AWS Big Data Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of big data, the demand for AWS Big Data Specialists is at an all-time high.

As technology continues to advance, the need for talented individuals who can manage, analyze, and protect our voluminous data continues to grow.

But let’s delve deeper: What exactly is expected of an AWS Big Data Specialist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the nuances of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or just curious about the intricacies of big data management,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we introduce a comprehensive AWS Big Data Specialist job description template, created for straightforward posting on job boards or career websites.

Without further ado, let’s dive in.

AWS Big Data Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

AWS Big Data Specialists are responsible for designing and implementing big data solutions using Amazon Web Services (AWS).

They work with data scientists and other stakeholders to transform data and deliver actionable insights.

Here are some of the duties and responsibilities of an AWS Big Data Specialist:

• Design and implement big data solutions using AWS services like Amazon S3, Amazon Redshift, Amazon Kinesis, and others
• Analyze the needs and challenges of the client or organization and tailor AWS-based solutions accordingly
• Work with data scientists and analysts to transform data and deliver insights
• Ensure the security and compliance of solutions, following best practices and organizational policies
• Optimize solutions for performance, cost, and business value
• Develop automation for managing big data assets
• Create data pipelines, architectures, and data sets
• Troubleshoot operational issues and find suitable solutions
• Keep up to date with advancements in the field of big data and AWS offerings
• Provide training and support to other team members and stakeholders on the use of big data solutions

 

AWS Big Data Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a knowledgeable AWS Big Data Specialist to join our team.

In this role, you will be responsible for designing, developing, and implementing big data analytics solutions on AWS.

You will work closely with our data team to create robust, scalable, and secure cloud-based data platforms.

Our ideal candidate is highly skilled in using AWS big data services such as Redshift, Kinesis, DynamoDB, and EMR, and possesses a deep understanding of database structures, theories, principles, and practices.

 

Responsibilities

• Design, build and operationalize large scale enterprise data solutions and applications using one or more of AWS data and analytics services.
• Implement and automate data extraction, ingestion and processing of large, complex data sets.
• Ensure architecture supports business requirements and meets the needs of data consumers.
• Perform data processing required to make the data analysis ready.
• Monitor data performance and modify infrastructure as needed.
• Develop data privacy and security measures.
• Maintain knowledge of industry trends and utilize this knowledge to educate both IT and the business on opportunities to build better target architectures.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an AWS Big Data Specialist or similar role
• Familiarity with AWS big data services such as Redshift, Kinesis, DynamoDB, and EMR
• Experience in building, migrating and testing AWS data lakes and data warehouses
• Excellent understanding of database structures, theories, principles, and practices.
• Knowledge of data management and visualization techniques
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to collect, organize, analyze, and disseminate significant amounts of information with attention to detail and accuracy.
• BSc degree in Computer Science, Engineering or relevant field. AWS certifications preferred.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: AWS Big Data Specialist
• Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Some travel may be required for team meetings or client consultations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Data Manager or Big Data Architect.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $130,000 minimum to $200,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an AWS Big Data Specialist Do?

AWS Big Data Specialists work in the technology sector, primarily dealing with Amazon Web Services (AWS), a popular cloud services platform.

They specialize in managing and analyzing large sets of data, known as big data, on the AWS platform.

Their key duties revolve around designing, deploying, and managing scalable, highly available, and fault-tolerant systems on AWS.

They are involved in data transfer from on-site premises to AWS and between AWS components.

They also select the appropriate AWS services to design and deploy an application based on given requirements.

AWS Big Data Specialists perform data analysis using AWS tools and services, including AWS Glue, AWS Athena, and Amazon Redshift.

They also manage and maintain databases, often requiring extensive knowledge of SQL and NoSQL databases.

A significant part of their role is to identify and define technical requirements for an AWS-based application.

They also estimate AWS costs and identify cost control measures.

Moreover, AWS Big Data Specialists may design and maintain big data analytics applications on AWS, work on data security and compliance, and conduct troubleshooting on AWS big data systems.

They are expected to keep themselves updated with the evolving AWS technologies to leverage new services and features effectively.

 

AWS Big Data Specialist Qualifications and Skills

An AWS Big Data Specialist should have a wide range of technical and soft skills to effectively manage and manipulate large data sets on the AWS platform, these include:

• Strong knowledge of Big Data querying tools, such as Pig, Hive, and Impala, to manage and manipulate data effectively.
• Extensive experience with AWS services like Redshift, S3, EC2, Kinesis and familiarity with AWS data lakes and analytics services.
• Ability to develop and maintain pipelines that transform and load data into these platforms using ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) processes.
• Strong programming skills in languages such as Python, Java, or Scala for data manipulation and analysis.
• Understanding of distributed systems and how to work with large datasets across distributed storage.
• Ability to apply Machine Learning and Data Mining techniques for analytical problems and clear understanding of statistical analysis.
• Excellent problem-solving skills to identify, troubleshoot, and propose solutions for data issues.
• Strong communication skills to effectively collaborate with other teams and stakeholders, as well as to translate complex data-related issues into understandable terms.
• Proficiency in data modeling and knowledge of SQL and NoSQL database systems.
• AWS Certified Big Data Specialty certification would be a significant advantage.

