Backend/Data Engineers

Engage Backend/Data Engineers on Your Team

Backend/data engineers are instrumental in creating and deploying systems that capture, process, and transform raw data into meaningful insights that data scientists and business analysts can leverage for a range of applications. The success of these systems lies in the ability to provide businesses with accessible data, enabling them to evaluate their performance and make informed decisions. Backend/data engineers are also responsible for using cutting-edge technologies to construct the necessary backend components of websites. To learn more about the distinction between data engineers and software engineers, check out this blog post.

A fundamental aspect of the Backend/Data Engineer role is constructing the foundation of a software application. This involves working collaboratively with various professionals, including Front-end Developers, Testers, Product Managers, and Principal Architects. The ever-increasing significance of data in the business world has elevated the demand for skilled Backend/Data Engineers. Don’t hesitate to apply for remote Backend/Data Engineer positions, as they present promising career advancement opportunities.

What Does Backend/Data Engineering Involve?

The proliferation of technology-driven businesses has fostered a surge in demand for backend and data developers. Organisations are increasingly relying on remote backend and data professionals to enhance software scalability and mitigate security risks. The advent of artificial intelligence and machine learning has opened up new opportunities for ambitious entrepreneurs keen on leveraging these innovations to supply their customers’ growing needs. With innovative products becoming more prevalent, backend and data developers have access to an abundance of prospects and are positioned to make the most of them.

As more businesses recognise the potential of Big Data to capture valuable insights, the demand for data-focused roles continues to climb. This is particularly true for engineers with expertise in data management. Companies are seeking capable backend/data engineers who can manage vast amounts of intricate data to deliver meaningful business insights. The potential earnings for a backend/data engineer have increased in tandem with the requirements of high proficiency and expertise in Big Data.

What are the Responsibilities of a Backend/Data Engineer?

The following entails the primary duties of a remote backend/data engineer position.

• Establishing, Integrating, and Maintaining Databases
• Employing Backend Frameworks for Server-side Application Development
• Utilising Web Hosting Services, Integrating Cloud Computing, and Employing Server-side Programming Languages
• Developing, Implementing, and Maintaining Content Management Systems
• API Integration
• Maintaining Security Settings to Prevent Hacking
• Generating Data and Analytics for Reporting
• Employing Technology for Website Files and Database Backup and Restoration while Utilising Modern Security and Governance Techniques
• Developing Comprehensive Designs Based on Complex Technical and Functional Specifications
• Data can be stored through various technologies such as Hadoop, NoSQL, among others.
• Creating Models and Identifying Hidden Patterns within Data Segments
• Integrating Data Management Approaches with Existing Organisational Structures
• Assisting in Establishing a Robust Infrastructure and Facilitating Seamless Third-party Integrations

Ways to Secure a Position as a Backend/Data Engineer

Despite the considerable skills and aptitudes needed for these programming positions, individuals with genuine passion for the subject matter and proficiency in fulfilling some of the mentioned tasks may be eligible to obtain remote backend/data engineering employment opportunities.

Many individuals looking to gain the necessary skills required for a career as a backend or data engineer start by attending college. An education in computer science can serve as a strong foundation and provide evidence of your qualifications. However, pursuing a college degree can be expensive and time-consuming, and if your grades in high school were inadequate, you may not have access to a college that will boost your chances in the backend/data engineering employment market.

An option to a traditional three or four-year degree program is to participate in a boot camp program. These programs can be attended in-person or virtually and concentrate on furnishing the requisite know-how and skills concerning the programming languages associated with backend or data engineering functions. The benefit of this approach is that it can be more economical and prompt than embarking on a degree program. Nonetheless, the duration and expense of the program may vary based on the boot camp’s specifications.

Irrespective of the route taken to pursue a profession as a remote backend/data engineer, attaining numerous job openings and a promising future in the field is guaranteed.

The Need for Backend/Data Engineer Proficiencies

To build a thriving career as a backend/data engineer, the first step is to acquire the requisite aptitudes and capabilities. A crucial element is to evaluate each of the technical skills needed to succeed in acquiring high-paying employment opportunities.

1. Python

   If you aspire to become a remote backend/data engineer, refining your Python programming abilities is vital. Python functions as a universally utilized computer language, and it’s easy to see why. It has been integrated into a wide array of sectors, including finance, healthcare, and tourism, and can handle both basic and complex web applications. Python’s syntax has empowered businesses such as Spotify, Instagram, Disqus, and Dropbox to establish influential programs. Hence, enhancing your Python prowess is an indispensable element in excelling as a remote backend/data engineer.

2. Java

   Java is an object-oriented, high-performance programming language designed for backend development. Typically, it is developed using Integrated Development Environment (IDE) and later compiled into bytecode, a low-level language that can be interpreted by software interpreters rather than humans, resulting in a more dependable system. On the contrary, JavaScript is frequently executed in its original syntax employing a JavaScript engine. Overall, Java is more adept in tackling intricate programming tasks compared to its front-end counterpart. Additionally, it can be deployed on any system with a Java Virtual Machine, making it an ideal choice for backend and data engineering. As a result, possessing Java skills during remote backend/data engineer interviews can be invaluable.

3. PHP

   PHP (Hypertext Preprocessor) is a commonly utilized server-side scripting language. Unlike Python and Java, it does not mandate compilation and performs scripts during runtime to automate routine tasks or improve an application’s performance. Possessing knowledge of PHP can be advantageous for aspiring programmers and help in acquiring optimal roles in backend or data engineering, even without the need to master other major programming languages.

