Data Engineering Lead - North America

Mars Food US, LLC; Guelph; On-site; CAD 100,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global food company is seeking a Data Engineering Lead in Guelph, Ontario, to oversee North America data initiatives. The role involves leading data pipeline design, ensuring data integrity, and collaborating globally. Ideal candidates should have 5-10 years of experience in data engineering, with proficiency in SQL, Python, and big data technologies. This position offers a competitive salary and benefits, along with opportunities for professional growth within a vibrant, purpose-driven organization.

Benefits

Best-in-class learning and development support

Industry competitive salary and benefits

Company bonus

Qualifications

• 5-10 years of experience in data engineering, preferably in CPG or Retail.
• Strong expertise in data pipeline development and integration.
• Experience with big data technologies and cloud data systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and optimization of data pipelines across North America.
• Ensure data integrity and high performance for business insights.
• Collaborate with global teams to align data initiatives.

Skills

Data pipeline development

Data integration

ETL processes

SQL

Python

Apache Spark

Cloud-based data systems

Collaboration with global teams

DevOps principles

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field

Master’s degree in related field

Tools

Microsoft Azure

Job description

Job Description:

Data Engineering Lead – North America

At Mars, data is at the heart of our decision-making and innovation. We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Data Engineering Lead to spearhead our North America data initiatives for Royal Canin (RC). This is an exciting opportunity to lead a talented team, collaborate globally, and drive impactful data solutions that power our business success across the US and Canada.

As the Data Engineering Lead for North America, you will play a pivotal role at the forefront of Mars’ data transformation journey. Reporting to the Head of Platform and Engineering, you will guide the design, delivery, and optimization of cutting‑edge data pipelines and platforms, ensuring data integrity, security, and high performance that empower business insights and operational excellence in the region. You will work within a vibrant, cross‑functional environment that bridges global innovation with local execution, collaborating closely with the Global Data Engineering and Platform teams, regional stakeholders, and external partners to champion a “one‑RC” approach—ensuring North America’s data engineering initiatives not only meet but shape global standards and best practices.

This role offers a unique blend of hands‑on technical leadership and strategic influence. You will inspire innovation, foster collaboration, and drive continuous improvement within your team, making a tangible impact on how Mars leverages data to unlock growth and competitive advantage. If you thrive in a fast‑paced, evolving landscape and are passionate about harnessing data to solve complex business challenges, this is the role for you.

What are we looking for?

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, or a related technical field (Master’s degree is a plus)
• Minimum 5‑10 years of experience in an applied data engineering role or equivalent, preferably within CPG, Consumer Products, Retail, Telecom, or Financial Services industries.
• Strong expertise in data pipeline development, data integration, and ETL processes
• Proficiency in SQL, Python, or other data‑focused programming languages
• Experience with big data technologies such as Apache Spark and distributed data processing
• Knowledge of data governance, compliance standards, and security protocols relevant to US and Canada
• Ability to collaborate effectively with global teams and align regional operations with global standards
• Proficiency in cloud‑based data systems, ideally Microsoft Azure, and data management tools
• Experience with DevOps principles including CI/CD, unit testing, and Agile methodologies
• Proven ability to lead and engage technical teams while balancing business and technical stakeholder needs
• Nice‑to‑have: Experience working in cross‑functional, global environments

What will be your key responsibilities?

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of data pipelines and platforms across North America
• Ensure data integrity, security, and high performance to empower business insights and operational excellence
• Collaborate closely with Global Data Engineering and Platform teams, regional stakeholders, and external partners
• Champion a “one‑RC” approach to align North America’s data engineering initiatives with global standards
• Inspire innovation, foster collaboration, and drive continuous improvement within your team
• Balance technical leadership with strategic influence to solve complex business challenges
• Monitor and guide the work of technical resources to maintain high team engagement and delivery quality

What can you expect from Mars?

• Work with diverse and talented Associates, all guided by the Five Principles
• Join a purpose‑driven company, striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today
• Best‑in‑class learning and development support from day one, including access to our in‑house Mars University
• An industry competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus