KONG API Architect@Hybrid. Waukegan, IL

Job Description: KONG API Architect
Hybrid. Waukegan, IL
BGV fully cleared before onboarding

Required Skills:
KONG API
WS


Role Overview:


The KONG Feasibility Assessment Consultant will lead the technical evaluation of KONG API Gateway as a potential platform for the client's API modernization initiative. This role involves assessing architectural fit, integration complexity, security alignment, operational readiness, and overall feasibility of adopting KONG within the client's ecosystem.


Key Responsibilities:
• Conduct a detailed feasibility study of KONG (OSS or Enterprise) for API management and gateway modernization.
• Analyze current-state architecture, including existing gateways, integrations, security models, and deployment environments.
• Evaluate compatibility of KONG with the client's technology stack (cloud/on prem, CI/CD, DevOps, monitoring, logging, etc.).
• Assess functional and non-functional requirements, including performance, scalability, security, governance, and observability.
• Identify integration patterns for upstream services, authentication providers, plugins, and developer portal needs.
• Review KONG plugins (native and custom) and determine suitability for required use cases.
• Estimate effort, timeline, and resource needs for a full KONG implementation or migration.
• Identify risks, gaps, and dependencies associated with adopting KONG.
• Prepare feasibility assessment documentation, including recommendations, architecture options, and decision criteria.
• Collaborate with client architects and SMEs to validate assumptions and align on technical direction.
• Present findings to technical and leadership teams


Required Skills & Experience:
• Strong experience with KONG API Gateway (Enterprise preferred), including configuration, plugins, routing, and policies.
• Deep understanding of API management, and integration architectures.
• Hands-on experience with API security (OAuth2, JWT, mTLS).
• Familiarity with DevOps pipelines, CI/CD, and container platforms (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS/Azure/GCP) and hybrid deployments.
• Knowledge of logging, monitoring, and observability tools (Prometheus, Grafana, etc.).
• Ability to conduct architectural assessments and produce clear technical recommendations.
• Strong communication skills for stakeholder discussions and technical presentations.


Nice-to-Have:
• Experience with other API gateways (Apigee, AWS API Gateway, etc.) for comparison.
• Background in modernization or migration programs.
• Understanding of enterprise security and compliance requirements. Years of Experience: 13+ Years of Experience


Diverse Lynx LLC is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive due consideration for employment without any discrimination. All applicants will be evaluated solely on the basis of their ability, competence and their proven capability to perform the functions outlined in the corresponding role. We promote and support a diverse workforce across all levels in the company.