Kong Architect

Key Responsibilities:
API Gateway Management:
Deploy, configure, and manage Kong API Gateway instances in various environments (on-premises, cloud, hybrid).


API Development and Integration:
Design, develop, and implement APIs using Kong, including custom plugins and integrations with backend services. Good knowledge on API Orchestration.


Security and Performance:
Implement and enforce API security policies (e.g., OAuth2, JWT, mTLS), optimize API performance, and ensure high availability and reliability.


Monitoring and Troubleshooting:
Implement monitoring and logging solutions (e.g., Dynatrace/ELK) to proactively identify and resolve issues, ensuring seamless API operation.


Collaboration and Documentation:
Work closely with cross-functional teams (development, operations, security) to ensure seamless integration and maintain comprehensive documentation for APIs, configurations, and procedures.


Automation and Best Practices:
Participate in CI/CD processes, contribute to automation and deployment pipelines, and advocate for API management best practices (versioning, documentation, access control). Terraform automations are must.


Required Qualifications:
Technical Expertise:
Proven experience with Kong API Gateway, including its architecture, functionalities, and plugin development.


API Design Principles:
Strong understanding of RESTful API design, OpenAPI specifications, OIDC, and experience with web services and microservices architectures.


Scripting and Tools:
Proficiency in scripting languages (e.g., Lua, Python) and experience with DevOps principles and tools (e.g., Git, Git Actions, CI/CD, Docker, Kubernetes).


Cloud and Security:
Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and API security tools (e.g., OAuth, OIDC, Auth0).


Problem-Solving and Communication:
Excellent problem-solving, debugging, communication, and collaboration skills.


Desired Qualifications:
Certifications in Kong or related technologies.
Experience with API testing tools (e.g., Postman, JMeter, Insomnia).
Experience with specific integration platforms (e.g.,IBM DataPower/Websphere MQ).
Experience with confluence documentation.