Data Engineer III

Preferred Travel Group; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Preferred Travel Group is seeking a Data Engineer III in Chicago to design, build, and optimize scalable data pipelines powering business operations. The role emphasizes collaboration with stakeholders and engineering teams to deliver reliable data solutions.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in data engineering, strong SQL, Python, and ETL skills, and experience with Azure Data Factory and Microsoft Fabric. Hybrid in-office schedule with remote flexibility supports team-driven innovation.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in data engineering or related field.
• Bachelor's degree in CS/IS or equivalent.
• Strong SQL development and query optimization.
• Experience with Python and modern ETL/orchestration tools.
• Experience with Microsoft Azure, Microsoft Fabric, or similar cloud data platforms.
• Experience using Git and collaborative software development practices.
• Strong understanding of data modeling and ETL concepts.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to independently manage complex technical work while collaborating across teams.

Responsibilities

• Design, build, and maintain scalable data pipelines and ETL workflows.
• Develop and optimize advanced SQL, Python, and Spark solutions for data processing.
• Build and support integrations using Azure Data Factory, Microsoft Fabric, and REST/SOAP APIs.
• Monitor, troubleshoot, and improve the reliability and performance of production data processes.
• Collaborate with business stakeholders to gather requirements and deliver data solutions.
• Participate in code reviews and maintain technical documentation.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to engineering best practices.

Skills

SQL development

Python

Data modeling

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/IS or equivalent

Tools

Azure Data Factory

Microsoft Fabric

REST APIs

dbt

Git

Spark

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Full-time Regular Chicago, IL, US

9 days ago Requisition ID: 1558

Who we are:

At Preferred Travel Group, we champion the power of travel to inspire meaningful connections and enrich lives around the world. As a global family of brands and programs representing the finest independent hotels and resorts, we are united by a shared belief in authenticity, collaboration, and the value of independent spirit. Our culture reflects our ideology in action: people first, relationships at the center, and a commitment to creating lasting impact for our partners, our global community, and one another. When you join Preferred, you become part of a purpose-driven organization where ideas are welcomed, growth is encouraged, and your work contributes to shaping the future of travel.

Why this role matters:

We are seeking a highly organized, proactive, and technically skilled Data Engineer III to design, build, and optimize scalable data solutions that power business operations across Preferred Travel Group. This role develops and supports modern data pipelines, integrations, and reporting capabilities while partnering closely with business stakeholders and engineering teams to deliver reliable, high-quality data.

Success in this role comes from independently delivering well-designed solutions, continuously improving data processes, collaborating effectively across teams, and identifying opportunities to increase the reliability, performance, and value of our data platform.

What you’ll deliver:

• Design, build, and maintain scalable data pipelines and ETL workflows.
• Develop and optimize advanced SQL, Python, and Spark solutions for data processing.
• Build and support integrations using Azure Data Factory, Microsoft Fabric, and REST/SOAP APIs.
• Monitor, troubleshoot, and improve the reliability and performance of production data processes.
• Collaborate with business stakeholders to gather requirements and deliver data solutions.
• Participate in code reviews and maintain technical documentation.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to engineering best practices.

What Would Make You Stand Out:

• Experience with dbt.
• Experience with Azure Data Factory and Microsoft Fabric.
• Demonstrated technical leadership and a history of helping engineering teams successfully deliver complex initiatives.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to clearly explain project status, risks, and technical tradeoffs to stakeholders.
• A passion for improving engineering practices, helping mature team processes, and raising the overall effectiveness of the team.

What you’ll bring to the team:

• 5+ years of experience in data engineering or a related field.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or equivalent experience.
• Strong SQL development and query optimization experience.
• Experience with Python and modern ETL/orchestration tools.
• Experience with Microsoft Azure, Microsoft Fabric, or similar cloud data platforms.
• Experience using Git and collaborative software development practices.
• Strong understanding of data modeling and ETL concepts.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to independently manage complex technical work while collaborating across teams.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and knowledge sharing.

Where you’ll thrive:

• You enjoy bringing structure to complex data challenges, following projects through from design to delivery with a strong focus on accuracy, quality, and reliability.
• You are highly detail-oriented and thrive in environments where thoughtful analysis, technical expertise, and well-informed decision-making are valued.
• You work comfortably within established frameworks and best practices while taking ownership of solutions and continuously improving processes and performance.
• You communicate clearly and professionally, collaborate effectively across teams, and lead by example through strong follow-through, accountability, and technical excellence.

Our Working Culture:

With our in-office philosophy, our associates are expected to be in the office at least three days per week, supporting a healthy balance between in-person collaboration and flexible remote work. We take pride in our vibrant and inclusive culture, which thrives on meaningful connection, shared purpose, and cross-functional teamwork. In-office engagement plays a vital role in fostering spontaneous collaboration, accelerating innovation, and strengthening relationships across teams. It also provides valuable opportunities for mentorship, professional development, and a deeper sense of community.

Please note: While the current expectation is a minimum of three days per week in the office, this may evolve over time in alignment with business needs and our continued commitment to culture-building

Disclaimer: This description reflects the general nature and level of the role. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities or requirements.

$120,000 - $150,000, actual compensation within this range will be determined by multiple factors including candidate experience and expertise.