Lead Data Engineer

One of our clients in government domain is seeking a Lead Data Engineer to support reporting, analytics, and data warehouse efforts following a recent tax accounting system migration. This role is hands on and delivery focused, with responsibility for refining existing data definitions, developing reports, and supporting application migration efforts. In addition to technical responsibilities, this role will function as a business analyst when needed, working directly with business SMEs to uncover, validate, and clarify data definitions, rules, and logic. Lead Data Engineer will partner closely with business analysts, developers, and the IT Project Manager to ensure shared and accurate understanding of data across reporting and application teams. Lead Data Engineer On-Site Columbus, OH 43215 Long Term Contract (Contract with Possible Extension or Hire) Responsibilities: Lead refinement, validation, and ongoing documentation of the existing enterprise data dictionary. Work directly with business SMEs to elicit, clarify, and confirm data definitions, calculations, and business rules. Function as a business analyst when needed to bridge gaps between business understanding and technical implementation. Support and collaborate with business analysts by validating data logic and ensuring consistency across requirements, reports, and applications. Design, develop, and maintain reports using Power BI and SSRS. Assist with conversion and redevelopment of reports impacted by application migrations. Provide advanced SQL Server expertise including complex queries, functions, and stored procedures. Support data warehouse development and optimization including indexing strategies. Query system tables and analyze performance and data behavior to support reporting and application needs. Translate business logic into clear, actionable technical specifications for reporting and analytics. Identify data quality issues and partner with technical teams to define and implement resolutions. Document data lineage, transformations, and report logic clearly and consistently. Communicate progress, risks, and data related issues to the IT Project Manager. Perform other related duties as assigned. Required Skills: 7 years of Experience in Professional data analysis or business intelligence. Demonstrated experience working in existing production environments under time constraints. Advanced SQL Server knowledge performance tuning and table partitioning. Demonstrated experience with Power BI and SSRS. Strong experience working with data warehouses. Demonstrated experience eliciting and documenting requirements directly from business stakeholders. Ability to work directly with SMEs, business analysts, developers, and project managers. High level of attention to detail and strong documentation skills. Highly Desired Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills. Experience supporting financial, tax, or property related systems. Experience assisting with system migrations or large-scale report conversions. Experience independently validating data logic and resolving ambiguity. Experience working in public sector or in highly visible environments.