Senior API Developer

Senior API DeveloperAt ValidaTek, we modernize and optimize IT services to solve some of the most critical challenges facing federal civilian and defense agencies. From customers to partners to top-talent employees, ValidaTek puts people first, empowering them to exceed expectations and transform government organizations. Our employees are building purpose-driven careers, not just filling jobs. We bring together people with many different perspectives, experiences, and talents to drive innovation and achieve more together than we can individually. Our commitment to quality and performance optimization is the reason why our IT Service Projects and New Development Projects have been appraised at CMMI Maturity Level 5, positioning us as one of a handful of elite companies to receive the highest form of third-party validation.Summary: We are seeking an experienced Senior API Developer to join our team and take charge of designing, developing, and maintaining high-quality APIs that power our applications. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in API design principles, security standards, and best practices, along with proficiency in programming languages and frameworks. This role also requires leadership skills to mentor junior developers and ensure effective collaboration within the team.Responsibilities:Design and implement efficient, scalable, and user-friendly APIs following best practices, including RESTful API design, API versioning, and comprehensive API documentation.Utilize programming languages such as Java, Python, or JavaScript, along with frameworks like Spring, Flask, or Node.js to develop robust APIs.Write clean, maintainable code that adheres to industry standards, ensuring high performance and reliability.Implement API security standards, including OAuth 2.0, JWT, and API keys, to protect user data and ensure secure access to APIs.Conduct thorough testing of APIs using tools and techniques such as unit testing, integration testing, and API mocking to validate functionality and performance.Integration of AI tools into the software development life cycle.Automate the deployment of containerized micro services using continuous integration and continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipelines.Develop and execute automated tests to ensure the reliability and efficiency of API endpoints.Provide mentorship and guidance to junior developers, fostering their growth and encouraging best practices in API development.Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams to understand project requirements and translate them into technical solutions.Communicate complex technical concepts clearly to non-technical stakeholders, ensuring alignment on project objectives.Manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously, demonstrating strong organizational and time-management skills.Lead project planning, estimation, and tracking efforts within an agile development environment, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality APIs.Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in a Computer Science related field and 7+ years of API development/design experience. Experience may be substituted in lieu of degree. Active DoD Secret clearance Preferred. Must be able to obtain a DoD public trust Experience within the DHA theater – highly preferred. Proficient in API design principles, including RESTful API design, versioning, and documentation. Deep understanding of API best practices, with a proven ability to design APIs that are efficient, scalable, and user-friendly. Strong programming skills in languages such as Java, Python, or JavaScript, with experience in development frameworks like Spring, Flask, or Node.js. Experience with API security standards, including OAuth 2.0, JWT, and API keys, with a focus on data protection and security. Familiarity with API testing tools and methodologies, including unit testing, integration testing, and API mocking. Strong leadership skills, with a passion for mentoring and developing junior developers. Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders. Proven ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Experience with agile development methodologies, with a track record of leading project planning, estimation, and tracking efforts.This is an exciting opportunity for a Senior API Developer to play a key role in shaping our API architecture and driving innovation in our development efforts. Join us in delivering exceptional digital experiences through robust API solutions.Salary Disclosure Actual salary will be based on a variety of factors including but not limited to experience, geographic location, contract affordability, internal equity, education, and certifications. The upper end of the salary range may be reserved for individuals who have demonstrated tenure with the company, seniority, and proven excellent performance. This includes factors such as education, certifications, and extensive/unique experience beyond what is required.EEO Statement ValidaTek is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local laws. Applicants who are selected for employment will be required to verify authorization to work in the United States. Offers of employment will be contingent upon passing a post-offer background check.