Senior Data Engineer

NS2 Mission is seeking a Senior Data Engineer to join its on-site team in Chantilly, VA. The role focuses on leading Python-based data processing, ETL development, and cloud data engineering, while shaping data architecture, mentoring engineers, and driving practices that deliver scalable, mission-critical data solutions. This senior position typically requires 8 to 12+ years in data or related technical fields.

Responsibilities

• Drive the end-to-end design, building, and optimization of scalable ETL pipelines and enterprise data workflows
• Architect and deploy Python-based data processing solutions in production settings
• Offer technical leadership and mentorship to junior and mid-level engineers across the team
• Advance data quality, pipeline reliability, scalability, and overall operational performance
• Collaborate with engineering leadership, product stakeholders, and cross-functional teams within an Agile framework
• Support cloud-native data solutions in AWS and contribute to infrastructure modernization
• Engage in technical planning, solution design discussions, and long-term data strategy initiatives
• Troubleshoot complex data engineering challenges and advise on best practices and process improvements

Requirements

• 8–12+ years of experience in data engineering, software engineering, or related technical fields
• Deep expertise across the entire ETL lifecycle, including architecture, development, optimization, and maintenance
• Advanced Python proficiency for large-scale data processing and pipeline development
• Hands-on experience with AWS cloud services such as EC2, Lambda, EKS, S3, and related tools
• Experience leading technical initiatives or mentoring engineering teams
• Strong understanding of scalable data architecture and engineering best practices
• Experience working in Agile development environments

Technologies

• Python
• AWS
• EC2
• Lambda
• EKS
• S3
• Apache Airflow
• Docker
• Kubernetes
• Terraform

What we’re looking for

• A senior-level Data Engineer who can lead by example while remaining hands-on technically
• Someone who enjoys mentoring team members and helping drive engineering best practices
• A collaborative technical leader comfortable influencing architecture and solution direction
• A candidate with strong Python and ETL expertise who can contribute immediately to complex data engineering initiatives
• Someone excited to help shape and scale modern cloud-based data solutions within a growing team

Position clearance requirement

TS/SCI with an FSP

We win with inclusion

NS2 Mission’s culture of inclusion, focus on health and well-being, and flexible working models help ensure that everyone – regardless of background – feels included and can run at their best. At NS2 Mission, we believe we are made stronger by the unique capabilities and qualities that each person brings to our company, and we invest in our employees to inspire confidence and help everyone realize their full potential. We ultimately believe in unleashing all talent and creating a better world.

Preferred qualifications

• Experience with workflow orchestration tools such as Apache Airflow
• Experience with containerization technologies including Docker and Kubernetes
• Experience with infrastructure as code tools such as Terraform
• Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines and DevOps best practices
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to improve data quality and operational efficiency