# Principal Data Engineer
## About the Role
Valcon is seeking a Principal Data Engineer to serve as a subject matter authority for clients and colleagues, combining deep technical expertise with strategic insight. In this role, you’ll look beyond individual projects to shape data engineering standards, architectures, delivery quality, and technical direction across a broad portfolio.
As part of Valcon’s focus on Data & AI Strategy and data-driven business transformation, you’ll design complex data architectures, guide multiple projects, translate market developments into new tools and standards, mentor senior specialists and consultants, and act as a trusted advisor to clients on complex data and technology challenges.
## Key Responsibilities
*** Design complex data architectures and oversee solution quality across multiple projects.**
*** Connect different technical disciplines to maximize value for clients.**
*** Set technical standards and influence how Valcon approaches data engineering.**
*** Monitor developments in the data engineering and technology market and translate relevant developments into new tools, methods, and standards.**
*** Contribute to the technical strategy and direction of the organization.**
*** Mentor senior specialists and consultants.**
*** Deliver expert training and coaching to support professional development.**
*** Lead knowledge-sharing initiatives and actively share data engineering best practices.**
*** Participate in strategic client sessions and help frame complex business and technology challenges.**
*** Advise clients on solution directions and identify opportunities where Valcon can add value.**
*** Manage high-complexity technical environments and diverse stakeholder groups.**
*** Support commercial opportunities with substantive technical expertise.**
*** Share knowledge through professional events, publications, and other expert channels.**
## Required Qualifications
*** Completed technical bachelor's or master's degree.**
*** 5+ years of experience in data engineering, including experience in a leading or architect role.**
*** Expertise in modern data platform technologies such as Azure, AWS, Databricks, and Snowflake.**
*** Strong coding experience with Python and SQL.**
*** Experience leading high-complexity environments.**
*** Experience managing diverse stakeholders.**
*** Strong communication skills and ability to persuasively advise on solution directions.**
*** Ability to recognize commercial opportunities and provide substantive technical support.**
*** Good command of Dutch and English.**
*** Already residing in the Netherlands.**
*** Valid work permit for the Netherlands.**
## Preferred Qualifications
*** Experience actively sharing technical best practices across an organization.**
*** Experience mentoring senior technical professionals and consultants.**
*** Experience speaking at professional events or writing technical publications.**
## Skills & Competencies
*** Data engineering**
*** Data architecture**
*** Data platform technology**
*** Python**
*** SQL**
*** Azure**
*** AWS**
*** Databricks**
*** Snowflake**
*** Technical strategy**
*** Solution architecture**
*** Technical leadership**
*** Stakeholder management**
*** Mentorship and coaching**
*** Knowledge sharing**
*** Standardization**
*** Innovation**
*** Strategic consulting**
*** Client advisory**
*** Commercial awareness**
*** Communication and presentation**
## Education & Experience
*Education*
*** Completed technical bachelor's or master's degree.**
*Experience*
*** 5+ years of data engineering experience.**
*** Experience in a leading or architect role.**
*** Experience with modern data platforms including Azure, AWS, Databricks, and Snowflake.**
*** Experience leading high-complexity environments and managing diverse stakeholders.**
## Work Arrangement & Schedule
*** Location: Netherlands.**
*** Candidates must already reside in the Netherlands and hold a valid work permit.**
*** Remote work from abroad is available for 10 days per year.**
*** The company emphasizes work-life balance and offers options including sabbaticals and additional leave.**
## Compensation & Benefits
*** Competitive and transparent salary according to Valcon's pay structure.**
*** Annual bonus of up to 4 months' salary, depending on seniority level, individual performance, and company results.**
*** Monthly expense allowance of €95.**
*** Company car or mobility budget.**
*** Options for sabbatical or additional holidays.**
*** Affordable sports membership covering 50 different sports through more than 10,000 partners.**
*** Remote work from abroad for 10 days per year.**
*** Professional peer network and community.**
*** Professional and social events.**
## About Valcon
Valcon focuses on Data & AI Strategy and data-driven business transformation, placing data at the center of client engagements. The company combines technical expertise, strategic insight, innovation, and consulting to help clients develop and improve data-driven solutions.
## Compliance / Additional Information
*** Dutch and English language proficiency is required.**
*** Applicants must reside in the Netherlands and hold a valid work permit.**
