Junior Data EngineerJob Description
Everything recruiters need to write, post, and fill a junior data engineer role—fast.
Job Description Sample
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Job Title: Junior Data Engineer
Location: Remote/Hybrid
Type: Full-time
About the Role:
We are seeking a talented Junior Data Engineer to join our growing data team. The ideal candidate will help design and implement data pipelines, collaborate with data scientists, and maintain data infrastructure using modern cloud technologies. This role offers excellent opportunities to learn and grow while working on challenging data projects that drive business value.
Key Responsibilities:
- Build and maintain ETL/ELT pipelines for data processing and integration
- Assist in designing and implementing data models and database schemas
- Write and optimize SQL queries for data extraction and transformation
- Help maintain data quality and documentation standards
- Support data scientists with data preparation and pipeline development
- Participate in code reviews and technical documentation
- Monitor data pipeline performance and troubleshoot issues
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams on data initiatives
Perks:
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- Flexible remote work options
- Professional development and certification support
- 401(k) matching program
Junior Data Engineer Responsibilities
Hiring a junior data engineer? Here's what you can expect them to handle:
- Design and implement scalable data pipelines using modern ETL tools
- Develop and maintain data warehouse solutions
- Create and optimize SQL queries for data transformation
- Implement data quality checks and monitoring systems
- Assist in cloud infrastructure management for data systems
- Collaborate with data scientists on model deployment
- Document technical processes and maintain data catalogs
- Support data governance and security initiatives
Qualifications to Be a Junior Data Engineer
Here's what a solid candidate typically brings to the table:
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field0-2 years of experience in data engineering or similar roleStrong SQL and database management skillsProgramming experience with Python or JavaUnderstanding of ETL/ELT processesJunior Data Engineer Prerequisites
Before you even think of hiring, make sure your candidates have:
Basic knowledge of cloud platforms (AWS/Azure/GCP)Version control experience with GitUnderstanding of data warehousing conceptsStrong problem-solving abilitiesExcellent communication skillsJunior Data Engineer Hard Skills
The “must-haves” on every recruiter's checklist:
Programming Languages: Python, SQLDatabase Systems: PostgreSQL, MySQLETL Tools: Apache Airflow, dbtCloud Platforms: AWS, AzureBig Data: Spark, HadoopData Warehousing: Snowflake, RedshiftVersion Control: Git, GitHubScripting: Bash, PowerShellJunior Data Engineer Soft Skills
Tech skills get them in the door—soft skills help them stick around.
Clear communication and documentationProblem-solving and analytical thinkingTeam collaborationTime managementAttention to detailLearning agilityProject organizationAdaptability to changeJunior Data Engineer Salary by Experience Level
Entry Level (0-2 Years)
$70k – $95k
Common Titles
Junior Junior Data Engineer, Associate Junior Data Engineer
Mid Level (2-5 Years)
$95k – $140k
Common Titles
Junior Data Engineer, Junior Data Engineer II
Senior Level (5+ Years)
$140k – $200k
Common Titles
Senior Junior Data Engineer, Lead Junior Data Engineer
Frequently Asked QuestionsAbout Junior Data Engineer Hiring
Junior Data Engineers focus on building and maintaining data infrastructure, while Junior Data Analysts focus on analyzing data and creating reports. Engineers work more with programming and pipeline development, whereas analysts work more with visualization and business insights.
Use a combination of SQL coding challenges, basic Python programming tests, and system design discussions. Focus on fundamentals rather than complex scenarios, and evaluate their problem-solving approach.
Look out for candidates who can't explain basic data concepts, lack version control experience, or show no interest in data quality. Poor communication skills and inability to discuss previous projects in detail are also warning signs.
Prioritize strong programming fundamentals and SQL skills over specific cloud platform experience. Cloud technologies can be learned on the job, but strong coding fundamentals are essential from day one.
Focus on code quality, documentation, and problem-solving approach rather than project complexity. Look for evidence of version control usage, clear documentation, and basic data pipeline implementation.
Tools and Programs Junior Data Engineer Use
Here's what their digital toolbox might look like:
ETL/ELT
Airflow•dbt
Databases
PostgreSQL•MySQL
Cloud Services
AWS•Azure
Version Control
Git•GitHub
Data Warehousing
Snowflake•BigQuery
Monitoring
Grafana•Datadog
IDE/Editors
VSCode•PyCharm
CI/CD
Jenkins•GitLab
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