 - Current

NSI TECH

Amazon.com
08.2017 - 06.2018

LOGISTICS SPECIALIST, AREA LEAD

AWS
11.2012 - Current

Amazon Data Center Technician

Amazon.com
09.2011 - Current

DATA CENTER DECOMISIONING TECHNICIAN

AWS
02.2011 - 02.2011

Master of Science - Computer And Information Systems Security

George Washington University, The

MSc - International Transport Management GRADUATED

SUNY Maritime College Fort

Bachelor of Science - Nautical Science

Regional Maritime University

Projected Certifications Security+, CEH(REN) CISSP, AWS Security-Specialty, AWS Solutions Architect-Professional -

GEORGE WASHINTGTON UNIVERSITY

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James Asare Obeng