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Having a well-composed resume is key in getting a good data engineering job. While projects and database experience are the main attraction, qualified data engineers also need to put together their skills and achievements in a captivating package in order to entice potential employers.
With the year-to-year growth of data engineer jobs at a rate of over 30%, it’s fast becoming a competitive field, and having a good resume could make the difference between getting an interview or being placed at the bottom of the pile.
A data engineer is responsible for designing, building, and maintaining data processing systems, the infrastructure that collects and stores large volumes of data. They develop automated data pipelines, handle ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) processes, and manage database and distributed systems. Data engineers use tools such as Python, Apache Airflow, and cloud platforms like AWS or Google Cloud to manage complex data systems, playing an important role in an organization’s data-driven processes. So a good data engineering resume must highlight these skills so that a potential employer will keep reading.
Since there are so many data engineers working across a number of industries, many jobs require disparate skills and backgrounds for each position. With all these facets to consider, it may be hard to figure out where to start when listing all your info in your resume. No worries - this article will help you navigate each section of a data engineer resume and figure out a unique way to let yourself shine through.
Everyone should have their full details at the beginning of their resume, as specified below. Make sure that this information is accurate, up-to-date, and easily accessible:
A resume headline is also known as a resume title. It is simply a summary of you in one line. Typically placed at the very top of your resume, a resume headline gives potential employers a tagline of who you are as a data engineer.
Writing a captivating and short resume title should aim to make readers want to continue perusing your resume. The resume headline should ideally be one line (or a maximum of two!) and should highlight the main requirements for the job application.
Here are 3 data engineer resume headline examples:
Data Engineer Resume Headline Example #1
Computer Science Graduate with Java and MySQL Proficiency | Aspiring Data Warehousing and Security Solution Engineer
Data Engineer Resume Headline Example #2
AWS-Certified Data Engineer | Specializing in Pipeline Development | Amazon S3 & Redshift
Data Engineer Resume Headline Example #3
Data Warehouse Architect | Databricks and CDMP Certified | Container Orchestration and Advanced Analytics Specialist
What are your long-term career goals? A resume objective section aims to answer this question and highlight some of your achievements and skills. It is useful to include this section if you are thinking of changing industries or finding a specific kind of job.
The resume objective section is usually a few sentences and should also include a few adjectives about yourself (e.g., team player, focused). You should also mention your appropriate experience related to data engineering. Don’t forget to use some of the keywords from the job description of the opening position here.
The resume objective can replace the resume summary section. If so, be sure to emphasize some of your projects and skills here.
Here are some examples of data engineer resume objectives:
Data Engineer Resume Objective Example #1
Motivated junior data engineer with internship experience seeking to put my MySQL and PostgreSQL skills to the test in a dynamic big data environment. Proficient in real-time data ingestion and optimizing, I’m eager to contribute to an innovative big data team.
Data Engineer Resume Objective Example #2
I’m a GCP-Certified Cloud Data Engineer with extensive experience in PostgreSQL, BigQuery, and Dataproc. Specializing in indexing and partitioning for optimized data performance, I am seeking to transition into the finance industry to leverage my technical skills and analytical mindset. I’m looking to improve data accessibility to a large global finance team.
Data Engineer Resume Objective Example #3
I’m a results-focused Director of Data Engineering with extensive experience in ETL and pipeline development and team building across departments. Oracle and MongoDB Certified, I’m proficient in Kubernetes for managing scalable data architectures for large healthcare networks. I am seeking to lead data initiatives that streamline data processes while fostering collaboration and growth within cross-functional teams.
A data engineer resume is nothing without its work experience section. It demonstrates the practical application of your technical skills and knowledge in real-world scenarios.
Since data engineering revolves around complex problem-solving, hands-on experience allows you to showcase your ability to design, implement, and optimize data pipelines, manage databases, and utilize various data technologies effectively. Moreover, work experience provides insight into collaboration with different teams, highlighting your ability to communicate technical concepts to non-technical colleagues. Employers value this experience as it reflects a candidate's adaptability, critical thinking, and understanding of industry best practices.
Some data engineering resumes separate work experience into general responsibilities and specific projects. Both layouts are valid - just make sure when highlighting personal or open-source projects that they demonstrate expertise relevant to the applying job.
