Pulak Kar
Cuttack
Summary
Cloud Engineer with significant expertise in Infrastructure as Code and CI/CD automation at EPAM Systems Ltd. Demonstrated success in designing secure AWS architectures and reducing costs, while mentoring teams to improve operational efficiency. Proficient in Terraform and AWS services, delivering cloud solutions that meet business goals.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Systems Engineer
Epam Systems Pvt Ltd
Bengaluru
10.2025 - Current
- Implemented GitOps-based continuous delivery using Argo CD to manage Kubernetes workloads on Amazon EKS
- Designed declarative Kubernetes manifests (Deployments, Services, Ingress, HPA) stored in Git as the single source of truth
- Automated application deployments using Argo CD sync policies (manual & auto-sync) with self-healing and drift detection
- Implemented Blue-Green and Rolling deployments using Argo CD + Kubernetes Services
Cloud Engineer
Cognizant Technology Solutions India Private Limited
07.2022 - 10.2025
- Designed, deployed, and automated a highly available, scalable, and secure AWS cloud infrastructure to support enterprise applications.
- Leveraged Infrastructure as Code (IaC) with Terraform for provisioning and managed CI/CD pipelines using Jenkins and GitHub Actions to streamline application deployment.
- Focused on achieving scalability, cost efficiency, and adherence to security best practices.
- Key components included VPC architecture design with public/private subnets, NAT Gateways, and route tables; automated provisioning of EC2, RDS, S3, and Load Balancers; and implementation of auto-scaling and load balancing for web applications hosted on EC2 and ECS.
- Set up monitoring and alerting mechanisms using AWS CloudWatch, CloudTrail, and AWS Config, and ensured secure access and compliance with IAM policies, roles, and KMS encryption.
- Additionally, optimized AWS costs through Trusted Advisor and S3 lifecycle policies.
- A global insurance and financial services corporation headquartered in New York. Offers property casualty insurance, life and retirement products, and other financial services. Known for its role in the 2008 financial crisis, which required a government bailout, and its subsequent restructuring and repayment of taxpayers. Website: https://www.cognizant.com
- Project Roles: Cloud Engineer
- Responsibilities: Designed VPC architecture with public and private subnets, NAT Gateways, and route tables to ensure secure and efficient network infrastructure. Automated provisioning of EC2 instances, RDS databases, S3 buckets, and Load Balancers using Terraform modules for consistent and scalable deployments. Implemented auto-scaling and load balancing strategies for web applications hosted on EC2 and ECS to enhance performance and reliability. Set up monitoring and alerting mechanisms using CloudWatch, CloudTrail, and AWS Config to ensure system health and compliance. Deployed CI/CD pipelines using Jenkins and GitHub Actions to streamline build, test, and deployment processes. Configured IAM policies, roles, and KMS encryption to enforce secure access and compliance with organizational standards. Optimized AWS costs by leveraging Trusted Advisor recommendations and implementing S3 lifecycle policies for cost-effective storage management.
Associate Consultant
Wipro Technologies
02.2022 - 07.2022
- Designed and implemented a fully automated, production-ready AWS infrastructure to support scalable and secure deployments across multiple environments.
- Focused on applying Infrastructure as Code (IaC) principles using Terraform and Ansible, the project ensured consistent and compliant infrastructure delivery.
- Integrated Jenkins CI/CD pipelines for seamless continuous deployment, implemented secure VPC networking, automated configuration management, and centralized state management with drift detection.
