Staff Data Engineer

Summary

Join NinjaHoldings as a (Sr.) Staff Data Engineer and define the technical strategy for enterprise data systems using Snowflake and dbt. You will provide architectural leadership, build and optimize data pipelines, and design robust data solutions. This role combines strategic vision with hands-on execution, supporting analytics, reporting, and operational needs. You will lead through analysis, design, collaboration, and mentorship, driving data excellence. The position involves working across various data domains, including Analytics & Reporting, Data Integration, Governance & Compliance, and Operational Data. You will partner with stakeholders to enhance the data stack and mentor your team.

Requirements

• 10-12 years of experience in data architecture, data engineering, or related fields, with a focus on designing enterprise data systems, including hands-on experience building data pipelines or optimizing data platforms
• 5+ years of hands-on experience with modern cloud-based data platforms, preferably Snowflake, including expertise in SQL scripting, virtual compute resources, data ingestion pipelines, change data capture mechanisms, task orchestration, and data sharing capabilities
• 3+ years of experience with modern data transformation frameworks, preferably dbt, focused on modular data modeling, incremental processing, automated testing, and comprehensive documentation
• Demonstrated experience contributing in an Agile environment, building cloud-based data solutions (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) with Snowflake as the core platform
• Proven track record of leading data projects from inception to completion and mentoring data engineers or analysts
• Deep understanding of building scalable data architectures, including data lakes, warehouses, and lakehouses
• Experience designing and implementing well-documented data pipelines and integrations with tools like Fivetran, Airflow, or Matillion
• Strong knowledge of data governance, security practices, and compliance frameworks (e.g., GDPR, CCPA, HIPAA) within Snowflake and dbt
• Data-driven, analytical, and an effective communicator who grasps the big picture while maintaining focus on critical details
• Natural problem solver who starts with the “why,” applying first principles to define meaningful solutions

Responsibilities

• Provide architectural leadership across interdependent data engineering teams, systems, and business units, focusing on Data Platform solutions
• Design and connect data systems to deliver clean, discoverable, and high-quality data across analytics, operations, and product teams using scalable data sharing and modular transformation practices
• Partner with business stakeholders to enhance the data stack, addressing needs such as data governance, compliance, performance optimization, and advanced analytics
• Elevate your teammates’ expertise in cloud data architecture, transformation workflows, and data modeling best practices
• Contribute to the design and review of critical data components, including schemas, models, and data pipelines
• Provide critical thinking, technical innovation, and meticulous attention to detail as a trusted advisor and mentor to your team
• Support quality assurance, validation, and performance testing to ensure data system reliability, functionality, and efficiency

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in industries with complex data needs, such as fintech, healthcare, or e-commerce
• Familiarity with additional cloud data tools (e.g., AWS Redshift, Google BigQuery, Azure Synapse) or BI platforms (e.g., Tableau, Power BI)
• Snowflake SnowPro Core/Advanced Architect or dbt Analytics Engineering Certification
• Enjoyment of working in growth-stage companies and building data systems from the ground up
• Exceptional leadership with an ownership mentality

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Flexible, remote work
• Fun, fast-paced work environment
• Dynamic start-up culture
• Ability to make an immediate impact in a growth stage company
• Convenient downtown Chicago office located in the heart of the city
• Equal opportunity employer