SQL Data Engineer (12 Month Contract) | Centurion

The Recruitment Council; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading financial services organization is seeking a SQL Data Engineer to drive impactful data solutions. This role involves designing SQL backend solutions, creating ETL pipelines, and optimizing database performance. Ideal candidates will have extensive experience in SQL and Python, with a strong focus on collaboration and innovation in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in financial services.
• 5+ years of hands-on SQL development experience.
• 5+ years of Python experience in ETL and data engineering.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop complex SQL backend solutions.
• Create and maintain scalable ETL/ELT pipelines using SSIS and AWS Glue.
• Optimize database performance using techniques like partitioning and indexing.

Skills

SQL Server

SSIS

AWS data services

Python

GitLab

Database Administration

Education

BSc in IT or related field

Tools

Power BI

Visual Studio

Job description

Join a forward-thinking financial services organization that values collaboration, innovation, and excellence. We’re looking for a SQL Data Engineer to drive impactful data solutions in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. If you’re passionate about data architecture and backend development, this is the ideal opportunity to contribute to a purpose-driven team while advancing your technical expertise.

Key Responsibilities:

Technical Delivery:

• Design and develop complex SQL backend solutions (not front-end applications).
• Translate business requirements into technical solutions through direct client engagement.
• Create and maintain scalable ETL/ELT pipelines using SSIS and AWS Glue.
• Optimize database performance using techniques like partitioning, indexing, and stored procedures.
• Develop automated CI/CD pipelines using GitLab for efficient deployments.
• Ensure data compliance and governance in line with financial regulatory standards.

Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement:

• Build strong relationships with stakeholders to understand and meet data needs.
• Set and manage realistic expectations while delivering consistent, high-quality outputs.
• Contribute to a service-driven and feedback-rich team culture.

Teamwork & Professional Growth:

• Foster a positive and agile team environment.
• Align personal goals with team objectives.
• Take initiative in learning and development through regular feedback and performance reviews.

Technical Expertise:

• Advanced knowledge of SQL Server, SSIS, SSRS, and SQL Transact, including performance tuning.
• Experience with data warehousing, lakes, or vaults, preferably using SQL Transact and SSIS.
• Strong command of AWS data services.
• Proficient in GitLab (version control and CI/CD).
• Skilled in Python (Pandas, NumPy, PySpark, SQLAlchemy) for ETL automation and data transformation.
• Familiarity with tools like Visual Studio, Master Data Services (MDS), and Power BI.
• Solid database administration (DBA) skills with focus on indexing and performance optimization.

Financial Sector Experience:

• Minimum 5 years’ experience within financial services.
• Thorough understanding of financial data structures, compliance, and governance requirements.
• Soft Skills & Ways of Working
• Strong ability to gather and translate stakeholder requirements into actionable technical solutions.
• Collaborative, adaptable, and proactive in solving problems.
• Experienced working within Agile (Scrum/Kanban) environments, with a focus on DevOps and automation.

Qualifications:

• Relevant tertiary degree (e.g., BSc in IT or related field).
• 5+ years of hands-on SQL development experience.
• 5+ years of Python experience in ETL and data engineering.