4. SQL

   Following its official adoption as an industry-wide standard by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) in 1986, Structured Query Language (SQL) has become the primary language employed by online backend developers to access and manage relational databases. SQL enables programmers to proficiently add and delete entries, conduct database searches, establish new tables and stored procedures, and assign permissions to tables and processes. Understanding SQL is vital if one wishes to work with relational databases, which is a prerequisite for backend/data engineer roles. SQL is a noteworthy outlier to the notion that technology can become obsolete quickly due to its long-standing status as a widely recognized industry standard.

5. Git

   Git is a powerful and immensely popular version control system that is perfect for contemporary development. It is continuously advancing and is open-source, created by the same individual who developed the Linux operating system. With a functional code copy, every developer has instant access to the entire modification history, making it convenient to edit or revert code. Git is a robust, adaptable, and secure solution for online backend development.

6. Front-end

   No list of essential proficiencies for a backend/data engineer would be comprehensive without citing three crucial programming languages: HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Although these languages are typically utilized for front-end development, a fundamental grasp of them can prove advantageous for those pursuing backend/data engineering professions. These three languages essentially govern every aspect of the user experience, including graphics, scrolling menus, and page text. It may be pondered how these front-end skills can be relevant to a career in backend/data engineering. In actuality, the dissimilarity between the two roles is not significant. Even when developers specialize in either front-end or backend development, there still exists a considerable overlap between the two fields. If your ambitions include securing remote backend/data engineer employment opportunities, possessing a comprehensive understanding of these competencies is essential.

7. Hadoop and Spark

   The Apache Hadoop software library is a framework that employs fundamental programming principles to accomplish the distributed processing of vast datasets across various computing devices. Its versatility permits it to scale from a single server to thousands of machines, each with its individual processing and storage capabilities. This framework is supported by several programming languages, including Python, Scala, Java, and R. Although Hadoop is a potent technology for handling the copious amounts of data generated presently, it does have its share of drawbacks, such as increased processing time and a prerequisite for a high level of coding proficiency. Apache Spark is a data processing engine that provides stream processing, enabling real-time input and output of data.

8. Data warehouse

   A data warehouse functions as an organised and retrievable relational database system that furnishes a long-term perspective on data across extended periods. As opposed to a database that receives real-time data updates to reflect the most current information. As a result, it is critical for backend/data engineering candidates to showcase their proficiency with popular data warehousing systems such as Amazon Web Services and Amazon Redshift. In fact, most backend/data engineering roles mandate familiarity with AWS.

9. Azure

   Microsoft Azure is progressively becoming a favoured cloud computing platform for businesses and organisations of all sizes desiring to construct large-scale data analytics applications. Azure streamlines the setup and maintenance of servers and applications with its integrated analytics solution, which is easy to implement. Additionally, developers have access to an extensive range of pre-built services, ranging from data storage to robust machine learning, to maximise their application’s potential. As a result, more data engineers are specializing in the Microsoft Azure platform.

What are the steps to land a remote backend/data engineer job?

Upon assessing the skill prerequisites for a thriving remote backend and data engineering role, it is crucial to acknowledge that the most crucial aspect is practice. As the industry expands and becomes more lucrative, a surge in the number of individuals joining the field is expected, resulting in a highly competitive environment. To outperform your competition and establish a thriving career, keeping abreast of the latest industry developments and trends is imperative. Hence, allocate enough time for practice and remain informed about the evolving landscape.

Choosing to work with Works can unlock numerous opportunities for backend and data engineers seeking a career-defining role. Our remote backend and data engineering jobs provide you with the chance to sharpen your skills by collaborating with skilled professionals on challenging technical assignments. Moreover, you will become a member of a global network of elite backend and data engineers, with potential prospects of securing long-term, full-time employment, offering higher salary prospects and career growth opportunities.

Job Details

Job Responsibilities

• Engage with diverse stakeholders to evaluate the organization’s requirements.
• Maintain a stable server with zero downtime.
• Develop reusable and scalable code libraries.
• Devise, build, and administer data architectures systematically.
• Examine and systematise raw data to prepare for predictive and prescriptive modelling.
• Establish and administer data pipelines and systems.
• Enhance data quality, reliability, and security.
• Plan and implement solutions for data storage.
• Perform complex data analysis and prepare reports.
• Develop analytical tools and algorithms that utilise data pipelines.
• Track essential business performance indicators and offer pertinent insights.

Requirements

• A degree in Data Science/Engineering or Computer Science (or equivalent experience) at Bachelor’s or Master’s level is mandatory.
• A minimum of three years of experience as a data engineer or in a related role is necessary.
• Familiarity with serverless technologies like Azure Functions, AWS Lambda, and similar tools.
• Proficiency in programming languages like Python, Java, Scala, and other relevant languages.
• Comprehension of AI/ML algorithms and their functioning.
• Proficiency in stream processing technologies including Spark structured streaming, Azure Stream Analytics, and similar tools.
• Expertise in big data technologies like Hadoop and Spark.
• Prior experience with data pipelines/ETL pipelines.
• Thorough knowledge of APIs and client SDKs.
• Expertise in code versioning technologies like Git, Mercurial, or SVN.
• Proficiency in SQL/NoSQL database systems.
• Fluency in English is essential for effective communication.
• Work full-time (40 hours weekly) with a 4-hour overlap with US time zones.

Desired qualifications

• Experience with SASS and LESS server-side.
• Thorough grasp of computer science concepts such as data structures and algorithms, distributed systems, and related topics.
• Familiarity with data warehousing solutions.
• Knowledge of best practices for DevOps and AWS infrastructure.
• Mastery of front-end technologies like JavaScript, HTML5, and CSS3 is necessary.
• Familiarity with Agile Scrum methodologies.
• Exceptional organizational and interpersonal skills.