API Technical Lead

Job Title: API Technical Lead

Location: London (Hybrid)

Job Description: We are seeking an experienced API Technical Lead to design, develop, and manage API solutions leveraging Kong API Gateway, IBM DataPower, and IBM Cloud Pak. This role requires a deep understanding of API management, security, and cloud-native architectures. The ideal candidate will have expertise in designing scalable, secure, and high-performing API ecosystems for enterprise applications.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the architecture, design, and implementation of API solutions using Kong API Gateway, IBM DataPower, and CloudPak.
• Define API standards, best practices, governance, and security models for API development and management.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate APIs with various backend services and external platforms.
• Ensure APIs are optimized for performance, scalability, and security.
• Implement API authentication, authorization, and security protocols (OAuth, JWT, Mutual TLS, etc.).
• Monitor API performance and troubleshoot issues using observability tools.
• Design and implement API versioning, rate limiting, and throttling policies.
• Provide mentorship to developers and drive API-first design principles.
• Evaluate new API technologies and trends to continuously improve API strategy.
• Work closely with DevOps teams to implement CI/CD pipelines for API deployments.

Required Qualifications:

• 7+ years of experience in API development and management.
• Strong expertise in Kong API Gateway, IBM DataPower, and IBM CloudPak for Integration.
• Hands-on experience with API design, development, and lifecycle management.
• Proficiency in RESTful and GraphQL API design and development.
• Experience with containerization (Docker, Kubernetes) and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Strong knowledge of API security standards, including OAuth, OpenID Connect, and API Gateway security.
• Experience with scripting and automation using Python, Shell, or Terraform.
• Familiarity with API monitoring tools like Prometheus, Grafana, or Splunk.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication and leadership skills to guide teams and stakeholders.