ETL Development Engineer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the age of big data, the need for skilled ETL Development Engineers is more crucial than ever.
As technology continues to advance, the demand for proficient minds who can construct, streamline, and secure our data infrastructure is escalating.
But what really does an ETL Development Engineer do?
Whether you are:
- An individual trying to understand the core of this role,
- A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
- Or simply intrigued by the behind-the-scenes of ETL development,
You’ve come to the right place.
Today, we present a tailor-made ETL Development Engineer job description template, devised for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right in.
ETL Development Engineer Duties and Responsibilities
ETL Development Engineers are responsible for the design, construction, and implementation of tools for the extraction, transformation, and loading (ETL) of data across multiple systems.
Their duties include a mix of data analysis, programming, and database management.
Their daily duties and responsibilities include:
- Designing and developing ETL processes that transform and load data into the database
- Creating and managing ETL workflows and schedules
- Analyzing and interpreting complex data sets from various sources
- Ensuring the accuracy and integrity of data through all ETL processes
- Optimizing ETL processes for performance and scalability
- Developing and maintaining documentation for ETL processes, database diagrams, and process flow diagrams
- Identifying, troubleshooting, and resolving problems with data loading and extraction
- Working with data analysts and other stakeholders to understand data requirements
- Staying up to date with new technologies and advancements in the field of ETL development
- Providing support and maintenance of ETL systems
ETL Development Engineer Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are looking for a proficient ETL Development Engineer to join our team.
The responsibilities will include designing and implementing Extract, Transform, and Load (ETL) processes, procedures, and architectures.
The job role involves managing data workflow, optimizing data systems and building them from the ground up.
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in software engineering and data management, and have experience with SQL, ETL and data warehousing technologies.
Responsibilities
- Design, construct, install, test and maintain highly scalable data management systems.
- Ensure that all systems meet business requirements and industry practices.
- Build high-performance algorithms, prototypes, predictive models, and proof of concepts.
- Research opportunities for data acquisition and new uses for existing data.
- Develop data set processes for data modeling, mining, and production.
- Integrate new data management technologies and software engineering tools into existing structures.
- Create custom software components and analytics applications.
- Ensure that the data architecture supports business and technical requirements.
- Collaborate with data architects, modelers, and IT team members on project goals.
Qualifications
- Proven work experience as an ETL Development Engineer or similar role.
- Experience in data modeling, ETL development, and data warehousing.
- Knowledge of SQL queries, SSIS, or other ETL tools.
- Familiarity with Big Data tools like Hadoop, Spark, Kafka, or others.
- Experience with Data Visualization tools and techniques.
- Strong organizational and analytical skills.
- Ability to manage and communicate with cross-functional teams.
- BSc/MSc in Computer Science, Engineering, or a relevant field.
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: ETL Development Engineer
- 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 Engineering Manager or Data Architect.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $90,000 minimum to $150,000 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 ETL Development Engineer Do?
ETL Development Engineers, or Extract, Transform, Load Engineers, typically work for a variety of industries, especially those that deal with large amounts of data.
They can be part of a larger IT team in a corporation, or work for specialized IT consulting firms.
Their primary responsibility is to design, develop, and support ETL processes that integrate data from multiple sources into a unified, comprehensible format.
They are skilled in using ETL tools to extract data from source systems, transform it according to business rules and load it into destination systems.
These engineers work closely with data architects and database administrators to define data requirements and structure for ETL processes.
They also collaborate with business analysts to understand the specific data needs of the business.
ETL Development Engineers are responsible for the creation and maintenance of documentation related to ETL processes, data flow, and data mapping.
They need to ensure that the ETL processes are efficient, reliable, and can handle the required volume of data.
In addition, they may also be involved in troubleshooting, debugging, and enhancing existing ETL processes to improve performance and add new features.
They are required to stay updated with the latest industry trends and technologies to ensure their skills and knowledge are up-to-date.
Overall, an ETL Development Engineer plays a critical role in a company’s data management strategy by ensuring that data is accurately and effectively moved and transformed for business use.
ETL Development Engineer Qualifications and Skills
ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) Development Engineers require a specific skill set to manage and manipulate data, these include:
- Expertise in ETL methodologies, able to design and implement complex ETL processes efficiently.
- Proficiency in SQL, with the ability to write complex queries and optimize database performance.
- Strong knowledge in database theory and design, as well as experience with data warehousing.
- Experience with ETL tools such as Informatica, DataStage, SSIS or similar.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to understand data requirements and troubleshoot any issues that arise during the ETL process.