 

AWS Big Data Specialist Experience Requirements

Candidates for the AWS Big Data Specialist role are generally expected to have a minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience in the field of data analysis or data science.

This could include experience with data processing, data storage, and data visualization.

In addition to this, candidates should have at least 2 years of hands-on experience designing and architecting with AWS services.

This includes experience with AWS data services like Redshift, Athena, Kinesis, EMR, and Glue.

Experience with big data tools such as Hadoop, Spark, Hive, or Pig is also beneficial.

Furthermore, understanding of data warehousing and relational databases is often required, as well as proficiency with SQL and NoSQL databases.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience in the field and advanced AWS certifications may be considered for senior roles.

These roles often require the ability to lead and manage projects, as well as demonstrate innovative thinking in the use and application of AWS and big data technologies.

Lastly, potential AWS Big Data Specialists should also have experience with programming languages such as Python or Java, as this will allow them to write scripts and automate tasks.

Familiarity with machine learning algorithms is also a plus, as it can help in creating more complex data models.

 

AWS Big Data Specialist Education and Training Requirements

AWS Big Data Specialists typically have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or another related field.

They should also have a strong background in database design and management, as well as familiarity with big data technologies such as Hadoop, Spark, and others.

Most employers also require AWS Big Data Specialists to have certification from Amazon Web Services.

The AWS Certified Big Data – Specialty certification validates a candidate’s knowledge of big data and the ability to design, deploy, and maintain big data applications using AWS.

Given the rapidly changing nature of technology, AWS Big Data Specialists should have a commitment to ongoing learning.

This might involve further certifications or advanced degrees in big data or a related field, such as data science or data engineering.

In addition to these, AWS Big Data Specialists should ideally have experience with programming languages such as Python, Java, or Scala.

They should also be comfortable with Linux-based systems and understand key principles of cloud computing.

Finally, AWS Big Data Specialists should possess strong problem-solving skills, as they will often be required to design and implement solutions to complex data-related problems.

 

AWS Big Data Specialist Salary Expectations

The average salary for an AWS Big Data Specialist is around $130,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can fluctuate depending on factors such as years of experience, specialized skills, certifications, and the geographical location of the job.

 

AWS Big Data Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does an AWS Big Data Specialist need?

An AWS Big Data Specialist needs to be proficient in using AWS services such as S3, EC2, RDS, DynamoDB, Redshift, and EMR.

They should also have excellent knowledge in big data technologies like Hadoop, Spark, and Hive.

Skills in scripting languages like Python, Java, and Scala would be an added advantage.

They should also have strong problem-solving abilities and good communication skills.

 

Do AWS Big Data Specialists need a degree?

Most AWS Big Data Specialists have a degree in computer science, data science, or a related field.

However, having relevant certifications like AWS Certified Big Data – Specialty can also be a valid qualification for this role.

These certifications demonstrate a specialist’s ability to design and maintain big data applications on AWS.

 

What should you look for in an AWS Big Data Specialist resume?

An AWS Big Data Specialist’s resume should highlight their technical skills in AWS and big data technologies.

Experience in designing, building, and maintaining big data applications should be clearly outlined.

Certifications like AWS Certified Big Data – Specialty, Cloudera Certified Data Analyst or Google Certified Professional Data Engineer would be a plus.

Also, look for evidence of problem-solving skills, teamwork, and strong communication.

 

What qualities make a good AWS Big Data Specialist?

A good AWS Big Data Specialist is analytical, detail-oriented, and has excellent problem-solving skills as they will be working with complex data architectures.

They should have strong technical skills in AWS technologies and big data tools.

Communication skills are also crucial as they often have to collaborate with other team members and stakeholders.

In addition, they should be continuously learning and staying updated with the latest trends in big data and cloud technologies.

 

Is it difficult to hire AWS Big Data Specialists?

Finding the right AWS Big Data Specialist can be challenging due to the high demand for these skills and the expertise required for this role.

To attract the best talent, it’s essential to offer a competitive salary and opportunities for growth and learning.

Furthermore, you should also look for individuals with a strong desire to stay updated with the latest trends in big data technologies and AWS.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the heart of what it means to be an AWS Big Data Specialist.

And you know what?

It’s not just about managing databases.

It’s about architecting the digital future, one dataset at a time.

With our comprehensive AWS Big Data Specialist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the leap.

But why limit yourself?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating laser-focused job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every dataset is a part of the bigger digital ecosystem.

Let’s architect that future. Together.

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