BI/AI Data Engineer - Temporary Contract 4-6 months

We are seeking an experienced Azure Data Engineering Consultant for a 4-6 month engagement to design, implement, and optimize a modern data architecture leveraging Microsoft Azure technologies. The successful candidate will play a key role in building our Azure Data Lake and Synapse Analytics environment to support strategic Business Intelligence and AI initiatives. Key Responsibilities: • Lead the design and implementation of an Azure-based data platform, including Azure Data Lake Storage and Azure Synapse Analytics. • Build secure, scalable, and high-performance data ingestion pipelines (batch and streaming) from various on-premises and cloud data sources. • Develop and implement data models, ETL/ELT solutions, and optimize performance in the Azure environment. • Collaborate with BI, Data Science, and Cloud teams to deliver a unified, well-documented, and production-ready data lake and analytics platform. • Establish governance, best-practices, and documentation around security, data quality, lineage, and monitoring within Azure. • Provide guidance and knowledge transfer to existing IT and data teams. • Assist in integration of the data environment with downstream BI tools (such as Power BI). Required Skills & Experience: • Proven track record in designing and implementing Data Lake solutions with Azure Data Lake Storage (Gen2). • Deep experience with Azure Synapse Analytics (including dedicated SQL pools, serverless, integration). • Significant expertise in data ingestion, ETL/ELT (Azure Data Factory, Databricks, Synapse Pipelines). • Strong understanding of cloud security, networking, governance, and cost optimization principles within Azure. • Proficient in writing complex SQL and working with big data technologies. • Experience working with structured and unstructured data. • Excellent problem-solving, communication, and documentation skills. • Professional certification(s) in Azure (preferred). Education: • Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience) H-GAC is an equal opportunity/AA employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, or protected veteran status.