- Excellent attention to detail to ensure data integrity and quality throughout the ETL process.
- Strong communication skills to effectively collaborate with other members of the team, including data analysts, data scientists, and other engineers.
- Ability to multitask and manage multiple ETL projects concurrently, while meeting deadlines and maintaining high-quality work.
- Understanding of data privacy and security principles.
ETL Development Engineer Experience Requirements
Entry-level ETL Development Engineers usually require 1 to 2 years of experience, typically gained through internships, co-op programs, or part-time roles in data engineering or ETL development.
They may have experience working with ETL tools like Informatica, SQL, SSIS, or DataStage, and may also have a background in computer science or a related field.
Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often have a deep understanding of ETL concepts and have honed their skills in data warehouse development and database administration.
They might also have significant experience with scripting languages like Python, Java or Perl, and in working with complex data sets and multiple databases.
Those with more than 5 years of ETL development experience are often considered senior ETL Engineers.
They usually have a track record of leading large-scale data projects, designing and implementing ETL workflows, and optimizing systems for better performance.
They might also have a background in project management and experience in mentoring junior team members.
In addition to these technical skills, ETL Development Engineers at all levels need to have strong problem-solving skills, the ability to work in a team, and a keen eye for detail.
They should also be familiar with data privacy regulations and best practices in data management.
ETL Development Engineer Education and Training Requirements
ETL Development Engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field.
They need a strong background in database systems, data warehousing, and must be familiar with ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) tools like Informatica, Talend, Datastage, or others.
Understanding of SQL, Python, or other scripting languages is often needed for creating and managing ETL processes.
Knowledge of data modeling and relational database design is also desirable.
Certain positions may require ETL Development Engineers to have a master’s degree in a specific Information Technology or Data Science discipline.
Additional certification in specific ETL tools, database management systems, or big data solutions can be a significant advantage and demonstrate a candidate’s dedication to mastering the role’s skills.
Having a master’s degree and/or certification may also indicate a candidate’s potential for leadership roles and commitment to continuous professional development.
ETL Development Engineer Salary Expectations
An ETL Development Engineer can expect to earn an average salary of $96,027 (USD) per year.
However, the actual income may fluctuate based on several factors such as level of experience, relevant education, location, and the company of employment.
ETL Development Engineer Job Description FAQs
What skills does an ETL Development Engineer need?
ETL Development Engineers should possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as they will often need to troubleshoot and optimize ETL processes.
They should have expertise in SQL and other database technologies, as well as proficiency in ETL tools such as Informatica, Datastage, or SSIS.
Knowledge of data warehousing concepts and structures is also critical.
Additionally, good communication skills are important to effectively collaborate with team members and stakeholders.
Do ETL Development Engineers need a degree?
ETL Development Engineers typically need a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field.
However, relevant work experience in ETL Development can sometimes substitute for formal education.
Some roles might also prefer candidates with a master’s degree or specific certifications related to ETL tools or database technologies.
What should you look for in an ETL Development Engineer resume?
When reviewing an ETL Development Engineer resume, check for a strong background in ETL tools and technologies, and experience with data warehousing.
Look for proficiency in SQL or other programming languages, and familiarity with various databases and data modeling techniques.
Relevant certifications, a degree in a related field, and experience with specific industries or business domains can be a plus.
What qualities make a good ETL Development Engineer?
A good ETL Development Engineer is detail-oriented and has a strong understanding of data and database structures.
They are problem solvers, capable of debugging and optimizing complex ETL processes.
They also keep up with the latest trends and developments in ETL technologies.
Good communication skills are also important, as they often need to collaborate with different teams and present data to non-technical stakeholders.
Is it difficult to hire ETL Development Engineers?
Hiring ETL Development Engineers can be challenging due to the specialized skill set required for this role.
It can be difficult to find candidates with the right mix of technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of data warehousing concepts.
Companies often have to offer competitive packages and continuous learning opportunities to attract and retain the best talent.
Conclusion
And there we have it.
Today, we’ve unraveled the intricacies of what it truly means to be an ETL development engineer.
Surprise, surprise!
It’s not just about data extraction, transformation, and loading.
It’s about sculpting the future of data management, one dataset at a time.
With our ready-to-use ETL development engineer job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to take the leap.
But why end here?
Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate guide to creating detailed job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.
Keep in mind:
Every bit of data is a piece of the bigger puzzle.
Let’s shape the future of data. Together.
How to Become an ETL Development Engineer (Complete Guide)
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