Python Software Lead /Architect

Python Software Lead /Architect Houston Texas - Hybrid Role is primarily hands-on80% hands-on development20% architectureResponsibilities include: Owning application development end-to-endBackend-heavy development (Python preferred)Working with cloud infrastructure (Azure or AWS)Collaborating with data engineers and business stakeholdersCI/CD, deployment, security, and integrationFrontend is minimal; backend strength is more important.Long-term potential to grow into a Solution Architect role as more projects are approved.Key ResponsibilitiesArchitecture & DesignDefine end-to-end solution architecture for manufacturing analytics applications (OEE, downtime, throughput, daily production, and inventory).Design data models and integration patterns for ingesting data from shop-floor systems (PLC/SCADA/MES/Historians), ERP, and other manufacturing systems.Select and design usage of Azure services for data ingestion, processing, storage, APIs, and front-end delivery.Ensure solutions are scalable, secure, resilient, and aligned with enterprise architecture and IT standards.Full Stack DevelopmentIndependently implement backend services, APIs, and microservices using Python (e.g., FastAPI, Flask, Django).Develop modern web front-ends (e.g., React, Angular, or Vue) for dashboards, operator views, production reports, and configuration tools.Implement OEE calculations, KPI logic, and business rules for production and inventory.Build data pipelines to capture, clean, and transform time-series and transactional data from manufacturing systems.DevOps, CI/CD & QualityDesign and maintain CI/CD pipelines (e.g., Azure DevOps, GitHub Actions) for build, test, and deployment of applications and infrastructure.Write and maintain unit, integration, and regression tests to ensure code quality and reliability.Implement Infrastructure-as-Code (e.g., ARM/Bicep/Terraform) for repeatable, auditable deployments.Monitor application performance, reliability, and cost, and drive continuous improvement.Azure Cloud EngineeringEvaluate, configure, and utilize Azure components such as: Azure App Service, AKS or Azure FunctionsAzure SQL Database, Azure PostgreSQL, Cosmos DBAzure Storage, Data LakeEvent Hub, IoT Hub, Service BusAzure Data Factory / Synapse pipelinesAzure Monitor / Application Insights / Log AnalyticsContinuously explore new Azure capabilities and recommend improvements to the existing architecture.Stakeholder Engagement & DeliveryWork directly with plant and business users to gather requirements, understand pain points, and translate them into technical designs.Lead design and code walkthroughs with IT and business stakeholders.Coordinate UAT, rollout, and training for new features and applications.Provide third-line support, troubleshoot complex production issues, and implement sustainable fixes.Governance, Security & ComplianceEnsure solutions follow cybersecurity, networking, and data privacy guidelines.Apply role-based access control (RBAC) and secure secret management (e.g., Azure Key Vault).Document architecture, data flows, APIs, and operational procedures for IT and business teams.Required QualificationsBachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Systems, or related field; or equivalent experience.10+ years of professional software development experience, including: Significant hands-on Python development (APIs, services, data processing).Full stack experience (front-end + back-end + database).3+ years designing and delivering solutions on Microsoft Azure.Strong experience with: RESTful API design and implementation.Relational databases (SQL) and data modeling.Source control (Git) and modern branching strategies.CI/CD pipelines and automated testing frameworks (pytest, unittest, etc.).Proven ability to independently deliver end-to-end features: design, code, test, deploy, and support.Experience working directly with business stakeholders (preferably in manufacturing/operations).Preferred QualificationsExperience in manufacturing, process industries, or industrial automation environments.Familiarity with OEE, TPM, lean manufacturing concepts, and production KPIs.Experience integrating with MES, historians, SCADA, PLCs, or ERP (e.g., SAP) systems.Knowledge of event-driven and microservices architectures.Experience with: Containerization (Docker) and orchestration (AKS/Kubernetes).Message queues and streaming platforms (Event Hubs, Kafka, Service Bus).Time-series databases or BI tools (Power BI, Grafana).Azure certifications (e.g., AZ-204, AZ-305, AZ-400) or equivalent experience.Key Competencies & Soft SkillsStrong problem-solving and analytical skills; able to break complex problems into practical solutions.Ability to operate autonomously and take end-to-end ownership of solutions.Clear, concise communication with both technical and non-technical audiences.Strong collaboration skills; comfortable working with cross-functional teams across plants and corporate functions.Continuous learning mindset; actively explores new Azure and Python capabilities and best practices.Structured documentation and attention to detail.