Data Engineer

Position Summary We're looking for a Data Engineer to design, build, and optimize ETL pipelines that ingest and transform priority datasets into an enterprise data platform, using AWS-native services within a Medallion (Bronze–Silver–Gold) architecture, for a federal government client. Job location is the Washington, DC Metro Area. Hybrid or Remote options can be considered. Position is contingent upon contract award. Key Responsibilities Design, build, test, and deploy ETL pipelines using AWS-native services or approved third-party tools hosted on AWS Develop supporting data models, schemas, validation frameworks, and database structures; enhance models to support expanded analytics and reporting Implement scalable data validation and quality checks, including error handling and lineage capture Produce complete technical documentation including ERDs, data dictionaries, and pipeline specifications Collaborate with stakeholders to prioritize datasets, define sequencing, and identify phased deployment options Support thorough testing across development, staging, and production environments Meet defined performance standards for pipeline reliability, data-validation pass rates, and data freshness Required Qualifications 3–7 years designing and maintaining AWS-based data pipelines (Glue, Lambda, Step Functions, S3) Experience building serverless, event-driven ETL/ELT workflows and Medallion/Lakehouse designs Proficiency in Python, SQL, PySpark, Pandas, or similar data processing frameworks Experience with data validation tools (e.g., Great Expectations), data catalogs (AWS Glue, Lake Formation), CI/CD, and infrastructure-as-code (Terraform) Experience producing technical documentation (ERDs, data dictionaries, lineage diagrams) for government or regulated stakeholders Preferred Certifications AWS Certified Data Engineer – Associate AWS Certified Developer – Associate AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate Additional Requirements Must be able to pass a federal background investigation prior to starting work and maintain eligibility throughout the engagement. Salary range for this position is $120,000.00 - $130,000.00 Work Authorization: At this time, we are unable to sponsor new H-1B visas or other employment-based visa petitions for this position. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future employer sponsorship. Why Join Us? Join a collaborative team supporting high-impact federal programs that incorporate innovative technology solutions. You'll have the opportunity to lead complex modernization initiatives, work alongside talented technical professionals, and help shape the future of government IT and data management. Synectics is an equal opportunity employer.