- A+E Networks is a global media company that owns and operates cable and satellite television channels, including the A&E, History, and Lifetime channels. It is a joint venture between Hearst Communications and The Walt Disney Company and produces and distributes content across multiple platforms, such as traditional TV, streaming services, and digital media. Website: https://www.wipro.com
- Project Roles: Associate Consultant
- Responsibilities: Developed and deployed production-grade AWS infrastructure using Terraform modules across multiple AWS accounts and environments, including Dev, QA, and Prod. Integrated Terraform with Jenkins pipelines to automate provisioning and deployments, incorporating Slack notifications for build status and deployment updates. Managed remote Terraform state using S3 and DynamoDB for state locking and versioning, and implemented drift detection to monitor and reconcile configuration changes. Designed and configured secure VPC architecture with public/private subnets, NAT Gateways, Internet Gateways, Route Tables, and Network ACLs for optimized network routing. Created and executed Ansible playbooks for post-deployment configuration of EC2 instances, integrating them with Terraform using remote-exec and null provisioners for seamless automation. Collaborated with DevOps and Security teams to standardize infrastructure deployment practices and maintained comprehensive documentation of IaC workflows and environment configurations.
Technical Service Specialist
Kyndryl Solution Pvt Ltd
09.2021 - 02.2022
- The project focused on designing and implementing a secure, scalable, and automated AWS Cloud infrastructure to support enterprise-grade applications across multiple environments and regions.
- The primary objective was to modernize infrastructure delivery by adopting Infrastructure as Code (IaC) practices alongside continuous integration and continuous deployment (CI/CD) methodologies.
- As part of the initiative, I was responsible for architecting cloud solutions, developing reusable Terraform modules, and integrating automation pipelines using Jenkins and XLR to enable consistent and repeatable deployments.
- The solution utilized key AWS services, including VPC, EC2, S3, IAM, KMS, and CloudWatch, to ensure a secure, highly available, and resilient environment.
- The project also prioritized governance, cost optimization, and security compliance by implementing AWS Config, KMS encryption, and IAM best practices.
- Ericsson is a Swedish multinational telecommunications and networking equipment company, founded in 1876. It is a leading provider of ICT solutions, offering products and services for mobile and fixed network operators in over 180 countries. The company has a significant patent portfolio covering 2G, 3G, and 4G technologies, and a major role in shaping mobile communications worldwide, with over 40% of the world's mobile traffic passing through its networks. Website: https://www.kyndryl.com
- Project Roles: Technical Service Specialist
- Responsibilities: Delivered end-to-end AWS Cloud projects covering planning, architecture design, infrastructure provisioning, and deployment using Terraform and modern DevOps practices. Developed and maintained modular Terraform codebases to ensure scalability, reusability, and consistency across multiple AWS accounts and regions. Integrated and optimized CI/CD pipelines using Jenkins and XebiaLabs Release (XLR) to automate infrastructure provisioning, configuration, and application deployment processes. Implemented multi-region deployments leveraging Terraform workspaces and remote state backends (S3 and DynamoDB) for state locking and environment management. Collaborated closely with product owners, developers, and stakeholders to align infrastructure solutions with business requirements and meet Service Level Agreements (SLAs). Performed cloud security posture assessments and enforced compliance by implementing IAM policies, KMS encryption, AWS Config rules, and access control mechanisms. Monitored and optimized AWS infrastructure for cost efficiency, reliability, and high availability, adhering to best practices and Well-Architected Framework guidelines. Provided technical guidance and documentation for operational handover and supported teams during production deployments and incident resolution.
Technical Service Specialist
IBM India Pvt Limited
01.2020 - 08.2021
- The project aimed to design and implement a secure, scalable, and automated AWS Cloud infrastructure to support enterprise-grade applications across multiple environments and regions.
- Its primary goal was to modernize infrastructure delivery by adopting Infrastructure as Code (IaC) practices and continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) methodologies.
- My responsibilities included architecting cloud solutions, creating reusable Terraform modules, and integrating automation pipelines using Jenkins and XLR for consistent and repeatable deployments.
- The solution leveraged key AWS services such as VPC, EC2, S3, IAM, KMS, and CloudWatch to ensure security, high availability, and resilience.
- Additionally, the project emphasized governance, cost optimization, and security compliance by implementing AWS Config, KMS encryption, and IAM best practices.
