Data Engineer / Data Project Lead, Head Start

The Data Engineer / Data Project Lead provides technical leadership for data management and data engineering activities under the Head Start National Customer Service Improvement Project (CSIP). This role is responsible for leading the design, development, integration, maintenance, and continuous improvement of data pipelines, workflow and task management solutions, and analytical tools that support the Office of Head Start’s (OHS) grants management, oversight, and decision-making needs. 

The Data Engineer / Data Project Lead oversees data-focused staff assigned to the contract, ensures high-quality, secure, and sustainable data solutions, and applies user-centered, iterative approaches to data project delivery in alignment with federal policies and system requirements. 

Primary Responsibilities:

• Lead planning, execution, and delivery of data management and data engineering projects supporting OHS program oversight and operations. 
• Apply iterative and flexible project management approaches to prioritize work based on value, user needs, and level of effort. 
• Coordinate closely with the Project Manager to align data project priorities with contract deliverables and performance metrics. 
• Supervise and provide technical direction to data-focused staff, including Data Analysts, Data Visualization Specialists, Data Management Specialists, and Data Entry Support Specialists. 
• Design, build, and maintain data pipelines, integrations, and automation processes using federally compliant tools and platforms. 
• Support integration of data from federal systems such as HSES, AMS, GrantSolutions, and the TTA Hub into operational and analytical tools. 
• Maintain and enhance workflow and task tracking solutions, including Smartsheet-based tools (e.g., SmartFlow). 
• Support the use of the OHS Data Layer and cloud-based infrastructure to enable scalable, secure data processing and analysis. 
• Ensure data accuracy, integrity, and alignment across systems, mitigating competing sources of truth. 
• Implement and support data quality assurance, validation processes, and governance practices appropriate for federal environments. 
• Ensure documentation of data structures, pipelines, and processes to support knowledge transfer and continuity. 
• Lead development of data products, dashboards, reports, and automated outputs that support grants management, monitoring, and leadership decision-making. 
• Support generation of standardized documents and correspondence through automated data integration where appropriate. 
• Enable data-informed decision-making through improved access to timely, relevant, and well-structured data. 
• Analyze data workflows and business processes to identify opportunities for efficiency, automation, and improvement. 
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, data dictionaries, process documentation, and handoff materials. 
• Support the development of training materials and guidance to promote consistent use of data tools and solutions. 
• Respond to data-related inquiries and support ad hoc and recurring data requests from OHS staff and leadership. 
• Participate in briefings, meetings, and planning sessions related to data management initiatives. 
• Support coordination across technical and programmatic teams to ensure solutions align with operational needs. 

Required Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information systems, data science, or a related field from an accredited institution. 
• 10+ years of progressively responsible post-baccalaureate professional experience in data engineering, data management, or related technical roles. 
• 3+ years of supervisory or technical team leadership experience. 
• 3+ years of experience designing and managing complex, high-profile, multi-faceted data projects. 
• 3+ years of experience with data integration, ETL processes, database design, and data pipelines. 
• 1+ years of experience in early childhood education and/or Head Start programs. 
• 1+ years of experience with federal systems such as HSES, AMS, GrantSolutions, and the TTA Hub into operational and analytical tools. 
• US government issued security clearance required (will be initiated upon hire) 
• Valid driver’s license and ability to pass an MVR check. 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience supporting federal information systems or federal grant programs. 
• Experience in applying AI or advanced analytics in data pipelines. 
• Demonstrated ability to communicate technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences. 
• Proven ability to address team and stakeholder issues and support problem resolution. 
• Proficiency in SQL and at least one programming language (e.g., Python). 
• Experience with APIs, data integration, and automation tools. 
• Experience with cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure). 
• Knowledge of data governance, security, and federal information system requirements. 
• Familiarity with project management methodologies; Agile/Scrum experience preferred. 

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