SMX

Cleared Senior Data Engineer (5622)

SMX$110K — $180K *
Information Technology
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Data Engineering, Information Systems, or related field; or equivalent experience.
  • 6+ years of data engineering or backend software engineering experience, with senior technical ownership of data pipelines.
  • Security clearance required (Secret or higher).
  • Strong proficiency in SQL and Python (Java a plus).
  • Hands-on experience building and operating ELT/ETL pipelines across cloud and/or on-prem environments.
  • Familiarity with cloud data platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and data warehouses (Snowflake, Redshift, Databricks).
  • Experience with distributed data processing and workflow orchestration (e.g., Spark, Airflow).

Responsibilities

  • Design, build, test, and maintain scalable data pipelines (ELT/ETL).
  • Build infrastructure for reliable data extraction, transformation, and loading.
  • Implement data quality checks, validation, and lineage tracking.
  • Model and structure data for API delivery and domain-driven data products.
  • Automate ingestion and transformation processes to improve scalability and reduce costs.
  • Troubleshoot pipeline issues and ensure the reliability of production data systems.
  • Provide mentorship to junior engineers and contribute to best engineering practices.

Benefits

  • Health insurance coverage.
  • Paid leave.
  • Retirement plan options.
  • Competitive compensation package.
  • Opportunities for learning and development.
Full Job Description
SMX is hiring a Senior Data Engineer responsible for designing, building, and maintaining scalable data pipelines and infrastructure that power AI, analytics, and reporting across the enterprise. Working closely with architects, analysts, and AI engineers, the Senior Data Engineer transforms raw, fragmented data from many source systems into high-quality, governed, and accessible data products. This is a hands-on, senior individual-contributor role responsible for building data systems from the ground up, optimizing them for reliability and performance, and mentoring less-experienced engineers along the way.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Design, build, test, and maintain scalable data pipelines (ELT/ETL) that ingest, transform, and deliver data across cloud and on-prem systems.
  • Build the infrastructure for reliable extraction, transformation, and loading of data from a wide variety of structured and unstructured sources.
  • Implement data quality checks, validation, lineage tracking, and metadata management to ensure integrity and trust across storage and processing layers.
  • Model and structure data to support API delivery, domain-driven data products, and downstream analytics and AI/ML consumption.
  • Automate ingestion and transformation processes, and identify and implement improvements that increase scalability and reduce cost.
  • Troubleshoot pipeline issues, tune for performance and cost, and ensure the reliability of production data systems.
  • Partner with analysts, architects, and mission teams to understand requirements and deliver production-ready datasets.
  • Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers, and contribute to engineering standards and best practices.

Required Skills & Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Data Engineering, Information Systems, or a related field; equivalent experience considered.
  • 6+ years of progressive experience in data engineering or backend software engineering, including senior technical ownership of data pipelines or platforms.
  • Security clearance required (Secret or higher).
  • Strong proficiency in SQL and Python (Java a plus).
  • Hands-on experience building and operating ELT/ETL pipelines across cloud and/or on-prem environments.
  • Experience with cloud data platforms and warehouses (e.g., AWS, Azure, or GCP; Snowflake, Redshift, Databricks, or similar).
  • Experience with distributed data processing and workflow orchestration (e.g., Spark, Airflow, or similar).
  • Solid understanding of data modeling, schema design, and cloud-based storage patterns. Experience integrating structured and unstructured data from multiple source systems.

Desired Skills & Experience
  • Experience with data governance, access controls, metadata management, or sensitive-data protection.
  • Experience implementing data quality frameworks, validation, and lineage.
  • Exposure to DevOps/CI-CD patterns for data workflows.
  • Experience preparing data for AI/ML pipelines or analytical consumption.
  • Familiarity with API-based data delivery or integration platforms (e.g., MuleSoft).
  • Experience with real-time streaming and event-driven architectures.
  • Experience in a regulated or federal environment.


The SMX salary determination process takes into account a number of factors, including but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories, relevant prior work experience, specific skills, education and certifications. At SMX, one of our Core Values is to Invest in Our People so we offer a competitive mix of compensation, learning & development opportunities, and benefits. Some key components of our robust benefits include health insurance, paid leave, and retirement.

The proposed salary for this position is:

$110,000-$180,000 USD

About SMX

SMX is a company that concentrates on C5ISR, advanced engineering, and computing and also provides services, including cyber security and data analytics. Their previous search terms included Trident Technologies, Smartronix, Datastrong, and C2S Consulting Company, and their tradition of offering new technological solutions.

SMX Careers

Joining SMX presents a prime opportunity to be part of a diverse team of professionals, dedicated to pioneering innovations in the industry. SMX, a leader in technology and consulting, offers a variety of job opportunities that cater to ambitious individuals looking to make a significant impact in their professional journey.

Explore Career Opportunities

SMX is actively hiring and offers a range of positions that suit different skills and career aspirations. From entry-level roles to leadership positions, SMX is committed to fostering growth and excellence in every team member.

Internship Programs

SMX's internship programs provide invaluable industry experience, mentoring, and the opportunity to develop professional skills in a real-world setting. Internships are a stepping stone to full-time employment at SMX, offering a robust foundation in technology and business practices.

Professional Growth and Development

SMX is dedicated to the professional growth of its employees. With comprehensive training programs, including leadership development and diversity training, SMX ensures that every team member has the resources to thrive. Employees are encouraged to pursue continuous learning opportunities and gain certifications that enhance their career prospects.

Benefits and Culture

SMX is known for its inclusive culture and competitive benefits package designed to support the well-being and financial security of every employee. Benefits include health care, retirement plans, and paid time off, among others. The company culture at SMX promotes innovation, teamwork, and leadership, making it an ideal environment for professional development and personal growth.

Networking and Professional Development

Employees at SMX enjoy access to a vast network of industry professionals and thought leaders. Regular networking events, seminars, and workshops are integral to the company's commitment to employee development. These opportunities facilitate career advancement and innovation within the team.

Applying for a Position

To apply for a position at SMX, candidates are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter through the SMX Careers portal. The hiring process at SMX is thorough, ensuring that both the company and its potential employees are well-matched. Candidates can expect a detailed interview process where they can showcase their skills and learn more about the job opportunities and culture at SMX.

Stay Connected with SMX Jobs

Keep up to date with the latest news, career tips, and job openings at SMX by subscribing to the SMX Careers newsletter. Tailored information about new positions, company updates, and industry insights will be directly delivered to subscribers.

Join SMX

Explore the exciting and rewarding career opportunities at SMX. With a commitment to diversity, innovation, and leadership, SMX is looking for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players. Search open positions that match your skills and interests on the SMX Jobs portal today.

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