Senior IT Big Data Engineer

Overview

The Senior IT Big Data Developer supports the Data Architecture, Technology, and Analytics (DATA) function, enabling advanced data capabilities across enterprise environments. This role is responsible for designing, building, and optimizing scalable data architectures and pipelines that support large-scale analytics, reporting, and mission-critical research initiatives.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on data engineer and architect with strong experience in data modeling, pipeline development, and data system optimization. This individual will work closely with technical teams and business stakeholders to ensure reliable, high-performance data delivery that supports complex analytical and operational needs.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain scalable data architectures, data pipelines, and data processing frameworks.
• Expand and optimize data flow, collection, and integration processes across multiple systems and environments.
• Build and manage ETL/ELT pipelines to ingest, transform, and deliver structured and unstructured data.
• Develop and maintain databases, data lakes, and enterprise data platforms supporting high-volume workloads.
• Perform data modeling, schema design, and database optimization to improve system performance and scalability.
• Collaborate with analysts, economists, and technical teams to support data-driven research and decision-making.
• Ensure data quality, integrity, and accessibility across enterprise systems.
• Analyze existing data systems and implement improvements, enhancements, or re-architecture as needed.
• Support cloud and on-premises data environments, including data migration and pipeline modernization efforts.
• Provide technical guidance and support to stakeholders on data architecture and best practices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or related field with 7+ years of relevant experience (advanced degree preferred).
• Strong experience with:
  • Data architecture and data modeling
  • Database design and administration
  • Building and optimizing data pipelines and workflows
  • Processing large-scale, high-volume datasets
• Proficiency in SQL and at least one programming/scripting language (e.g., Python, R).
• Experience with ETL/ELT development and data integration frameworks.
• Experience with distributed data systems, scalable storage solutions, and high-performance data processing.
• Familiarity with workflow orchestration tools (e.g., Apache Airflow or similar).
• Experience working in Linux environments and using version control systems (e.g., Git).

Preferred

• Experience designing enterprise data platforms, data lakes, or cloud-based data solutions.
• Experience supporting analytics, research, or policy-driven environments.
• Familiarity with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or similar).
• Strong understanding of data governance, security, and data lifecycle management.
• Ability to communicate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Key Attributes

• Self-directed with a strong service-oriented mindset.
• Detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple priorities and stakeholders.
• Passion for improving and modernizing data systems and architectures.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Salary: $166,000 - 174,500

Additional benefits include: 

• Paid Time Off & Holiday Pay
• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Disability, Life Insurance, and AD&D
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Pre-Tax 401K and/or After-Tax Roth IRA (with employer matching contribution)
• Tuition and Technical Training Reimbursement
• Exercise Reimbursement
• Computer Reimbursement
• Employee Assistance Program

Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be regularly required to stand, sit, talk, hear, reach, stoop, kneel, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer, telephone, keyboard, and standard office equipment
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision requirements due to computer work
• The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 15 pounds
• Fine hand manipulation (keyboarding)

Work Environment:  The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Exposure to general office conditions while conducting office duties
• Moderate noise (i.e., business office with computers, phone, and printers, light traffic)
• Ability to work in a confined area
• Ability to sit at a computer terminal for an extended period

Working at Edgewater Federal Solutions:

Edgewater Federal Solutions is a privately held government contracting firm located in Frederick, MD. The company was founded in 2002 with the vision of being highly recognized and admired for supporting customer missions through employee empowerment, exceptional services, and timely delivery. Edgewater Federal Solutions is ISO 9001, 20000-1, 270001 certified, appraised at CMMI Level 3 Maturity for Development and Services, and has been named in the Top Workplaces in the Greater Washington Area Small Companies since 2018.

Edgewater Federal Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It has been and continues to be our policy to provide equal employment to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status and/or other status protected by applicable law.