Data Platform Engineer

Remote Independent Data Engineer - Databricks, Python/Java (Active IRS MBI Clearance)

Arka Services LLC is seeking an independent, highly experienced Data Engineer for a long-term, remote engagement on a critical federal government project supporting tax administration systems. This is a high-impact, 1099 independent contractor role that requires specialized federal experience and an active IRS Medium Background Investigation (MBI) clearance.

• Classification: Independent Contractor (1099)
• Location: 100% Remote (Must work independently with own equipment)
• Duration: Long-term project with strong potential for extension
• Rate: $75/hour (1099 basis), commensurate with experience and active clearance status.

• The consultant will function as an autonomous Data Engineer, responsible for designing, building, and optimizing production-ready data pipelines on a modern cloud platform.
• ETL/ELT Development: Design, develop, and optimize scalable data pipelines and Extract, Transform, Load (ETL) processes using Databricks and Spark.
• Code Implementation: Write, test, and deploy production-grade code primarily using Python (PySpark) and/or Java for data ingestion, transformation, and business logic implementation.
• Workflow Analysis & Design: Conduct independent analysis of ETL processes, data transformation workflows, and source-to-target data mapping to architect efficient solutions.
• Documentation: Deliver comprehensive technical documentation, including data models, data flow diagrams, and process specifications.
• Agile Collaboration: Participate in all Agile/Scrum ceremonies and provide status updates via Jira.
• Compliance: Apply prior knowledge of IRS systems and federal standards to ensure all data engineering solutions are compliant and secure.

• U.S. Citizenship: Required by federal law for this contract.
• Active IRS MBI Clearance: This clearance must be active and in good standing.
• Prior IRS Systems Experience: Demonstrated experience working with IRS systems and processes is a prerequisite.
• Independent Consultant Expertise: Proven track of successfully operating as an independent contractor (1099) on federal IT projects.

• Platform Expertise (Must-Have): Extensive, hands-on experience with the Databricks platform, including notebooks, Delta Lake, and optimizing Spark jobs.
• Advanced Programming: Strong proficiency in Python (including PySpark) and/or Java for complex data engineering and application development tasks.
• ETL Proficiency: Expert experience in designing, building, and maintaining robust data pipelines and complex flat file processing systems.
• Methodology: Strong understanding of Agile/Scrum practices and practical experience with Jira.
• SQL: Advanced ability to write complex SQL queries for data profiling, transformation logic, and manipulation.
• Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities to troubleshoot and optimize large-scale data processing environments.

Arka Services LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, status as a protected veteran, or status as an individual with a disability.

Job Type: Contract

Pay: $65.00 - $75.00 per hour

Application Question(s):

• Do you have any previous experience with Federal Government - IRS Project?

Work Location: Remote