API Architect

Job Summary Our client is seeking an experienced API Architect to design, develop, and deliver scalable API and microservices solutions that support enterprise business objectives. This role combines architecture leadership, hands‑on development, stakeholder collaboration, and API platform advocacy within a cloud‑native Agile environment. Core Responsibilities Design, develop, test, deploy, and support scalable APIs and microservices using cloud‑native architectures and distributed systems. Lead API solution architecture, including public and private APIs, cloud messaging, ground‑to‑cloud connectivity, and highly available enterprise integrations. Define and maintain architecture standards, design principles, governance policies, and technical guidelines aligned with business and technology strategies. Collaborate with business leaders, product owners, architects, engineers, and stakeholders to translate business requirements into API and functional solutions. Create technical architecture, infrastructure designs, and implementation deliverables that meet business and customer needs. Lead hands‑on development activities, including coding, debugging, testing, documentation, and production support. Manage and prioritize API product and feature backlogs while participating in Agile planning and delivery processes. Partner with QA and testing teams to ensure software quality, performance, reliability, and security. Provide application support, issue analysis, troubleshooting, incident resolution, and on‑call support as needed. Serve as an API platform advocate and trusted technical advisor to business, operations, and technology teams. Build strong cross‑functional relationships and drive innovative architecture solutions across multiple teams and business lines. Required Skills & Experience (Must‑Haves) 8+ years of experience. Demonstrated experience designing, developing, and implementing enterprise‑scale APIs and microservices architectures in cloud‑based environments. Strong expertise in RESTful API design principles, API lifecycle management, and the development of secure, scalable, and highly available services. Hands‑on experience with API management platforms such as Apigee, Kong, MuleSoft, AWS API Gateway, or similar API gateway technologies. Deep understanding of microservices architecture, distributed systems, event‑driven design patterns, and service‑oriented architecture (SOA) concepts. Java full stack and IBM BAW experience. Key Competencies & Behaviors Strategic Collaboration Ownership and Accountability Innovation and Continuous Improvement Work Environment Location: Hopkins, MN (Hybrid) Compensation & Benefits Pay Range: Approximately $65.00 – $80.00 per hour (final compensation may vary). Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance Plans Employee‑Owned Profit Sharing (ESOP) 401(k) offered #J-18808-Ljbffr KellyMitchell Group