Data Engineer at Clark in McLean, VA

Data Engineer Location: McLean, VA We are looking for an ambitious entry level Data Engineer to join our data operations team. In this role, you will help build and maintain the data backbone of our organization—the essential systems that transform raw, fragmented data into a structured, reliable resource. This is a perfect opportunity for a recent graduate to transition from academic theory to professional practice. You will work under the mentorship of senior engineers to master the art of building scalable, production-grade data environments that power our most critical business decisions. This is a full-time onsite position based in our McLean, VA office. Key Responsibilities Data Integration: Assist in building and monitoring end-to-end data pipelines that serve as the bridge between source systems and our data warehouse. Transformation Logic: Write and maintain scripts to clean, structure, and enrich data, ensuring it is optimized for high-level analysis. Quality Assurance: Implement automated validation checks to identify data discrepancies and ensure our "source of truth" remains accurate. Schema Support: Help design and refine data models and database structures to keep our storage systems organized and easy to navigate. Collaboration: Work closely with Data Scientists and Analysts to understand their requirements and deliver the datasets they need to succeed. Basic Qualifications Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, or a related quantitative field. Foundational Experience: 0–2+ years of experience. We highly value relevant internship experience, open-source contributions, or significant academic projects. Programming: Strong proficiency in Python (or a similar language like Java/Scala) with an emphasis on writing clean, maintainable code. SQL: Solid understanding of relational database concepts and the ability to write complex queries (joins, window functions, and aggregations). Database Knowledge: Exposure to relational databases (e.g., PostgreSQL, MySQL) and an interest in learning NoSQL environments (e.g., MongoDB). Cloud & Big Data: Familiarity with cloud concepts (AWS, Azure, or GCP) and basic exposure to distributed computing (e.g., Spark) is a significant plus. Tooling: A desire to learn modern orchestration and transformation tools such as Airflow or dbt. Preferred Qualifications Curious Problem Solver: You enjoy deconstructing a problem to its root cause rather than just applying a quick fix. Efficiency Minded: You are naturally inclined to look for ways to make code run faster and processes more reliable. Adaptable: You are excited by the fast-moving nature of data technology and are eager to learn new frameworks as they emerge. The work environment and requirements described below are representative of those necessary for an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this role. The Physical Side of the Role: Given that a good portion of your day will be spent at a desk, you should be comfortable with prolonged periods of focused work, whether it's collaborating with colleagues, analyzing data, or developing strategies. The role demands effective communication and sharp visual acuity for reviewing complex documents and performing detailed computer work. While there are times for quiet concentration, you'll also be expected to move actively throughout the office and travel occasionally to various locations, including dynamic construction sites, utilizing different modes of transportation. The ability to lift and move objects up to 10 pounds regularly, and up to 25 pounds on occasion (think a box of files or small office equipment), is also required. Your Work Environment: Your primary workspace will be in our professional office, which has a typical, quiet-to-moderate noise and light levels. As part of your work, you may also be required to visit active construction sites. These environments are naturally more dynamic and can include exposure to outdoor weather conditions, louder noise, and moving equipment. Your safety is our top priority, and you'll be expected to follow Clark Construction's safety policies and procedures, and all applicable laws, at all locations. Our High-Performing Culture: This is a demanding, high-performance environment. We are looking for candidates who are energized by challenge, thrive under pressure, and are prepared to do what it takes to achieve exceptional results. Success in this role requires significant commitment, including flexibility to work extended hours, especially during critical project phases or client deadlines. Beyond regular working hours, there will be occasions where business needs require your attention, particularly for time-sensitive matters or emergencies. You are expected to monitor and respond to communications (phone calls, emails, text messages) as required to address these situations effectively. Your ability to manage these expectations and be responsive when critical issues arise is key to your success in this role and our collective success as a team.