We are seeking an experienced API Software Architect for a centralized API Services team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in designing and implementing scalable API solutions, with a focus on driving innovation and ensuring the highest standards of performance, security, and reliability. This role will also champion technical approaches and solutions across the organization.
Key Responsibilities:
Provide API Architectural direction in a centralised team to give the organisation direction on design, development, and deployment of API solutions across the organization.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define API requirements and ensure alignment with business objectives.
Establish and enforce API design standards, best practices, and governance policies.
Champion technical approaches and solutions, advocating for best practices and innovative technologies.
Mentor and guide a team of API developers, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and technical excellence.
Conduct code reviews and provide constructive feedback to ensure high-quality code.
Monitor and optimize API performance, scalability, and security.
Stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technologies to drive innovation within the team.
Develop and maintain comprehensive API documentation and training materials.
Manage the lifecycle of APIs, including versioning, deprecation, and retirement.
Skill Set / Qualifications:
Proven experience as an API Architect or similar role, with a strong portfolio of successful API projects.
In-depth knowledge of RESTful and/or GraphQL API design principles and best practices.
Proficiency in programming languages such as Java, Python, or Node.js.
Experience with API management platforms (e.g. Kong API Gateway, Kong Konnect).
Strong understanding of security protocols and practices, including OAuth, JWT, and SSL/TLS.
Messaging brokers (experience in RabbitMQ an advantage)
Infrastructure-as-code (Ansible, Terraform, Jenkins2 an advantage)
Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
Preferred Skills:
Experience with microservices architecture and containerization technologies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes).
Familiarity with DevOps practices and CI/CD pipelines.
Knowledge of cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud).
What will you get for this role?
Competitive market leading salary depending on skills, experience, and qualifications.
Generous pension (employee contribution matching of up to 14% if you contribute 8%)
Annual performance related bonus and pay review.
Holiday allowance of 29 days plus bank holidays, and the option to buy/sell up to 5 additional days.
Free car parking
Generous Health & dental insurance contributions after six months
Aviva Matching Share Plan and Save As You Earn scheme and Approved Profit Share Scheme
Cycle to Work benefit scheme.
TaxSaver Travel Scheme
Family friendly parent’s (matching paternity and maternity leave) and carer’s leave.
Up to 40% discount for some Aviva products plus discounts for Friends and Family
Employee Assistance Programme
Volunteering days
Professional qualification support and transparent career progression plans