API Architect

JOB SUMMARY We are seeking an experienced API Architect to lead the design, implementation, and deployment of API solutions across cloud-native environments, with a strong focus on AWS and distributed systems. The ideal candidate will possess deep technical expertise, strong leadership skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with business and technology teams to deliver innovative and scalable API architectures aligned with enterprise strategy. Key Responsibilities Design, implement, and deploy API solutions across cloud-native environments, focusing on AWS and distributed systems. Lead the development and delivery of API and microservices-based solutions, including hands-on coding and technical leadership. Collaborate with business leaders, product owners, and cross-functional teams to translate business requirements into scalable API architectures. Define and enforce API design standards, guidelines, and best practices across the organization. Create architecture designs and technical deliverables aligned with enterprise strategy and infrastructure standards. Manage and prioritize API and product feature backlogs in an Agile environment. Develop and maintain public and private APIs supporting multiple lines of business. Ensure high availability, scalability, and performance of API platforms and distributed systems. Work closely with QA/testing teams to ensure software quality and resolve defects. Provide application support including troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and on-call support. Participate in client discussions to understand requirements and provide consulting to internal stakeholders. Build strong relationships with business, operations, and technology teams to deliver innovative solutions. Contribute to enterprise architecture strategy, including evolving systems, policies, and governance frameworks. Required Qualifications Minimum 8+ years of experience in software engineering, API development, and distributed systems. Minimum 5+ years of experience in API design and development (RESTful APIs, microservices architecture). Minimum 3+ years of experience working with cloud platforms (preferably AWS: API Gateway, Lambda, ECS/EKS, SQS/SNS, etc.). Strong experience in designing and building scalable, highly available distributed systems. Hands-on experience with API management, versioning, security (OAuth2, JWT), and governance. Experience with Agile SDLC, backlog management, and working with product owners. Proficiency in at least one programming language (e.g., Java, Python, Node.js). Experience with cloud messaging and event-driven architectures. Strong understanding of system integration patterns and ground-to-cloud connectivity. Experience in debugging, testing, and production support of enterprise applications. Excellent communication skills with the ability to collaborate across business and technical teams. Bachelors degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or equivalent work experience. Ability to travel occasionally (1030%) depending on project and stakeholder needs. Preferred Qualifications Experience in API platform strategy and enterprise-wide governance. Exposure to multi-region and multi-cloud architectures. Experience with DevOps, CI/CD pipelines, and Infrastructure as Code (Terraform/CloudFormation/CDK). Knowledge of GraphQL, gRPC, or event-driven API patterns. Prior experience in financial services or regulated industries. Experience mentoring teams or leading architecture initiatives. Education: Bachelors Degree