- Ericsson is a Swedish multinational telecommunications and networking equipment company, founded in 1876. It is a leading provider of ICT solutions, offering products and services for mobile and fixed network operators in over 180 countries. The company has a significant patent portfolio covering 2G, 3G, and 4G technologies, and a major role in shaping mobile communications worldwide, with over 40% of the world's mobile traffic passing through its networks. Website: https://www.ibm.com
- Project Roles: Technical Service Specialist
- Responsibilities: Delivered end-to-end AWS Cloud projects, including planning, architecture design, infrastructure provisioning, and deployment using Terraform and modern DevOps practices. Developed and maintained modular Terraform codebases to ensure scalability, reusability, and consistency across multiple AWS accounts and regions. Integrated and optimized CI/CD pipelines using Jenkins and XebiaLabs Release (XLR) to automate infrastructure provisioning, configuration, and application deployment processes. Implemented multi-region deployments leveraging Terraform workspaces and remote state backends (S3 and DynamoDB) for state locking and environment management. Collaborated closely with product owners, developers, and stakeholders to align infrastructure solutions with business requirements and meet Service Level Agreements (SLAs). Conducted cloud security posture assessments and enforced compliance by implementing IAM policies, KMS encryption, AWS Config rules, and access control mechanisms. Monitored and optimized AWS infrastructure for cost efficiency, reliability, and high availability, adhering to best practices and Well-Architected Framework guidelines. Provided technical guidance and documentation for operational handover and supported teams during production deployments and incident resolution.
IT Operations Analyst
Accenture
05.2014 - 12.2019
- The project aimed to build and manage a highly available and secure AWS cloud infrastructure to support enterprise-level applications and critical workloads.
- Its objectives included enhancing system performance, cost efficiency, and operational reliability through automation, monitoring, and Infrastructure as Code (IaC) practices.
- As part of the project, AWS cloud environments were designed, implemented, and maintained across multiple accounts and regions.
- Automation tools like Terraform, Ansible, and Jenkins were utilized for infrastructure provisioning and configuration management, while security and compliance were enforced using IAM, KMS, and AWS Config.
- Key responsibilities included managing VPC architectures, EC2 instances, RDS databases, load balancing, storage optimization, and disaster recovery (DR) setups.
- LafargeHolcim was the global leader in building materials and solutions, formed by the 2015 merger of Lafarge and Holcim. The company was active in four segments: cement, aggregates, ready-mix concrete, and solutions & products, operating in about 80 countries. In 2021, the company rebranded to become Holcim and continues its business as one of the world's leading construction material suppliers, focusing on sustainable solutions for urbanization. Website: https://www.accenture.com
- Project Roles: IT Operations Analyst
- Responsibilities: Designed and implemented AWS cloud infrastructure using services such as EC2, ELB, S3, Glacier, RDS, VPC, IAM, Route 53, and CloudWatch. Created and managed AMIs, snapshots, and EBS volumes, ensuring optimal resource scaling for CPU, memory, and storage. Built and maintained VPCs, subnets, NAT gateways, route tables, and VPN connections to enable secure communication across multiple availability zones. Configured security groups, NACLs, and IAM roles/policies to enforce least-privilege access and ensure compliance with organizational policies. Developed Terraform configurations to automate and standardize the provisioning of disaster recovery environments. Automated EC2 lifecycle processes with AWS Lambda and Boto3, including snapshot creation, daily instance reporting, and start/stop scheduling for cost reduction. Managed S3 storage and lifecycle policies, utilizing Glacier for long-term data archiving and retrieval. Configured and maintained RDS databases, overseeing backups, failovers, and performance optimizations. Monitored cloud resources using Amazon CloudWatch, creating alarms and dashboards for proactive performance management. Implemented DNS management and high-availability failover routing using Amazon Route 53. Applied ITIL concepts to manage incidents, changes, and problems efficiently in a 24x7 operational environment. Enhanced Linux server performance by optimizing configurations, automating maintenance, and implementing robust backup strategies. Developed real-time monitoring and alerting systems to identify and address performance bottlenecks proactively. Provided technical support and troubleshooting for production issues, ensuring minimal downtime and adherence to SLAs.
