About the Senior Data Engineer Role at Robert Half

Join Robert Half as a Senior Data Engineer in Houston, Texas, where you'll play a pivotal role in building and scaling cutting-edge, cloud-native data platforms on Microsoft Azure. This full-time position is perfect for seasoned data professionals passionate about modern data engineering, platform governance, and enabling advanced analytics. You'll design robust ETL/ELT pipelines, ensure governed data access across departments, and partner with analytics and data science teams to drive forecasting, predictive analytics, and executive reporting. Thrive at the intersection of technologies like Azure Data Factory (ADF), Spark, Databricks, SQL, Python, Microsoft Purview, RBAC, Power BI, Tableau, and Microsoft Fabric. If you're ready to lead Azure cloud adoption and deliver measurable business impact, this Senior Data Engineer role offers an exciting opportunity in Houston's dynamic tech scene.

Key Responsibilities

• Build Scalable Pipelines: Design, implement, and maintain reliable ETL/ELT pipelines for transactional and bulk data loads using Azure Data Factory, Spark, Databricks, SQL, and Python. Ensure seamless data ingestion from diverse sources to support high-volume processing.
• Orchestration & Reliability: Develop scheduling, monitoring, alerting systems, and data quality checks to create observable, trustworthy pipelines that minimize downtime and errors.
• Azure Platform Ownership: Spearhead Azure cloud migration and modernization, integrating Azure DevOps for CI/CD pipelines, Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC), and Databricks for unified data engineering workflows.
• Analytics Enablement: Collaborate with data scientists and BI teams to build end-to-end solutions, from raw data ingestion and normalization to model deployment and visualization in Power BI and Tableau.
• AI/ML Collaboration: Productionize features, datasets, and models for forecasting and predictive analytics, including RNNs and generative AI; establish MLOps best practices for scalable deployments.
• Microsoft Fabric & OneLake: Leverage Microsoft Fabric, OneLake, and Spark notebooks to create governed, discoverable data products that promote self-service analytics.
• Data Governance: Implement role-based access control (RBAC), compliance frameworks with Microsoft Purview, and standardize metadata management, lineage tracking, and data stewardship.
• Performance & Cost Optimization: Continuously tune pipelines, clusters, and storage for optimal performance, scalability, and cost efficiency in Azure environments.
• Stakeholder Partnership: Work cross-functionally with engineering, security, business intelligence, and executive teams to prioritize backlogs and deliver high-impact outcomes.

Required Qualifications for Senior Data Engineers

To excel in this Senior Data Engineer position with Robert Half in Houston, TX, you need 5+ years of hands-on experience in data engineering, with deep expertise in Azure cloud services. Key qualifications include:

• Proven proficiency in ETL/ELT tools: Azure Data Factory, Apache Spark, Databricks, SQL, and Python scripting.
• Strong experience with data governance platforms like Microsoft Purview and RBAC implementation.
• Hands-on work with analytics tools such as Power BI, Tableau, Microsoft Fabric, and OneLake.
• Demonstrated success in AI/ML productionization, MLOps, and supporting advanced models like RNNs.
• Expertise in DevOps practices: Azure DevOps, CI/CD, IaC (Terraform/ARM), and cloud cost optimization.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to collaborate in agile, cross-functional teams.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Data Engineering, or related field (advanced degrees preferred).
• Experience in energy, finance, or enterprise sectors is a plus for Houston-based roles.

We're seeking candidates who are proactive, innovative, and passionate about transforming data into business value through modern cloud technologies.

Why Join Robert Half as a Senior Data Engineer?

Robert Half offers more than just a job—it's a career-launching platform in Houston's thriving tech hub. Enjoy a competitive salary range of $140,000 - $180,000 (based on experience), comprehensive benefits including health insurance, 401(k) matching, PTO, and professional growth opportunities. Work in a collaborative environment with cutting-edge Azure tools, flexible hybrid options, and direct impact on strategic initiatives. Advance your expertise in high-demand skills like Databricks, Microsoft Fabric, and AI/ML ops while contributing to innovative projects. Apply now for this Senior Data Engineer role and elevate your career with Robert Half in Houston, Texas!

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