Here are some examples of a well-written data engineer work experience section:
Data Engineer Resume - Work Experience - Example #1
Data Engineering Intern, XYZ Shopping Platform, June 2024 to September 2024
Data Engineer Resume - Work Experience - Example #2
ETL Engineer, ABC Technology, October 2022 to present
Projects:
Data Engineer Resume - Work Experience - Example #3
Senior Azure Cloud Engineer, Federal Government, February 2017 to Present
Writing a data engineer resume with no formal experience can be challenging, but consider it an opportunity to highlight your relevant skills and any practical experience you've gained through projects or coursework.
1) Highlight relevant coursework and projects in computer science or related fields.
Start by emphasizing your educational background in fields such as computer science, data science, or information technology. List any coursework that directly relates to the job for which you are applying.
2) Emphasize transferable skills such as problem-solving and data analysis
Include a skills section that not only showcases your proficiency in programming languages and database management but also soft skills like data analysis and clear communication. Look over the job description to see what non-technical skills you can bring to the table.
3) Include relevant certifications and training programs.
Additionally, consider incorporating any certifications and training projects where you utilized analytical or technical skills relevant to data engineering. If you’ve completed any projects—whether as part of your studies or independently—be sure to detail them in a dedicated section, describing your role, the technologies used, and the outcomes achieved.
The skills section of a data engineer resume is arguably the most important component because it provides a concise overview of your technical capabilities and relevant expertise.
Data engineering requires proficiency in various tools and technologies, such as SQL, Python, and cloud platforms. A well-crafted skills section allows potential employers to quickly assess whether your qualifications are a match for the job.
This section not only highlights essential hard skills but also showcases important soft skills like analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication, which are crucial for collaboration in cross-functional teams. Ultimately, a strong skills section will position you as the most suitable fit for the role, so make sure it’s clear and concise.
Here are some common hard and soft skills for your data engineer resume:
Project and Management Skills:
Technical Data Engineer Skills:
Soft Skills:
While perhaps not as vital as your software skills and project experience, the education section of your data engineer resume is important as it establishes your foundational knowledge and academic credentials.
This section demonstrates your formal training, which is critical for understanding data structures, algorithms, and programming concepts. To list this section properly, include the degree you earned, the name of the school, and the graduation date.
If applicable, you can also highlight relevant coursework, projects, or academic honours that show off just how well-prepared you are for a data engineering role. Moreover, employers often value candidates with relevant educational credentials, which show you have a solid base of knowledge and can hit the ground running in your new role.
Here’s an example of how to write an education section on your data engineer resume:
Data Engineer Resume - Education Example #1
Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering
University of Southern California, 2020-2024
If you haven't graduated yet but are still pursuing a degree, you can adapt the education section on your resume to reflect your current academic status. Here's a guide on how to do that:
Data Engineer Resume - Education Example #2
Master of Science in Computer Engineering
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Anticipated Graduation May 2025
It’s an understatement to say there are lots of different kinds of certifications for data engineers. And while some prospective employers focus more on projects and work experience, there are also many who see certifications as a sign of a qualified candidate.
Common certifications include those from cloud providers (AWS Certified Data Analytics and Google Professional Data Engineer), those emphasizing skills in specific platforms and databases (Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Engineer Associate or IBM Certified Data Engineer), and those demonstrating a broader understanding of industry-recognized practices (Certified Data Management Professional—CDMP).
Most job descriptions should indicate what certifications are required but listing all your certificates will validate your technical skills and signal a commitment to professional development. Moreover, in a competitive job market, certifications can set you apart as a candidate and get your foot in the door.
Example Data Engineer Certifications:
Be aware of the three different resume formats and choose the one that suits your needs:
It’s important to use keywords from the job description, as many large companies use an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) for hiring. An ATS is a software used by employers to scan, rate, and organize resumes submitted for their positions. It scans applications looking for keywords, specific skills, and experience that are important to the job.
Those keywords are usually mentioned in the job listing, sometimes more than once, so applicants should take note of which ones to include on their resumes for a high-rated ATS.
Consider the following steps when incorporating keywords:
1) Read the job description
Example: “Seeking an AWS-Certified Data Engineer to develop scalable data pipelines and optimize architectures that enhance data accessibility and support our business intelligence initiatives.”
2) Analyze the keywords mentioned.
