AWS Pyspark Tech Lead

Senior Data Engineer / Technical Lead – AWS Glue & Spark Optimization

Location: Remote
Experience: 8–12 years

About Cognizant

Cognizant is a leading global professional services company, helping organizations modernize technology, reimagine processes, and transform experiences. With deep expertise in cloud, data engineering, and AI, we empower enterprises to unlock value from their data and accelerate innovation.

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Data Engineer / Technical Lead with strong expertise in AWS data services and Spark optimization.

In this role, you will design, optimize, and manage scalable data pipelines using AWS Glue, PySpark, and Amazon S3, while driving DevOps practices and ensuring high-performance data processing solutions that power analytics and business insights.

Key Responsibilities

Data Engineering & Pipeline Development

• Design and develop scalable ETL pipelines using AWS Glue, PySpark, and AWS Glue Studio
• Automate data extraction, transformation, and loading processes for improved data accessibility and usability
• Build and maintain efficient data models and transformation frameworks

Spark & Performance Optimization

• Optimize Apache Spark and PySpark workloads for performance, scalability, and cost efficiency
• Implement tuning strategies for large-scale distributed data processing

AWS Platform & Data Management

• Manage AWS Glue Catalog to maintain structured and discoverable metadata
• Oversee Amazon S3 storage solutions ensuring secure, scalable, and efficient data management
• Implement best practices for data lifecycle management and storage optimization

DevOps & Automation

• Apply AWS DevOps practices to streamline CI/CD, deployment, and operations
• Enable automation for pipeline orchestration, monitoring, and releases
• Ensure integration with enterprise systems and tools

Governance, Security & Compliance

• Ensure adherence to data security, privacy, and compliance standards
• Implement access controls, auditing, and governance policies across data platforms

Collaboration & Leadership

• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to engineering teams
• Foster a culture of collaboration, knowledge sharing, and continuous improvement
• Partner with stakeholders to translate business needs into scalable technical solutions

Documentation & Quality

• Maintain comprehensive documentation of data processes, pipelines, and architectures
• Support transparency, troubleshooting, and long-term knowledge retention

Required Qualifications

• Strong experience in AWS Glue (ETL, Studio, Catalog) and data pipeline development
• Hands-on expertise in Apache Spark / PySpark optimization
• Proficiency in Python, SQL, and data modeling concepts
• Experience managing data storage in Amazon S3
• Solid understanding of AWS DevOps practices and automation frameworks
• Proven ability to build scalable, high-performance data solutions
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with AWS Data Pipeline or modern orchestration frameworks
• Familiarity with CI/CD and configuration management tools
• Knowledge of data governance and regulatory compliance frameworks
• Strong background in root cause analysis and defect management
• Experience working in enterprise-scale, hybrid environments

Leadership & Professional Skills

• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement capabilities
• Ability to drive execution excellence and innovation
• Demonstrated accountability and results orientation
• Collaborative mindset with ability to build trust and influence teams
• Adaptability to drive change and continuous improvement

Compensation

• Base Salary Range: $120,000 – $135,000 per year
• Final compensation will be based on experience, skills, and location
• Eligible for performance-based bonuses and incentive compensation

Benefits

Cognizant offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and career growth:

• Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Financial Security: 401(k) with company match, life and disability insurance
• Time Off: Generous PTO, paid holidays, and parental leave
• Learning & Development: Access to certifications, training programs, and career advancement opportunities
• Flexible Work Model: Hybrid setup supporting work-life balance
• Employee Programs: Wellness initiatives, employee resource groups, and recognition programs

Why Join Cognizant?

• Work on modern cloud data platforms and large-scale data engineering initiatives
• Collaborate with global clients and high-performing teams
• Accelerate your career in a cloud-first, data-driven environment
• Be part of a culture that values innovation, inclusion, and impact