Kong is The AI Connectivity Company. Our platform sits at the centre of how enterprises manage APIs, AI agents, and the infrastructure connecting them and we’re scaling fast. The ADR role is the front line of that growth. The accounts you open today are the expansion stories of tomorrow.
Responsibilities
- As a Solutions Engineering - Specialist at Kong Inc., you will be a pivotal technical leader, leveraging deep expertise in combining DevOps with AiOPS and FinOps, management, sales skills and system integration to guide customers and partners through complex architectural challenges.
- You will act as a trusted advisor, demonstrating the value of Kong’s platform through tailored solutions and technical excellence.
- Lead technical discussions and presentations with enterprise clients, understanding their architectural requirements and business needs.
- Solid understanding of Kafka and APIs and software development.
- Develop and implement proof‑of‑concept projects and custom demonstrations that showcase Kong’s capabilities in System Integration, Continuous Integration and Continuous Delivery environments.
- Provide expert guidance on SRE Observability strategies, helping customers monitor and optimize their API infrastructure.
- Utilize proficiency in Linux, Docker, and Git to troubleshoot complex technical issues and provide advanced support.
- Drive the adoption of Automation Technology within customer environments, enabling efficient API lifecycle management.
- Collaborate with sales, product, and engineering teams to provide market feedback and contribute to product development.
- Mentor junior solutions engineers and contribute to the team’s technical knowledge base.
- Manage multiple projects concurrently, demonstrating strong Project Management skills and delivering results within deadlines.
- Effectively communicate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences through exceptional Technical Communication.
Benefits
- Flexible time off: Take time to take care of yourself and the things that matter most.
- Stock options: We want you to share in our success. That’s why stock options are offered to most Kongers.
- U‑First Fridays: Get 4 hours a month for continuous learning with a book, podcast, or course of your choice.
- Virtual events: Stay connected with Donut chats, trivia, fitness challenges, guided meditations, and more.
- Home office stipend: Build a home office environment tailored to support your productivity.
- Dedicated unplug days: Silence those notifications. Enjoy some well‑deserved long weekend where the entire team unplugs.
Qualifications
- Proficiency with Linux operating systems and containerization technologies like Docker.
- Strong understanding of Authentication mechanisms (OAuth, OIDC, JWT, etc.) and Cybersecurity best practices.
- Deep knowledge of Continuous Integration and Continuous Delivery (CI/CD) pipelines and tools.
- Demonstrated expertise in API Design and API Management principles and best practices.
- Experience with Automation Technology and scripting for infrastructure and application deployment.
- Strong understanding of the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) and its various phases.
- Solid AIOps experience and/or Solid Kafka experience.
- Extensive experience with Git for version control and collaborative software development.
- Exceptional Technical Communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field, or equivalent practical experience.
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and prioritize tasks effectively.
- 5+ years of experience in a solutions engineering, technical architect, or similar customer‑facing technical role.
- Proven experience with SRE Observability tools and methodologies.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land EMEA Solutions Engineering Specialist
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Kong, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Kong specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kong
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Kong, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Kong value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
