Lead DevOps Engineer (Azure AI / GenAI Solutions)

We are seeking a Lead DevOps Engineer to support AI platforms and applications running on Azure while operating within enterprise processes, security requirements, and operational constraints. This role goes beyond traditional infrastructure-focused DevOps work, combining hands-on engagement with Azure-based services and platforms, operational ownership, and cross-team coordination. The successful candidate will work closely with the development team rather than the infrastructure team, operating with limited access to Azure resources. A significant part of the work involves ticket-driven processes, coordination with other teams, follow-ups, and ensuring tasks are completed end-to-end. The ideal candidate understands how Azure-based services work, can operate effectively in a secure and highly controlled environment, and is comfortable taking ownership of operational activities, dependencies, and delivery outcomes. Responsibilities Support DevOps activities for Azure-based AI and GenAI solutions Maintain Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS) environments Manage Azure DevOps pipelines, release processes, and deployment activities Troubleshoot Azure AI Search and AI Services (Foundry) Maintain operational workflows involving n8n and LangSmith Coordinate activities related to WAFs, firewalls, private networking, and secure connectivity Monitor, investigate, and resolve operational and deployment-related issues Track tickets, service requests, approvals, and dependencies across multiple teams Collaborate with development, QA, infrastructure, security, and platform teams to deliver changes and resolve issues Drive DevOps-related activities from initiation to completion and ensure timely follow-up on open actions Contribute to secure, reliable, and efficient operation of cloud-based solutions Requirements 5+ years of hands-on production experience with Azure, Azure DevOps, and Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS) Proficiency in Azure AI Search, AI Services (Foundry), and secure connectivity components such as WAFs, firewalls, and Private Links Hands-on production experience with n8n and LangSmith Experience working in secure enterprise environments with restricted access and governance controls Experience supporting production systems through ticket-driven operational processes Ability to coordinate activities across multiple teams and stakeholders Strong ownership mindset and ability to drive tasks to completion Strong organizational, communication, and follow-through skills Ability to work independently with minimal supervision English proficiency at B2 level or higher Nice to have Experience with Dataiku or similar data science platforms Familiarity with OpenWebUI Experience supporting R&D initiatives, proofs of concept, and rapid prototyping environments Experience with monitoring, logging, and observability tools