Associate
Qsource Global Consulting
11.2012 - 05.2014
- The project aimed to enhance the performance, stability, and security of Linux servers within AWS-hosted environments.
- Its primary objectives were to ensure system reliability, strengthen security posture, and improve operational efficiency through automation, monitoring, and proactive maintenance.
- Key responsibilities included managing and optimizing Linux-based systems across multiple environments, implementing automated scripts for routine administrative tasks, integrating real-time monitoring solutions, and promptly resolving complex technical issues.
- Additionally, the project focused on improving network security and infrastructure resilience through effective patch management and vulnerability remediation.
- Improved system performance by optimizing Linux configurations, streamlining backup processes, and conducting routine maintenance for peak reliability. Implemented real-time monitoring tools (such as CloudWatch, Nagios, or Prometheus) for proactive performance analysis and early detection of potential system issues. Provided direct end-user support, diagnosing and resolving issues in Linux-based systems and applications to minimize downtime and maximize productivity. Resolved complex technical incidents by applying advanced troubleshooting and root cause analysis methodologies, ensuring minimal service disruption. Automated repetitive administrative tasks using custom shell and Python scripts, improving efficiency, consistency, and reducing manual intervention. Trained and mentored junior administrators, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improving the team’s technical capabilities in Linux and system management. Collaborated with cross-functional teams and users to identify, analyze, and correct system-level issues, ensuring smooth operations across production and development environments. Enhanced network and system security by identifying vulnerabilities, applying corrective measures, and implementing secure configuration baselines. Applied regular security and functionality patches to maintain optimal protection against intrusions, vulnerabilities, and performance degradation. Website: https://www.qsourceglobal.com
- Project Roles: Associate
- Responsibilities: Optimized Linux configurations, streamlined backup processes, and performed routine maintenance to enhance system reliability and performance. Implemented real-time monitoring tools, such as CloudWatch, Nagios, and Prometheus, to proactively analyze performance and detect potential system issues. Provided end-user support by diagnosing and resolving issues in Linux-based systems and applications, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity. Applied advanced troubleshooting and root cause analysis to resolve complex technical incidents, ensuring minimal service disruption. Automated repetitive administrative tasks using custom shell and Python scripts, improving operational efficiency and consistency. Trained and mentored junior administrators, fostering continuous learning and enhancing the team’s technical capabilities in Linux and system management. Collaborated with cross-functional teams and users to identify, analyze, and resolve system-level issues, ensuring seamless operations across production and development environments. Strengthened network and system security by identifying vulnerabilities, applying corrective measures, and implementing secure configuration baselines. Applied regular security and functionality patches to safeguard systems against intrusions, vulnerabilities, and performance degradation. Documented system configurations, operational processes, and incident resolutions to standardize practices and improve knowledge management across the organization.
Education
Master - Computer Science
INDIRA GANDHI INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
01.2011
Skills
- AWS architecture design
- Infrastructure as code
- Kubernetes management
- GitOps practices
- Cost management
- Team collaboration
- Disaster recovery planning
- Networking principles
- CI/CD automation
- Infrastructure management
- Containerization technologies
- Linux and Unix administration
- Root-cause analysis
Timeline
Senior Systems Engineer
Epam Systems Pvt Ltd
10.2025 - Current
Cloud Engineer
Cognizant Technology Solutions India Private Limited
07.2022 - 10.2025
Associate Consultant
Wipro Technologies
02.2022 - 07.2022
Technical Service Specialist
Kyndryl Solution Pvt Ltd
09.2021 - 02.2022
Technical Service Specialist
IBM India Pvt Limited
01.2020 - 08.2021
IT Operations Analyst
Accenture
05.2014 - 12.2019
Associate
Qsource Global Consulting
11.2012 - 05.2014
Master - Computer Science
INDIRA GANDHI INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY