Lead Kafka Developer

Job Title: Software Engineer Lead Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (Hybrid) Job Summary: We are seeking an experienced technology leader to drive the design and operation of scalable, high-throughput data streaming platforms within the organization. Our team focuses on implementing event-driven architectures that support business-critical solutions, offering the opportunity to make a significant technical impact while mentoring engineers and setting best practices. Responsibilities • Lead the design and development of Kafka-based streaming architectures and data pipelines. • Oversee Kafka cluster setup, configuration, tuning, monitoring, and upgrades to ensure reliability and performance. • Establish standards for topic design, schema management, security, and reliability while collaborating with application, platform, and data teams to integrate event-driven solutions. • Troubleshoot complex production issues, drive root-cause analysis, and provide technical guidance and code reviews to team members. Required • Extensive experience with Apache Kafka, including producers, consumers, streams, and connectors in production environments. • Proficiency in Java and/or Scala; knowledge of Python is considered a plus. • Deep understanding of distributed systems, messaging patterns, and event-driven architectures, as well as strong experience with schema registries, monitoring, and performance. • 8 or more years of relevant experience in software engineering, with demonstrated ability to mentor developers and facilitate complex problem resolution. About SSI People: With over 26 years of industry experience, SSi People has built its reputation and expertise on putting people first. Everything we do works toward delivering exceptional experience for our consultants, our clients, and our internal team. Through a genuine commitment to people in everything we do. We have developed refined processes and a stellar internal team to deliver talent quickly. More importantly, we focus on building long-term relationships, not transactions. Putting people first is just what we do well. By applying for this job, you agree to receive calls, AI-generated calls, text messages, or emails from SSi People and its affiliates, and contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages. You can reply STOP to cancel and HELP for help. You can access our privacy policy here: SSi People Privacy Policy