Job Title: Azure Middleware EngineerChicag, IL - Onsite Experience 5-9 yrs.FTE- Direct Hire Job Summary:We are seeking a skilled and experienced Azure Middleware Engineer to join our IT team. As an Azure Middleware Engineer, you will play a crucial role in designing, implementing, and maintaining middleware solutions on the Azure platform. The ideal candidate should have a deep understanding of Azure services, middleware technologies, and integration patterns. If you are passionate about creating scalable and efficient middleware solutions, this role is for you. Key Skills Java Python API Design Containers/Kubernetes Azure Cloud Services Terraform GitHub/ActionsKey Responsibilities: Middleware Design and Architecture: Design and architect middleware solutions on the Azure platform to support the integration needs of various applications and systems.Develop and implement middleware strategies that align with organizational goals and scalability requirements.Azure Integration Services: Utilize Azure Integration Services, such as Logic Apps, Azure Service Bus, Azure Functions, and Azure API Management, to create seamless and reliable integrations between applications and systems.Message Broker Configuration: Configure and manage message brokers to facilitate communication and data exchange between distributed applications.Implement publish-subscribe and point-to-point messaging patterns as needed.API Management: Design and implement APIs using Azure API Management, ensuring security, scalability, and adherence to best practices.Manage the lifecycle of APIs, including versioning, deprecation, and retirement.Middleware Development: Develop custom middleware components and connectors to meet specific integration requirements.Write clean and efficient code, following best practices and coding standards.Monitoring and Optimization: Implement monitoring solutions to track the performance and health of middleware components.Identify bottlenecks and optimize middleware configurations for improved efficiency.Security and Compliance: Implement security measures to protect data during middleware transactions.Ensure middleware solutions comply with relevant industry regulations and security standards.Collaboration and Documentation: Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including developers, system architects, and business analysts, to understand integration needs.Document middleware solutions, configurations, and processes for knowledge sharing and future reference.Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.Proven experience as a Middleware Engineer, with a focus on Azure (link removed)-depth knowledge of Azure Integration Services and related middleware technologies.Proficiency in programming languages commonly used in middleware development (e.g., C#, JavaStrong understanding of messaging protocols and integration patterns.Experience with API design, development, and management using Azure API Management.Familiarity with security principles and best practices in middleware solutions.Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.Ability to work in a collaborative team environment.Preferred Skills: Azure certification(s) related to integration or middleware.Experience with hybrid cloud and on-premises integration scenarios.Knowledge of containerization and orchestration tools (e.g., Docker, KubernetesFamiliarity with DevOps practices and tools.Previous experience with continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipelines.