KONG API Architect | Enterprise API Architect (KONG & AWS)

We are seeking an elite, senior-level KONG API Architect for a high-impact, hybrid engagement based out of Waukegan, IL. Serving as a KONG Feasibility Assessment Consultant, the successful candidate will lead the comprehensive technical evaluation of the KONG API Gateway platform for a major API modernization initiative. This strategic role is responsible for analyzing current-state architecture, evaluating technology stack compatibility, assessing both functional and non-functional requirements, and presenting definitive architectural recommendations to technical and executive leadership teams., * Conduct a rigorous architectural feasibility study of KONG (OSS or Enterprise) to evaluate its fit, integration complexity, security alignment, and operational readiness within the ecosystem.

• Analyze current-state architecture-including existing legacy gateways, integrations, security models, and deployment environments-to identify risks, technical gaps, and dependencies.
• Evaluate KONG plugin ecosystems (both native and custom) against complex enterprise use cases, defining integration patterns for upstream services, authentication providers, and developer portals.
• Formulate detailed effort estimations, migration timelines, resource requirements, and architecture options for a full-scale KONG implementation.
• Partner closely with client enterprise architects and SMEs to validate technical assumptions, prepare formal assessment documentation, and present findings to technical and leadership stakeholders.

Primary (Must-Have):

• 13+ years of enterprise IT experience with a focus on API Architecture and Integration
• Deep technical expertise with KONG API Gateway (Enterprise preferred), including configuration, plugins, routing, and traffic policies
• Strong hands-on experience with AWS cloud platforms and hybrid cloud deployment models
• Proven experience conducting architectural feasibility assessments and producing clear, structured technical recommendations
• Solid command of API security patterns, including OAuth2, JWT, and mTLS

Secondary (Good to Have):

• Hands-on familiarity with DevOps pipelines, CI/CD automation, and container platforms like Docker and Kubernetes
• Knowledge of logging, monitoring, and observability stacks such as Prometheus and Grafana
• Comparative experience with other API gateways like Apigee or AWS API Gateway
• Prior background leading technical evaluations for enterprise-wide application modernization or migration initiatives

Medical | Dental | Vision | 401(k)

EEOC Compliance

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.