[Remote] Lead Software Engineer - Kafka (Remote)

Note: The job is a remote job and is open to candidates in USA. First Citizens Bank is seeking a Lead Software Engineer with experience in Kafka-based event-driven integrations for their Enterprise Architecture team. This role focuses on designing and implementing scalable enterprise integration solutions aligned with business objectives.

Responsibilities

• Design, configure and maintain Confluent Kafka clusters in a multi data center and cloud environment
• Implement authorization, authentication and schema governance
• Build real-time data pipelines using Kafka Connect, Kafka Streams and KSQL/FLinkSQL
• Monitor system metrics and address any performance issues to ensure high availability
• Maintains a strong knowledge of technology trends and impact on the Bank's infrastructure to provide relevant consultative guidance
• Trains and mentors’ others on new technologies
• Provides technical advice and direction to associates, management, and developmental project teams
• Utilizes knowledge to consult and develop software to solve complex technical problems
• Advises on strategies that align developmental projects with long-term business needs and technological direction
• Assists management in implementing initiatives or strategies across the division

Skills

• Bachelor's Degree and 6 years of experience in Software application development and maintenance
• OR
• High School Diploma or GED and 10 years of experience in Software application development and maintenance
• Previous experience in designing, configuring and maintaining Confluent Kafka clusters in a multi-data center and cloud environment
• Hands-on experience in establishing and enforcing best practices for, Kafka topic design, schema evolution, and DevOps automation
• Experience in Kafka Connect, Kafka Streams, and Schema Registry
• Proficient in Java, Python, or Go
• Experience integrating with legacy systems and modernizing monolithic applications
• Hands-on experience with cloud native architecture
• Manage technical risks, dependencies, and escalations, ensuring proactive communication and resolution
• Experience with DevOps tools, CI/CD pipelines, and container orchestration (Docker, Kubernetes, Openshift)

Company Overview

First Citizens Bank provides banking services, essential business and professional services, wealth management capabilities, and more. It was founded in 1898, and is headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina, USA, with a workforce of 10001+ employees. Its website is http://www.firstcitizens.com.

Company H1B Sponsorship

First Citizens Bank has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships, with 199 in 2026, 126 in 2025, 115 in 2024, 249 in 2023, 53 in 2022, 12 in 2021, 9 in 2020. Please note that this does not guarantee sponsorship for this specific role.