IBM DataPower & API Connect Administrator

Position Overview

We are seeking a seasoned IBM DataPower & IBM API Connect (APIC) Administrator to join our dynamic team based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (KSA). The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in managing and optimizing our enterprise API gateway and security platforms, ensuring seamless integration, robust security, and high-performance operations across Production and UAT environments. This position requires a professional with extensive hands-on experience in administering IBM DataPower Gateway, IBM API Connect, and API security solutions, along with expertise in OpenShift deployments and containerized environments.

Key Responsibilities

The IBM DataPower & IBM API Connect Administrator will be responsible for the following core functions:

• Environment Management: Administer and support IBM DataPower Gateway and IBM API Connect (APIC) environments, ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and high availability in both Production and UAT settings.
• API Deployment & Configuration: Deploy, configure, monitor, and troubleshoot APIs and gateway services to meet organizational and technical requirements.
• Migration & Modernization: Lead the migration of APIs and services from traditional Virtual Machine (VM)-based environments to modern OpenShift containerized deployments, ensuring minimal disruption and maximum efficiency.
• Security & Access Management: Configure and manage API lifecycle, security policies, SSL certificates, gateway services, and access controls to safeguard critical data and systems.
• Collaboration & Support: Work closely with development, infrastructure, and DevOps teams to facilitate smooth deployments, release activities, and incident resolution.
• System Monitoring & Optimization: Proactively monitor system health, perform performance tuning, and resolve production incidents to maintain operational excellence.
• Documentation & Compliance: Maintain comprehensive operational documentation and ensure adherence to ITIL best practices for service management and governance.

Requirements

To excel in this role, candidates must meet the following qualifications:

• Technical Expertise: Minimum of 5+ years of hands-on experience administering IBM DataPower Gateway and IBM API Connect (APIC) in enterprise environments.
• API Security Proficiency: Mandatory experience with Akamai Noname API Security. Candidates with equivalent experience in platforms such as Salt Security, Traceable AI, or Imperva API Security will also be considered.
• OpenShift & Containerization: Strong hands-on experience with OpenShift and containerized deployments, including API and service migration from VM-based environments to OpenShift.
• API & Security Fundamentals: Deep understanding of REST APIs, API security frameworks, OAuth, JWT, TLS, and SSL certificates.
• Linux & Networking: Solid knowledge of Linux administration and networking concepts to support API gateway and security operations.
• Troubleshooting & Problem-Solving: Exceptional analytical and troubleshooting skills to diagnose and resolve complex technical issues efficiently.
• Collaboration & Communication: Ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams and communicate technical concepts clearly to stakeholders at all levels.

Preferred Qualifications

While not mandatory, the following qualifications will enhance your candidacy:

• Industry Experience: Prior experience working on projects within the banking or financial services sector.
• Enterprise API Management: Familiarity with enterprise API management platforms and best practices.
• DevOps & CI/CD: Experience with CI/CD pipelines, DevOps practices, and containerized environments to streamline API development and deployment.
• Certifications: Relevant IBM certifications or cloud-related credentials will be considered a significant advantage.

Position Details

Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (KSA)
Experience Level: Mid-Senior level
Employment Type: Full-time
Industry: IT Services and IT Consulting