Data Engineer

West 4th Strategy; Virginia (MN); On-site; USD 155,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

West 4th Strategy is hiring a Data Engineer to support the National Guard Bureau's Minuteman project team in Arlington, VA. You will design and maintain end-to-end data pipelines using Databricks, Python, Spark, Scala, JavaScript/JSON, and SQL, collaborating with data scientists and analysts to deliver reliable data solutions.

The role requires 3–10 years of related experience, on-site presence, and an active security clearance.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3–10 years of directly related experience.
• Onsite work in Arlington, VA 1–2 days per week.
• Proficient in ETL with Databricks, Python, Spark, Scala, JavaScript/JSON, SQL and Jupyter Notebooks.
• Experience with large datasets, data modeling, governance and visualization.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement end-to-end data pipelines using ETL technologies.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define data requirements and models.
• Create scalable, high-performance data pipelines and data quality checks.
• Apply data governance policies and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Maintain and optimize databases and data infrastructures for mission needs.
• Support data scientists and analysts with timely, accurate data insights.

Skills

ETL processes

Big data experience

Data governance

Data modeling

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

B.A./B.S. or M.A./M.S. in a related field

Tools

Databricks

Python

Spark

Scala

JavaScript/JSON

SQL

Jupyter Notebooks

Job description

Data Engineer
We need an experienced Data Engineer at the National Guard Bureau (NGB). The NGB is the link between the Army and Air National Guard and the Department of War (DoW). You will support operations on the Minuteman project team, which manages the NGB’s enterprise data environment within the DoW’s central analytics platform, and plays a crucial role in designing, developing, and maintaining the Minuteman Community Space’s data infrastructure and systems. In this role, you will design and implement end-to-end data pipelines using ETL processes and technologies including Databricks, Python, Spark, Scala, JavaScript/JSON, and SQL, working closely with cross-functional teams to understand data requirements and design optimal data models and architectures that ensure efficient data processing and analysis. This is a full-time opportunity. We can offer a competitive salary, and a comprehensive benefits package.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Design, develop, and implement end-to-end data pipelines, utilizing ETL processes and technologies such as Databricks, Python, Spark, Scala, JavaScript/JSON, and SQL
• Work closely with cross-functional teams to understand data requirements and design optimal data models and architectures
• Create and optimize data pipelines from scratch, ensuring scalability, reliability, and high-performance processing
• Perform data cleansing, data integration, and data quality assurance activities to maintain the accuracy and integrity of large datasets
• Leverage big data technologies to efficiently process and analyze large datasets
• Collaborate with data scientists, analysts, and stakeholders to provide timely and accurate data insights and support decision-making processes
• Troubleshoot data-related problems and provide innovative solutions to address complex data challenges
• Implement and enforce data governance policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and industry best practices
• Research, design, and develop software and specialized utility programs in support of mission requirements
• Analyze user needs and develop software solutions, applying principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis
• Update and enhance existing software capabilities
• Develop specifications and performance requirements, coordinating with engineering counterparts to integrate hardware and software systems as required
• Maintain databases within the application area, working individually or coordinating database development as part of a team

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Three (3) to ten (10) years of directly related experience
• Available to work onsite in Arlington, VA 1-2 days per week
• 3+ years of experience as a Data Engineer
• Proficiency in ETL processes and firsthand experience with technologies such as Databricks, Python, Spark, Scala, JavaScript/JSON, SQL, and Jupyter Notebooks
• Experience working with large datasets and leveraging big data technologies to process and analyze data efficiently
• Understanding of data modeling/visualization, database design principles, and data governance practices

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with the Department of War (DoW) mission and associated datasets
• Previous experience with Advana or the War Data Platform
• Experience with APIs
• Experience with Machine Learning models and/or Generative AI
• Experience building within Palantir Foundry applications, including Workshop, Ontology Manager, and Gaia

EDUCATION

• B.A./B.S. or M.A./M.S. in a related field

LOCATION

• National Capital Region. Onsite in Arlington, VA 1-2 days per week – Required

CLEARANCE

• Active Secret security clearance
• U.S. citizenship is required since this role supports the U.S. Federal government

CLIENT

• OUSD Personnel & Readiness (P&R), Minuteman project team

WORK HOURS

• 40 hours per week. 8 hours per day

EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION

• Employment Classification Eligibility — W2

COMPENSATION

• Salary range:$155,000 - $165,000
• Benefits: Benefits package includes options for health, dental, and vision insurance coverage; 401k contribution options
  West 4th Strategy is an Equal Opportunity (EEO) employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, gender, sexual orientation, ancestry, national origin, age, marital status, mental disability, physical disability, medical condition, pregnancy, political affiliation, military or veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by federal or state law.

Other Considerations:

applicants will be subject to a background investigation. Individual’s primary workstation is located in an office area. The noise level in this environment is low to moderate. Regularly required to sit for extended periods up to 80% of the time; frequently required to move about to access file cabinets and use office equipment such as PC, copier, fax, telephone, cell phone, etc. Occasionally required to reach overhead, bend, and lift objects of up to 10 lbs. Specific vision abilities required by this job include the use of computer monitor screens up to 80% of the time.