Senior Data Engineer (Must have Microsoft Fabric!)

The Senior Data Engineer role at MMD Services, Inc is a hands-on position focused on designing and prototyping data solutions across the Microsoft Azure stack. The role includes close alignment with C-suite stakeholders and ownership of key architecture decisions, with a specific requirement for Microsoft Fabric experience.

Location and Work Style

• Location: Downers Grove, IL (hybrid)
• Compensation: USD 65 - 85 per hour
• Minimum Experience: 5+ years

Key Responsibilities

• Design and architect data solutions across the Microsoft Azure stack, with direct, hands-on build responsibility rather than relying only on design documentation.
• Create prototypes and proofs of concept to validate architecture decisions prior to full-scale development.
• Translate C-suite requirements and business KPIs into clear, actionable technical user stories for the engineering team.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to a team of mid-level and junior engineers supported by an external vendor.
• Act as the primary technical liaison between developers and business or executive stakeholders.
• Own architecture decisions for Synapse and Data Factory pipelines, with a focus on scalability and performance.
• Contribute to the organization’s AI roadmap, including AI POCs, Microsoft Copilot rollout, and early agentic AI initiatives.
• Present technical strategy and progress updates to non-technical executive audiences.

Required Qualifications

• 5+ years of hands-on experience in data architecture or lead data engineering roles.
• Hands-on architecture and lead engineering experience, including the ability to design systems and build prototypes.
• Strong Microsoft Azure stack experience, including Azure Synapse and Data Factory.
• Experience with Microsoft Fabric.
• Strong Python and SQL skills (PySpark is a plus).
• Exceptional communication skills, including the ability to connect technical and non-technical audiences.
• Experience guiding and mentoring junior and mid-level engineers.

Technologies

• Microsoft Azure
• Azure Synapse
• Data Factory
• Microsoft Fabric
• Python
• SQL
• PySpark
• Databricks
• Microsoft Copilot

Benefits

• Flexible schedule

Nice to Have

• Databricks experience, especially helpful as a bridge if you do not yet have Fabric hands-on time.
• Interest or experience in AI, particularly agentic AI agents, Copilot, or similar tools.