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Kafka Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Java Kafka Developer (Hybrid)

Ashburn, VA · Hybrid

$52.25 - $67.50/hr

Java Kafka Developer - Full-Time Ashburn, VA (Hybrid - 1 to 2 days onsite / 3 to 4 days remote) Must be a U.S. Citizen and currently reside in the Metro Washington, D.C. area We have an immediate ...

$52.50 - $68.25/hr

Collaborate with architects and developers to design scalable, fault-tolerant, and resilient Kafka solutions . * Contribute to system design and architecture discussions for enterprise data streaming ...

Senior Kafka Developer

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$54.25 - $71.50/hr

CGI is seeking a Senior Kafka Developer / Java ... Engineer to serve as a technical lead supporting enterprise-level event streaming, API ...

Kafka Engineers/AWS/Terraform

New York, NY · On-site

$70.75 - $93/hr

Kafka Engineers/AWS/Terraform/Java Location: 100% Remote - Duration: 1 Year+ Minimum 15 years of IT experience. Minimum of 7 years of hands-on experience within data engineering organization; • ...

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Kafka Engineer information

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$39K

$101.8K

$137.5K

How much do kafka engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for kafka engineer in the United States is $101,752.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,000.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Kafka Engineer typically collaborate with development and operations teams?

Kafka Engineers play a key role in bridging the gap between development and operations teams. They work closely with developers to design and implement event-driven architectures using Kafka, ensuring data flows reliably between services. Simultaneously, they partner with operations teams to deploy, monitor, and maintain Kafka clusters, addressing issues like scalability, fault tolerance, and security. Effective communication and a strong understanding of both software development and infrastructure are essential for success in this collaborative environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Kafka Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Kafka Engineer, you need a strong understanding of distributed systems, proficiency in Apache Kafka, and experience with programming languages like Java or Python, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as Kafka Connect, Kafka Streams, monitoring systems (e.g., Prometheus, Grafana), and relevant certifications like Confluent Certified Developer for Apache Kafka are typically required. Problem-solving skills, effective communication, and the ability to work collaboratively make someone stand out in this position. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure reliable data pipelines, seamless integration, and efficient troubleshooting in mission-critical, real-time data environments.

What does a Kafka Engineer do?

A Kafka Engineer specializes in designing, building, and maintaining distributed data streaming systems using Apache Kafka. They are responsible for configuring Kafka clusters, ensuring data reliability and scalability, and integrating Kafka with other systems. Kafka Engineers also monitor system performance, troubleshoot issues, and optimize data pipelines to support real-time data processing needs. Their work is essential for organizations that rely on high-throughput, low-latency data streaming for applications such as analytics, event sourcing, and microservices architectures.

What is the difference between Kafka Engineer vs Data Engineer?

AspectKafka EngineerData Engineer
Required CredentialsCertifications in Kafka, cloud platforms, programming languagesCertifications in data tools, cloud, SQL, programming
Work EnvironmentFocus on Kafka setup, streaming data, real-time processingBroader data pipeline, storage, and processing tasks
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, data-driven organizations using KafkaVarious industries managing large data systems
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for specialization in streaming dataBroader role encompassing multiple data technologies

The Kafka Engineer specializes in designing, implementing, and maintaining Kafka-based streaming data systems, focusing on real-time data processing. In contrast, Data Engineers work on building comprehensive data pipelines, integrating various data sources, and managing storage solutions. While Kafka Engineers focus on Kafka-specific tasks, Data Engineers handle a wider range of data tools and platforms, making their roles complementary but distinct in data infrastructure teams.

More about Kafka Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Kafka Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Kafka Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Kafka Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Kafka Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Kafka Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,752 per year, or $48.9 per hour.
Java / Python / Kafka Software Engineer

Java / Python / Kafka Software Engineer

Cymertek

Honolulu, HI • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Java / Python / Kafka Software Engineer
LOCATIONHonolulu, HI 96815
CLEARANCETS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this position requires full U.S. Citizenship)
KEY SUMMARYWe are seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented Java / Python / Kafka Software Engineer to join our team and contribute to the development of scalable, high-performance systems. In this role, you will design, implement, and optimize applications using Java and Python while leveraging Kafka for real-time data processing and event-driven architectures. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop innovative solutions, troubleshoot complex issues, and enhance system reliability. The ideal candidate has a strong technical foundation, a passion for problem-solving, and enjoys working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. Join us to help create cutting-edge software solutions that drive impactful results.

