Principal Data Engineer (RDU IT Data Engineering)

Job Title: Principal Data Engineer

Global Career Level: E

Introduction to role:
Are you ready to make a significant impact in the world of data engineering? As a Principal Data Engineer at Alexion, you will be at the forefront of developing cutting-edge data integration solutions that cater to the dynamic needs of our global data platforms. Your expertise will be pivotal in designing, implementing, and managing robust data pipelines and integration paradigms. Collaborate closely with diverse IT teams to support data-driven decision-making and strategic initiatives. Your mission will be to build scalable, reliable, and resilient data solutions, enhance data quality and observability, and ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations. Become an advocate for data governance and best practices, empowering Alexion to leverage its data assets for business innovation and success.

Accountabilities:
• Develop and maintain high-quality data integration solutions to support business needs and strategic initiatives.
• Collaborate with IT teams to identify data needs, structure problems, and deliver integrated information solutions.
• Ensure the quality and security of Alexion’s data through the implementation of best practices in data governance and compliance.
• Stay abreast of industry trends and emerging technologies to drive continuous improvement in data engineering practices.

Essential Skills/Experience:
• Master’s Degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in data engineering, data management, and analytics.
• Proven track record of delivering large-scale, scalable, secure, and robust data solutions in the pharmaceutical or life sciences industry.
• Strong experience with SQL, Python, ETL/ELT frameworks, and building data orchestration pipelines.
• Expertise in cloud architectures, particularly AWS.
• Proficiency in Snowflake and its features (resource monitors, RBAC controls, etc.), dbT, Fivetran, Apache Airflow.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Ability to effectively communicate complex data insights and solutions to diverse audiences, including senior leaders.
• Advanced understanding of data warehousing methodologies and data modeling techniques (Kimball, 3NF, Star Schema, …).
• Understanding of data governance, compliance standards (GDPR, HIPAA), and FAIR and TRUSTED data principles.

Desirable Skills/Experience:
• Extensive experience (5+ years) within the biotech/pharma industry.
• Familiarity with Kubernetes, Docker/containerization, and Terraform.
• Knowledge of data quality and observability tools and methodologies to enhance data reliability.

When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we unleash bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing medicines. In-person working gives us the platform we need to connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. That's why we work, on average, a minimum of three days per week from the office. But that doesn't mean we're not flexible. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility. Join us in our unique and ambitious world.

At AstraZeneca's Alexion division, you'll find yourself immersed in a vibrant environment where innovation meets purpose. Our commitment to rare disease biopharma places us at the cutting edge of biomedical science. With transparency and ethical practices at our core, we push scientific boundaries to translate complex biology into transformative medicines. Our global reach and resources empower us to address unmet needs in rare diseases, helping individuals live their best lives. Here, your career is not just a path but a journey toward making a difference where it truly counts.

Ready to embark on this exciting journey? Apply now to join our team!

AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements.