About the Role

We are looking for a skilled Data Platform Engineer with strong expertise in the Microsoft data stack and Azure cloud services. In this role, you will design, implement, and manage scalable data solutions that support analytics, machine learning, and business intelligence workloads.

This is a nearshore, fixed-term contract starting ASAP. The interview process will include one round with e-Zest, followed by additional rounds with the client.

The ideal candidate will bring proven hands-on experience with Azure Data Factory, Synapse Analytics, Data Lake, and Databricks, coupled with a strong understanding of cloud data architecture, governance, and security best practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Data Platform Engineering

  • Design, implement, and manage end-to-end data solutions using Microsoft Azure services (SQL Server, Azure SQL Database, Azure Data Lake, Azure Synapse Analytics, Microsoft Fabric).

• Data Ingestion & Integration

  • Develop and optimize data pipelines and ETL processes with tools like SSIS, Azure Data Factory, and Databricks.

  • Implement data quality checks and validation mechanisms during ingestion.

• Data Storage & Management

  • Recommend and implement appropriate storage technologies (databases, data lakes, object storage).

  • Optimize performance through strategies such as partitioning, indexing, and archiving.

• Data Processing & Analytics

  • Build scalable pipelines to transform and analyze data at scale.

  • Configure distributed computing and streaming technologies.

  • Ensure accessibility and accuracy of data for analytics and ML workloads.

• Data Security & Governance

  • Contribute to policies on data governance, security, and storage.

  • Monitor and optimize platform performance and availability.

  • Ensure robust backup and disaster recovery strategies.

• Collaboration & Stakeholder Management

  • Work closely with engineers, data scientists, and business teams to align platform solutions with requirements.

  • Explore and integrate emerging Microsoft features (e.g., Fabric) into the architecture.

  • Provide technical guidance and training to team members.

• Contribution to Team & Organization

  • Report regularly on progress against objectives.

  • Collaborate with global colleagues across data functions to share knowledge and ensure consistency.

Required Skills & Experience

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or related field.

• 5+ years of experience in data platform engineering.

• Core expertise in the Microsoft Data Stack, including Azure Data Factory, Azure Synapse Analytics, Azure Data Lake, and Azure SQL Database.

• Strong knowledge of Azure cloud architecture and networking principles.

• Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines for data workflows (Azure DevOps preferred).

• Proficiency in Python, PowerShell, or similar scripting languages.

• Strong knowledge of data ingestion, storage, processing, and analytics.

• Experience with ETL tools like SSIS and Azure Data Factory.

• Proficiency in database design, data warehousing, and data integration concepts.

• Familiarity with data governance and data privacy regulations (GDPR, CCPA).

• Strong presentation, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Preferred Experience & Skills

• Experience with big data technologies (Hadoop, Spark, distributed storage).

• Familiarity with Azure Databricks and advanced Microsoft data services.

• Exposure to international humanitarian or development organizations.

• Experience applying AI/ML techniques (e.g., NLP, advanced analytics).

• Proven people management, training, and knowledge transfer skills.

• Strategic and conceptual thinking with the ability to embrace change and ambiguity.

Certifications (Preferred)

• Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Engineer Associate.

• Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert.