Big Data Engineer, Gaithersburg

Software Guidance & Assistance, Inc., (SGA), is searching for a Big Data Engineer (Python/Spark/AWS) for a Contract assignment with one of our premier Regulatory clients in Rockville, MD.

This role is hybrid (2 days/week Onsite)

We are seeking a Big Data Engineer to lead the design, develop, and maintain scalable data pipelines and infrastructure to support our market regulation technology applications. You will play a key role in modernizing existing data pipelines, enabling downstream users to experiment with data using no-code/low-code features. You will collaborate closely with product managers, data scientists, and engineers to deliver high-performance systems that power market surveillance and regulatory workflows.

Responsibilities :

Design and modernize scalable, modular data pipelines from legacy SQL-based workflows.

Build efficient and reliable ETL processes using Apache Spark and cloud-native tools on AWS.

Create configurable pipelines that accelerate experimentation and feature selection for data science teams.

Optimize pipeline performance, reduce storage costs, and improve compute efficiency.

Ensure compliance with governance standards while maintaining data integrity and lineage.

Integrate seamlessly with enterprise data platforms, lakes, and cloud-based storage systems.

Implement and maintain CI/CD pipelines using Jenkins or similar tools.

Write robust automated tests, including unit, integration, and end-to-end coverage.

Collaborate within Agile teams, participating in sprint planning, reviews, and retrospectives.

Required Skills:

Bachelor's degree in computer science, Software Engineering, or a related field.

7+ years of experience in large-scale data engineering or data infrastructure roles.

Proficient in Python or Scala for building and maintaining data pipelines.

Deep expertise with Apache Spark, Hive, and distributed computing frameworks.

Strong knowledge of SQL and NoSQL databases (e.g., PostgreSQL, MongoDB, DynamoDB).

Experience with feature stores (e.g., Feast, Tecton, SageMaker Feature Store).

Hands-on with AWS services for compute, storage, and orchestration.

Experience implementing CI/CD practices and managing production deployments.

Familiarity with Apache Airflow and workflow orchestration tools.

Experience with machine learning feature engineering and model serving frameworks.

Comfortable with automated testing and working in test-driven environments.

Proven ability to thrive in Agile/Scrum teams and contribute to iterative development cycles.

Preferred Skills:

Familiarity with regulatory reporting, trade analytics, or financial data processing is a strong plus.

SGA is a technology and resource solutions provider driven to stand out. We are a women-owned business. Our mission: to solve big IT problems with a more personal, boutique approach. Each year, we match consultants like you to more than 1,000 engagements. When we say let's work better together, we mean it. You'll join a diverse team built on these core values: customer service, employee development, and quality and integrity in everything we do. Be yourself, love what you do and find your passion at work. Please find us at .

SGA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of Race, Color, Sex, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Religion, National Origin, Disability, Veteran Status, Age, Marital Status, Pregnancy, Genetic Information, or Other Legally Protected Status. We are committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, and our services, programs, and activities. Please visit our company to request an accommodation or assistance regarding our policy.