Lead Engineer - Data

Zs Associates; Toronto; Hybrid; CAD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A management consulting firm based in Toronto is seeking a Data Engineering Lead responsible for designing and optimizing scalable data architectures. The role involves collaboration with cross-functional teams to translate requirements into effective data solutions. Ideal candidates should have a Bachelor's or Master's degree in a technical field, 5+ years of experience in data engineering, and proficiency in SQL and Python. The firm offers a hybrid working model and a comprehensive benefits package.

Benefits

Comprehensive health and well-being package

Financial planning support

Annual leave

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in data engineering with a proven track record.
• Experience in leading small teams of Data Engineers.
• Fluent in English with strong communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee design and implementation of scalable data systems.
• Collaborate with teams to translate data requirements.
• Design and optimize ETL pipelines.

Skills

SQL

Python

Data warehousing concepts

Cloud-based platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP)

ETL processes

Big data technologies (Hadoop, Spark, Kafka)

Problem-solving

Critical thinking

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, or related field

Job description

ZS is a place where passion changes lives. As a management consulting and technology firm focused on improving life and how we live it, we transform ideas into impact by bringing together data, science, technology and human ingenuity to deliver better outcomes for all. Here you’ll work side by side with a powerful collective of thinkers and experts shaping life‑changing solutions for patients, caregivers and consumers, worldwide. ZSers drive impact by bringing a client‑first mentality to each and every engagement. We partner collaboratively with our clients to develop custom solutions and technology products that create value and deliver company results across critical areas of their business. Bring your curiosity for learning, bold ideas, courage and passion to drive life‑changing impact to ZS.

LEAD ENGINEER – DATA

Overview

The Data Engineering Lead is a senior technical professional responsible for designing, building, and optimizing scalable data architectures and processes to enable efficient data utilization and data‑driven decision‑making. This role combines deep technical expertise with strong leadership skills to drive best‑in‑class data engineering solutions and mentor junior team members.

What you’ll do

Responsibilities – Data Architecture and Engineering

• Oversee the design and implementation of robust, scalable, and reliable data systems, ensuring high performance and alignment with business goals.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to understand data requirements and translate them into effective data architecture and engineering solutions.
• Develop and manage software processes that facilitate seamless data movement between data warehouses, data lakes, and other internal systems.
• Design and optimise ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) pipelines to prepare high‑quality data for various stakeholders.
• Design and build data ingestion frameworks, data quality frameworks and an integrated audit system.

Data Quality and Governance

• Implement data quality assurance processes to identify and resolve data inconsistencies and issues.
• Establish data governance practices to maintain data accuracy, integrity and security.
• Analyse data to derive meaningful insights that support data‑driven decision‑making.
• Communicate findings and recommendations to stakeholders effectively.

Technical Leadership and Mentorship

• Serve as a technical authority in data engineering, staying updated on industry trends and best practices.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior Data Engineers, fostering their professional development.
• Facilitate knowledge sharing, collaboration and continuous improvement within the team.

What you’ll bring

Education

A bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science, Data Science, or a related technical field.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in SQL, Python, or other relevant programming languages.
• Strong understanding of data warehousing concepts and cloud‑based data platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Expertise in designing and implementing ETL processes, data modelling and database management.
• Familiarity with big data technologies (e.g., Hadoop, Spark, Kafka) and data integration tools.
• Excellent problem‑solving, critical thinking and analytical skills.

Experience

• 5+ years of experience in data engineering, with a proven track record of designing and implementing scalable, high‑performance data systems.
• Significant experience in leading small teams of Data Engineers and fostering their professional growth.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate with cross‑functional teams and communicate technical solutions effectively.
• Ability to travel to other offices or client locations as needed.
• Strong communication skills
• Fluency in English
• Client‑first mentality
• Intense work ethic
• Collaborative spirit and problem‑solving approach

How you’ll grow

• Cross‑functional skills development & custom learning pathways
• Milestone training programs aligned to career progression opportunities
• Internal mobility paths that empower growth via s‑curves, individual contribution and role expansions

Hybrid working model

ZS is committed to a flexible and connected way of working. ZSers are onsite at clients or ZS offices three days a week. Combined flexibility to work remotely two days a week is also available. The magic of ZS culture and innovation thrives in both planned and spontaneous face‑to‑face connections.

Perks & Benefits

ZS offers a comprehensive total rewards package including health and well‑being, financial planning, annual leave, personal growth and professional development. Our robust skills development programs, multiple career progression options and internal mobility paths, and collaborative culture empower you to thrive as an individual and global team member.

Travel

Travel is a requirement at ZS for client‑facing ZSers; the business needs of your project and client are the priority. While some projects may be local, all client‑facing ZSers should be prepared to travel as needed. Travel provides opportunities to strengthen client relationships, gain diverse experiences, and enhance professional growth by working in different environments and cultures.

Considering applying?

At ZS, we honour the visible and invisible elements of our identities, personal experiences and belief systems—the ones that comprise us as individuals, shape who we are, and make us unique. We believe your personal interests, identities and desire to learn are integral to your success here. We are committed to building a team that reflects a broad variety of backgrounds, perspectives and experiences. If you’re eager to grow, contribute and bring your unique self to our work, we encourage you to apply.

ZS is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing equal employment and advancement opportunities without regard to any class protected by applicable law.

To complete our application

Candidates must possess or be able to obtain work authorization for their intended country of employment. An online application, including a full set of transcripts (official or unofficial), is required to be considered.

Find out more at

www.zs.com