Kong API Integration Architect

Position: Kong API Integration Architect
Location: London or Norwich (Hybrid-2/3 days a week from office)
12 months FTC or permanent

Job Description:

Key Responsibilities

• Design and Implementation: Design, develop, and deploy scalable API integration solutions that connect diverse systems and applications, both internal and external.
• Kong Gateway Administration: Configure, maintain, and manage the Kong API Gateway (Enterprise and OSS versions), implementing security measures such as OAuth2, JWT, and rate limiting.
• Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including developers, business analysts, and vendors, to gather requirements and define API specifications.
• Troubleshooting & Support: Monitor API performance, troubleshoot integration issues promptly, and provide technical support to development teams and clients.
• Documentation: Create and maintain comprehensive documentation, including API specifications, integration guides, and data mappings.
• Performance Optimization: Optimize existing API connections for performance, reliability, and scalability.
• Security & Compliance: Ensure API security and compliance with industry standards and regulatory controls (e.g., NIST 800-53 in federal contexts).

Required Skills and Qualifications

Experience: Proven experience in API development, integration, system architecture, and specific experience with Kong API Gateway administration (often 2+ years of Kong-specific experience is preferred).

Technical Proficiency:

• Strong programming skills in languages such as Python, Java, JavaScript, or Node.js.
• Expertise in API standards and protocols, including RESTful and SOAP APIs, JSON, and XML.
• Experience with API management tools and frameworks (e.g., Postman, Swagger, Apigee).
• Familiarity with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP), microservices architecture, and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Knowledge of message brokers and event streaming technologies (e.g., Kafka, RabbitMQ).

Soft Skills:

• Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.
• Excellent communication skills for collaborating with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to quality assurance