Join Raft as a Chief Data Engineer in Reston, VA

About Raft

Raft, headquartered in Reston, VA, is a non-traditional, customer-obsessed small business focused on Distributed Data Systems, Platforms at Scale, and Complex Application Development. Our clients range from pioneering federal to public agencies that utilize a cutting-edge tech stack and a cloud-native ecosystem to create impactful digital solutions for millions of Americans.

Role Overview: Chief Data Engineer

As the Chief Data Engineer at Raft, you will spearhead the development of our Data Platform, assisting in the implementation of Data Fabric and Data Mesh architectures. This role is critical in leading our software teams through the challenges of scaling production massively and securely. Your leadership will be pivotal in making strategic architectural decisions that meet both current and future needs.

Job Responsibilities

• Lead the engineering teams, involving 12+ professionals in planning and execution.
• Influence the architecture and scaling of our opinionated Data Platform.
• Ensure the solutions are secure enough for DoD Enterprise and adaptable to future requirements.
• Contribute to the development using languages like Java, Python, or GoLang.

Preferred Qualifications

• 5 to 8+ years of hands-on experience in Data Engineering.
• Advanced proficiency in scripting languages such as Bash, Ansible, or Terraform.
• Proven background in Data-focused tools like DBT, Pinot, Trino, and Kafka.
• Experience in Graph Databases, Knowledge Graphs, and developing APIs.
• Leadership experience with large-scale technical teams.
• Master’s degree or higher in a related field.
• Eligibility to obtain Security+ certification within the first 90 days.
• A capability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.

Why Work With Us?

• Highly competitive salary with full benefits, including healthcare, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) with company match, generous PTO, paid holidays, and training benefits.
• Annual technology budget and monthly snack boxes.
• Options for remote, hybrid, and flexible working arrangements.
• Relocation to Tampa, FL (expenses covered) with up to 10% travel.

Our Core Philosophy

Raft is dedicated to bridging the gap between humans and data through transparency and dedication to our mission. We encourage a customer-obsessed approach and believe in the power of public-sector modernization. We embrace the philosophy of Ubuntu: "I Am Because We Are," fostering a collaborative and innovative culture that appreciates diversity.

Equal Opportunity Employment

We are committed to creating a diverse environment and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.

Company Name: Raft
Job Title: Chief Data Engineer
Location: Reston, VA (Relocation to Tampa, FL available)