Keywords: AWS, develop scalable data pipelines, optimize architectures, enhance data accessibility, and business intelligence initiatives.
3) Craft your sentences using the keywords.
After analyzing, here's how your resume looks like:
Work Experience Section Example
Senior Azure Cloud Engineer, Federal Government, February 2017 to Present
By incorporating these specific keywords into your resume, you increase the likelihood of your application successfully navigating through ATS filters.
If you want your data engineer resume to stand out to employers, then you should try and show off your analytical skills. This means highlighting specific experiences and accomplishments that demonstrate your ability to analyze complex data sets and quantify your actions.
For example, include details about projects where you used data analysis tools or techniques, such as SQL queries, data visualization software, or statistical analysis, to solve problems. Or you can quantify your work by referring to improvements in data accessibility, efficiency, or decision-making.
This approach highlights both your ability to solve problems and your technical skills. Here’s a list of examples where you can potentially quantify results and show off your analysis skills on your data engineer resume:
Using action words in a data engineer resume is essential for making your accomplishments stand out. Words like "analyzed," "optimized," and "generated" emphasize the proactive role you played. Action verbs help demonstrate your ability to drive results, whether through improving scalability, reducing downtime, or enhancing processes.
Try out some of these action words: managed, analyzed, created, developed, improved, increased, reduced, streamlined and optimized.
It’s important to demonstrate your growth, influence, and expertise within the field. Promotions show that your contributions have been recognized and your career is advancing. Leadership experience emphasizes your ability to manage teams and guide financial strategy.
Hiring Managers often review many applications, and a clear, well-organized resume allows them to identify your key qualifications quickly. A to-the-point resume emphasizes your most impactful skills without overwhelming the reader, making it more likely that your accomplishments will stand out and resonate with potential employers.
Overused phrases on a data engineer resume can shut the door to an interview. These generic terms can make your resume blend in with others, failing to showcase your unique skills and accomplishments.
Instead of phrases like "results-driven" or "detail-oriented," use specific examples and quantifiable achievements, such as "improved data processing by 15%" or "managed a data integration project.” Or instead of using the term “team player,” try “led a cross-functional team to integrate a new platform.”
Eliminating these phrases can really differentiate your resume from others and show off your uniqueness.
Below you can find the resume examples for:
Martin Feldman
Chicago, IL • (555)-555-5555 • [email protected]
Azure Data Engineer | Infrastructure Management & Pipeline Development | Azure Certified
Summary
Manufacturing Data Engineer specializing in infrastructure management and pipeline development. Proficient in Azure Synapse Analytics, Data Factory, and PostgreSQL, with solid experience of building scalable data solutions to optimize manufacturing processes. Azure Certified, with extensive knowledge in developing and managing data pipelines in cloud environments.
Work Experience
Azure Data Engineer, Manufacturing Solutions Corp
May 2021 to Present
Projects:
Junior Data Engineer, Industrial Technologies Ltd
September 2018 - April 2021
Projects:
Skills
Education
Master of Science in Computer Engineering
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 2014 - 2015
Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering
New York University, 2009 - 2013
Certifications
References available upon request
Meghan Smith
San Francisco, CA • (555)-555-5555 • [email protected]
Big Data Engineer | Frameworks & Container Orchestration | IBM Big Data & Apache Kafka Certified
Summary
With my 7 years in the finance sector, I’m a Data Engineer who specializes in big data frameworks, container orchestration, and real-time data processing. With my multiple certifications and excellent track record of managing large-scale data systems, I’m looking to transition to e-commerce, leveraging my expertise in big data to support high-volume, real-time data processing for consumers and businesses alike.
Work Experience
Big Data Engineer, Global Finance Corp
January 2022 to Present
Junior Data Engineer, Financial Insights Ltd
September 2017 - November 2022
Skills
Education
Certifications
References available upon request
Carl Yang
Singapore • (555)-555-5555 • [email protected]
Data Center Engineer | Oracle & Cloudera Certifications | Data Security & Automation Specialist
Summary
Work Experience
Data Center Engineer, Tech Solutions Inc.
September 2020 to Present
Projects:
Junior Data Center Engineer, FinanceCorp Ltd.
