Streaming Data Architect (Kafka / Confluent)

Streaming Data Architect (Kafka / Confluent) Location: Remote (United States) with travel as required Company: Prolifics Employment Type: Full-Time About Prolifics Prolifics helps organizations accelerate digital transformation through cloud, data, AI, integration, and application modernization services. As enterprises increasingly adopt real-time, event-driven architectures, we are expanding our capability in streaming data platforms to support mission-critical modernization initiatives. Role Overview The Confluent Kafka Architect / SME will serve as the technical leader for Kafka and Confluent-based solutions across client engagements. You will architect scalable streaming platforms, guide implementation teams, support pre-sales and solutioning, and help establish Prolifics as a credible delivery partner in event-driven architecture and real-time data platforms. Key Responsibilities - Architect event-driven solutions using Apache Kafka, Confluent Platform/Cloud, Kafka Streams, and ksqlDB - Design scalable, secure real-time data pipelines - Deploy and manage Kafka clusters across on-prem and cloud (AWS, Azure, GCP) - Define topic strategy, partitioning, replication, and retention policies - Implement Kafka-based integration and modernization patterns - Manage Kafka Connect, Schema Registry, and security configurations - Monitor, tune performance, and manage incidents - Automate deployments using Terraform, Ansible, or Kubernetes - Support client architecture discussions and pre-sales efforts - Mentor teams and help build Kafka capability within Prolifics Required Qualifications - 5+ years experience with Apache Kafka or Confluent - Strong understanding of Kafka architecture and internals - Experience with Kafka Streams, ksqlDB, Kafka Connect - Cloud experience (AWS, Azure, or GCP) - Kubernetes/container platform experience - Proficiency in Java, Python, or Scala - Strong troubleshooting and communication skills Preferred Certifications - Confluent Certified Administrator for Apache Kafka® - Confluent Certified Developer for Apache Kafka® - Confluent Cloud Certified Operator Nice to Have - Experience with Confluent Cloud - Large-scale distributed systems experience - Exposure to AI/data streaming architectures Benefits Prolifics offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the health, well-being, and financial security of our employees and their families. Benefits may include: - Medical, dental, and vision insurance - 401(k) retirement plan with company match - Paid time off (PTO) and company holidays - Life and disability insurance - Flexible work arrangements (role dependent) - Professional development and training opportunities Equal Opportunity Employer Prolifics is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.