Data Engineer (8738)

Job Description Morton is seeking a Data Engineer for our client in Richmond, VA. The Data Engineer II, Database Engineering role is a mid-level position responsible for designing, developing, and supporting scalable, high-performance database solutions that power business applications, analytics, and data integrations. This role requires advanced SQL expertise, strong relational data modeling skills, and the ability to independently deliver complex database solutions. While this position does not own enterprise-level database administration or platform strategy, it plays a key role in improving database development standards, performance, and reliability across the organization. Key Responsibilities Database Design & Development • Design and implement complex relational database solutions for operational and analytical use cases • Translate business and technical requirements into well-structured database designs and data models • Develop advanced database objects, including stored procedures, functions, views, and optimized schemas • Review and enhance existing database designs for performance, scalability, and maintainability • Participate in database design discussions and technical solution reviews SQL Development & Performance Optimization • Write, optimize, and maintain complex SQL queries handling large data volumes • Investigate and resolve query-level and workload performance issues • Apply indexing strategies, execution plan analysis, and query refactoring techniques • Review SQL code from peers and provide actionable feedback • Mentor engineers on SQL best practices, debugging, and optimization techniques • Serve as an escalation point for complex SQL development issues • Help establish and reinforce SQL development standards Data Integration & ETL • Design and implement reliable ETL and data integration workflows • Ensure data quality, accuracy, and consistency across integrated systems • Partner with stakeholders to refine data requirements and improve accessibility • Provide guidance on data integration patterns and approaches Internal Tools & Automation • Build and maintain lightweight internal tools to support database and data operations • Assist in automating repeatable data-related tasks and workflows AI-Assisted Development • Leverage AI-assisted development tools to improve efficiency and code quality • Validate, test, and refine AI-generated outputs to meet engineering standards • Share effective AI-assisted development techniques with team members Documentation & Collaboration • Create and maintain clear documentation for database designs, data flows, and processes • Collaborate with data engineers, software engineers, integration teams, and business partners • Communicate technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences Monitoring & Support • Monitor scheduled database jobs and data processes • Respond to support requests through Jira Service Management and Jira Cloud • Troubleshoot data-related issues and recommend preventative improvements • Participate in an on-call rotation for after-hours, weekend, and holiday support • Communicate clearly with stakeholders and project managers on support requests • Comply with applicable security and compliance procedures • Perform other duties as assigned Qualifications Skills & Experience • 5+ years of experience in SQL development and database engineering • Advanced SQL expertise, including performance tuning and troubleshooting • Strong hands-on experience with Microsoft SQL Server • Deep understanding of relational data modeling and database design principles • Experience designing and maintaining ETL or data integration workflows • Experience conducting peer code reviews and providing technical guidance • Proficiency with source control systems (e.g., Git) • Familiarity with CI/CD concepts for database deployments • Experience working in Agile or DevOps environments • Knowledge of database administration fundamentals (backup, recovery, security) • Experience with SQL Server upgrades preferred • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills • Demonstrated ability to use AI-assisted development tools responsibly Additional Requirements • Must be eligible to work in the United States • Our client does not currently sponsor employment authorization • Successful candidates must pass a background check and drug screening • Equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, inclusion, and continuous learning Education • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field OR • 4–6 years of equivalent professional experience • A combination of education and experience will be considered