Kafka Architect (Contract) – Melbourne

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Kafka Architect on a 6‑month contract to lead the design and implementation of high‑performance streaming solutions for our Melbourne‑based team. The role focuses on building robust data pipelines using Apache Kafka and related technologies.

Key responsibilities

• Architect, develop and optimise Kafka clusters and Confluent Cloud environments.
• Design and implement data integration flows using Kafka Connect and Flink SQL for real‑time stream processing.
• Maintain schema governance with Schema Registry and ensure reliable REST/API integrations.
• Collaborate with development teams to integrate Kong API Gateway and enforce CI/CD pipelines via GitLab.
• Provide unit, system integration testing (SIT) and end‑to‑end (E2E) support for streaming applications.

Required profile

• 12–18 years of professional experience in Java and Spring Boot development.
• Deep expertise with Apache Kafka, Confluent Cloud, Kafka Connect and stream processing frameworks.
• Eligibility to work in Australia (Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanent resident).

Required skills

• Java
• Spring Boot
• Apache Kafka / Confluent Cloud
• Kafka Connect
• Flink SQL / stream processing
• Schema Registry
• REST / API integration
• Kong Gateway
• GitLab CI/CD
• Unit testing, SIT support, E2E support

What we offer

• 6‑month fixed‑term contract with the possibility of extension.