Lead GitLab Architect / DevOps Tech Lead

Hiring: Lead GitLab Architect / DevOps Tech Lead

We are looking for a strong Lead GitLab Architect / Tech Lead to drive a large-scale technical transformation project for a major client in the German energy sector!

Location: 100% Remote — candidate must be based in the EU

Start Date: ASAP

Client: German energy sector

📌 The Role: Lead GitLab Architect & DevOps Tech Lead

In this hybrid role, you will take full ownership of the project architecture and technical execution while guiding the overall transformation strategy.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the design and implementation of a centrally operated, scalable Renovate platform to automate dependency management across 10,000+ GitLab repositories.
• Combine high-level architecture ownership with hands-on technical work in Kubernetes and CI/CD pipelines.
• Oversee software supply chain security, vulnerability management, governance, and compliance.
• Drive stakeholder management and act as the primary technical lead for the initiative.

Key Requirements:

• GitLab Expertise: Deep hands-on knowledge of GitLab CI/CD, APIs, permissions, and onboarding large numbers of repositories.
• Renovate Experience: Practical experience setting up and managing automated dependency updates at scale.
• Architecture & Infrastructure: Proven background with distributed Kubernetes environments, Infrastructure as Code (OpenTofu, Helm), and scripting (Python, Bash, or JS/TS).
• Security & Observability: Strong grasp of Vault/secrets management and monitoring tools (ideally New Relic).
• Leadership: Solid track record in technical leadership, stakeholder management, and running large-scale technical transformations.