Java Application Architect (Payments & GCP) - 12-month contract

Senior Java Application Architect (Payments & GCP)Design the payment infrastructure that connects Africa.This is a rare opportunity to architect a high-throughput payment gateway from the ground up. We are looking for a hands-on technical leader to define the vision for a platform that will process real-time transactions across the continent and beyond.You won't just be maintaining a legacy system. You will own the end-to-end architecture on Google Cloud Platform, building a solution that integrates mobile money, banking APIs, and international settlements.This is a 12-month contract engagement.What You Gain From This RoleTotal Architectural Ownership: You define the roadmap. From the API gateway to the data store, you decide how to build a system that creates reliable, idempotent records for every transaction.Scale and Complexity: You will tackle high-stakes engineering challenges, designing for low latency, high availability, and multi-region expansion (ZA/EU/UK).Modern Engineering: Work with a cutting-edge stack including Java 17+, Spring Boot, and GCP Serverless architecture, keeping your skills at the forefront of the industry.Remote Freedom: delivering world-class work from anywhere.Your Core MissionArchitect the Solution: Design the domain models, transaction flows, and event-driven services required for a PCI-aligned payment gateway.Lead the Build: Stay hands-on with the code. You will set the standards, perform deep code reviews, and lead the Java implementation.Connect the Ecosystem: Design robust integrations with Mobile Network Operators (like M-Pesa and Tigo) and banking partners using ISO8583 and REST standards.Embed Security: Ensure the platform is secure by design, implementing PCI DSS controls, tokenization, and strict secrets management.What You Need To BringDeep Payments Expertise: 8-10+ years in Java engineering, with at least 3-5 years specifically as an Architect in payments, fintech, or transactional systems.The Track Record: You must have built or significantly evolved a payment gateway, switch, or digital wallet previously.Cloud Authority: Production experience on Google Cloud Platform (GCP) is essential.Mobile Money Knowledge: Familiarity with wallet ecosystems (settlements, float, KYC) is strongly preferred.The Stack: Deep proficiency in Java 17+, Spring Boot, and Containerization (Docker/Kubernetes).The DetailsLocation: Remote.Contract: Contract position.Ready to lead the future of payments? Apply now to start the conversation.