Data Engineer (On-Premise and Hybrid)

About the Role

JetHead Development is seeking a Data Engineer to build and maintain reliable data pipelines, streaming applications, and cloud infrastructure. You will help turn incoming data into well-structured, accessible datasets that support analytics and operational decision-making.

Our primary focus is mid-level candidates who can take ownership of development tasks. We also welcome entry-level applicants with strong technical fundamentals and relevant internship, academic, or personal project experience.

This position combines remote work with regular on-site collaboration at our Carlsbad facility. You will work closely with engineers, analysts, and customers, making communication and teamwork essential.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain streaming and batch data pipelines using Python, Apache Flink, and Kafka.
• Integrate data sources using Kafka Connect and AWS Managed Streaming for Apache Kafka (Amazon MSK).
• Build and maintain datasets using Apache Iceberg and support SQL access through Amazon Athena.
• Implement data validation, schema evolution, and error handling to keep pipelines reliable as data sources change.
• Package and deploy applications using Docker, Kubernetes, and AWS EKS.
• Support repeatable deployments through Helm, Terraform, and GitHub Actions.
• Monitor pipeline health, performance, and failures using Prometheus and Grafana.
• Collaborate with analysts and customers to understand requirements, troubleshoot issues, and document solutions.

Required Qualifications

• Practical Python programming skills and experience working with structured data.
• Experience developing data pipelines or applications that ingest, transform, and store data.
• Familiarity with containerization and continuous integration and delivery practices.
• Understanding of Kafka or comparable event-streaming concepts.
• Familiarity with data schemas, data quality checks, and managing changes to data formats.
• Foundational knowledge of cloud infrastructure, including compute, storage, networking, and access controls.
• Working knowledge of SQL, Git, and collaborative development.
• Strong problem-solving, documentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to participate in a hybrid schedule with on-site work in Carlsbad, CA.
• Authorization to work in the United States without employer sponsorship.

Mid-level candidates should be comfortable implementing and troubleshooting production workflows. Entry-level candidates may demonstrate these skills through internships, coursework, or substantial projects.

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with Apache Flink, Kafka Connect, Apache Iceberg, Athena, or AWS Batch.
• Experience with Kubernetes, Helm, Terraform, and GitHub Actions.
• Familiarity with Prometheus and Grafana.
• Experience with specification-driven development, including tools such as OpenSpec.
• Familiarity with Model Context Protocol (MCP) and preparing documented, governed datasets for access through MCP tools.
• Knowledge of network or satellite systems.

Experience with every technology in our stack is not required.

Why Join JetHead?

• Build data systems that support practical engineering and customer needs.
• Work directly with a collaborative technical team.
• Develop your skills across streaming data, cloud infrastructure, and modern development practices.

Benefits

• 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off

Compensation within the posted range will depend on relevant experience, technical skills, and the scope of the position.

If you enjoy building dependable data systems and solving technical problems, we would like to hear from you.

Job Type

Full-time

Pay: $90,000.00 - $190,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Ability to Commute:

• Carlsbad, CA 92008 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Carlsbad, CA 92008: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Carlsbad, CA 92008