*** Please note that our job openings are dynamic and can open or close quickly (much faster than we can publish). If you do not see an opening you are looking for, know that we see almost all types of positons. We strive to keep our listings up to date, but please consider submitting your current resume. Our team will work with you to identify the most recent opportunities that align with your skillset and career goals. We look forward to you joining our family. ***


SIMILAR CAREER TITLESJava Developer, Python Developer, Kafka Engineer, Backend Software Engineer, Data Pipeline Engineer, Distributed Systems Engineer, Real-Time Systems Developer, Streaming Data Engineer, Event-Driven Architect, Full Stack Developer, etc.
DEGREE (Level Desired)Bachelor's DegreeDEGREE (Focus)Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Technology, Computer Engineering, Data Science, Information Systems, Applied Mathematics, Systems Engineering, Network Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, etc.ALTERNATE EXPERIENCEGeneral comment on degrees: Most contracts allow additional experience (4-5 years) in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree. Some contracts give 4-5 years experience credit for a Bachelor's Degree. Some contracts give 2 years experience credit for a Master's Degree. We will work with you to find the right fit.
POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Develop and maintain Java-based applications
  • Design and optimize Python scripts for data processing
  • Build and manage Kafka pipelines for real-time data streaming
  • Ensure scalability and reliability of software solutions
  • Collaborate with teams to deliver software products
  • Troubleshoot and resolve performance bottlenecks
REQUIRED SKILLS
  • Proficiency in Java programming
  • Expertise in Python scripting
  • Strong understanding of Kafka architecture
  • Knowledge of message queues and streaming platforms
  • Familiarity with RESTful APIs
  • Ability to write efficient, clean, and reusable code
DESIRED SKILLS
  • Experience with microservices architecture
  • Familiarity with containerization (e.g., Docker)
  • Understanding of cloud-based deployments
  • Knowledge of distributed systems
  • Proficiency in CI/CD pipeline development
  • Experience with data serialization formats (e.g., Avro, Protobuf)

PLUG IN to CYMERTEK - And design your future...
YOUR FOREVER CAREER STARTS HERE

Are you looking for more than just a job? Join a company where employees are treated like family, and your career is built to last. We are a growing small business and a trusted federal contractor offering full scope consulting services in information technology, cybersecurity, and analyst workforce development.

At our company, you come first. We're committed to creating an environment where you'll thrive professionally and personally. We provide meaningful, challenging work using cutting-edge technologies while investing in your growth and success. With direct access to company leadership, a laid-back and inclusive atmosphere, and exceptional work-life balance, you'll feel valued every day.

We also believe in taking care of our family - both yours and ours. Our benefits are phenomenal, family-friendly, and designed with your well-being in mind. From employee and family events to career-long support, we create a community you'll never want to leave.

Ready to make your next move the best one? Join us and experience the difference.

BENEFITS
  • Excellent Salaries
  • Flexible Work Schedule
  • Cafeteria Style Benefits
  • 10% - 401k Matching (Vested Immediately)
  • Additional 401k Profit Sharing
  • 30 days Paid Leave/Holiday (No Use or Lose!)
  • The day off for your birthday
  • Medical/Dental/Vision - 100% employee coverage.($1200 allowance - or a bonus)
  • HSA/FSA
  • AFLAC
  • Long Term/Short Term Disability - 100% employee coverage. No cost to you.
  • Life Insurance - 100% employee coverage. No cost to you.
  • Additional Discretionary Life Insurance
  • Paid Training
  • No long, wordy reviews with tons of paperwork!!!
  • Referral bonus program with recurring annual payments
HOW TO APPLY

Email us at jobs@cymertek.com or apply today: www.cymertek.com

Want to see what our employees think? Click here .


EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER STATEMENT

Cymertek is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We embrace and celebrate differences in our employees, recognizing that a diverse workforce enhances our creativity, innovation, and overall success. At Cymertek, employment decisions are made based on merit, qualifications, and business needs without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws. We believe in creating an environment where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and where opportunities for professional growth and advancement are accessible to everyone, regardless of background or identity.