Job Description & Details
Data engineering is at the heart of modern analytics, and companies are racing to turn raw data into actionable insights. As a Lead Data Engineer/Analyst in Michigan, you'll bridge the gap between data pipelines and business intelligence, shaping strategy for a data‑driven future. This hybrid role offers the chance to lead cutting‑edge projects while collaborating with local teams.
Job Summary
We are seeking a seasoned Lead Data Engineer / Analyst to design, build, and maintain robust data pipelines and analytical solutions. The role combines deep technical expertise in SQL, Python, PySpark, and Azure Databricks with strong visualization skills in Power BI/Tableau to deliver actionable insights for business stakeholders. Candidates must be U.S. citizens and reside in Michigan, working in a hybrid environment.
Top 3 Critical Skills Table
| Skill | Why it's critical | Mastery Level |
|---|---|---|
| SQL | Foundation for data extraction, transformation, and reporting across all business units | Senior |
| PySpark | Enables scalable processing of large‑volume data sets on distributed clusters | Senior |
| Azure Databricks | Core platform for building, orchestrating, and optimizing data pipelines in the cloud | Senior |
Interview Preparation
- Explain how you would design an end‑to‑end data pipeline from raw ingestion to Power BI dashboard using Azure Data Factory and Databricks.
What the interviewer is looking for: Understanding of orchestration (ADF), transformation (Databricks/PySpark), and visualization integration. - What performance tuning techniques do you apply in PySpark jobs on Databricks?
What the interviewer is looking for: Knowledge of partitioning, caching, broadcast joins, and cluster sizing. - Demonstrate how you would write an optimized SQL query to aggregate millions of rows for a monthly sales report.
What the interviewer is looking for: Ability to use indexing, window functions, and query plan analysis. - How do you ensure data quality and governance when handling multiple data sources in Azure?
What the interviewer is looking for: Experience with data validation, schema enforcement, and Azure Purview or similar tools. - Describe a situation where you translated a complex analytical requirement into a Power BI (or Tableau) solution.
What the interviewer is looking for: Communication skills, stakeholder management, and visualization best practices.
Resume Optimization
- Lead Data Engineer
- Data Analyst
- SQL
- Python
- PySpark
- Power BI
- Tableau
- Azure Databricks
- Azure Data Factory (ADF)
- Data Engineering & Analytics
Application Strategy
When reaching out to the recruiter, send a concise email greeting, attach your resume, and clearly highlight your top skills that match the role. Make sure to mention related skills you possess, such as SQL, PySpark, and Azure Databricks, and reference any projects where you built end‑to‑end pipelines or delivered BI dashboards. Emphasize your local Michigan residency and U.S. citizenship as required.
Career Roadmap
| Current Role | Typical Experience | Core Focus | Next Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lead Data Engineer / Analyst | 5‑7 years in data engineering & analytics | End‑to‑end pipeline design, stakeholder alignment | Senior Data Architect |
| Senior Data Architect | 8‑10 years, multi‑cloud expertise | Enterprise data strategy, governance | Director of Data Engineering |
| Director of Data Engineering | 12+ years, leadership & vision | Organizational data roadmap, team growth | VP of Data & Analytics |