September 2018 - June 2020
Skills
Education
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
National University of Singapore (NUS), 2014 - 2017
Certifications
References available upon request
Carrie Miner
Portland, OR • (555)-555-5555 • [email protected]
Data Warehouse Engineer | ETL, Data Modeling & Maintenance | Oracle, AWS, CDMP
Summary
I’m a genial Data Warehouse Engineer skilled at managing and optimizing data warehouses. Specializing in ETL processes, data modeling, and system maintenance, I’ve completed numerous projects that improve data accessibility and performance. I was even recognized for my exceptional data security efforts, receiving a company award after successfully safeguarding sensitive financial data during a cyberattack. Proficient with PostgreSQL, Apache Airflow, and AWS Glue, certified in Oracle, AWS, and CDMP.
Work Experience
Senior Data Warehouse Engineer, FinTech Innovations
April 2019 - Present
Data Warehouse Engineer, NextGen Financial Solutions
September 2015 - March 2019
Skills
Education
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
University of Washington, Seatle, WA, 2009 - 2013
Certifications
References available upon request
Kenny Hong
San Diego, CA • 555-555-5555 • [email protected]
GCP Data Engineer | Experienced in Data Storage & Optimization | Google Cloud Professional
Summary
GCP Data Engineer with 8 years in the e-commerce industry, specializing in data storage, optimization, and large-scale data processing. Proficient in Google BigQuery, Dataflow, and Cloud Storage, with a strong focus on improving data accessibility and query performance. Skilled in automating ETL workflows and integrating cloud-native tools. Google Cloud Professional Certification.
Work Experience
GCP Data Engineer, E-Commerce Innovations
October 2021 to Present
Data Analyst, Online Retail Solutions
March 2016 to September 2021
Skills
Education
Bachelor of Science in Data Science
|University of California, San Diego (UCSD), 2012 - 2015
Certifications
References available upon request
Gabrielle Printemps
New York, NY • 555-555-5555 • [email protected]
AWS Engineer | ETL & Infrastructure Management | AWS Certified Solutions Architect | French & English
Objective
I’m a data engineer with solid AWS experience in finance, and I'm looking to contribute to an innovative e-commerce company. With my expertise in AWS Redshift, Glue, and S3, I’d like to provide my adept skills of ETL processes, cloud infrastructure management, and data pipeline optimization to a consumer-focused team environment.
Work Experience
AWS Data Engineer, Finance Data Solutions
February 2020 to Present
Major Project:
Cloud Data Engineer, Global Finance Analytics
August 2016 to December 2019
Skills
Education
Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Switzerland, 2011 - 2014
Certifications
References available upon request
Becker Pendarvis
Houston, TX • 555-555-5555 • [email protected]
Automotive & Electronics Data Engineer | Modeling & Benchmark Testing Specialist | PostgreSQL and Ansible
Objective
I’m a well-tested Power & Performance Engineer with several years working for automotive and electronics companies. I specialize in modeling and benchmark testing to optimize energy efficiency and system performance. I am seeking to transfer my expertise to the chip manufacturing industry to drive energy-efficient and high-performance hardware.
Work Experience
Power & Performance Data Engineer, Global AutoTech Innovations
November 2021 to Present
Data Performance Engineer, Future Electronics Systems
January 2017 to September 2021
Skills
Education
Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
University of Texas at Austin, TX, 2012 - 2016
Certifications
References available upon request
Daphne Horowitz
Brooklyn, NY • 555-555-5555 • [email protected]
Data Analyst | Pipeline Development & Quality Assurance | Healthcare and E-commerce | Spark, SAS
Summary
Focused Data Analyst with extensive experience in healthcare and e-commerce sectors. Specializing in data pipeline development and quality assurance, adept at ensuring data integrity and enhancing data accessibility. Proficient in Spark, SAS, and various BI tools.
Work Experience
Data Engineer Analyst, Healthcare Innovations Inc.
Mar 2020 to Present
Data Analyst, E-commerce Solutions Ltd.
April 2017 to Feb 2020
Skills
Education
Master of Science in Data Science
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 2015 - 2016
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Harvard University, 2010 - 2014
Certifications
References available upon request
Mohammed Ahmed
Baton Rouge, LA • (555) 555-5555 • [email protected]
Data Engineer | Visual Data Pipelines, Preprocessing, and Annotation | AI and IoT | TensorFlow & OpenCV
Summary
I’m an experienced Computer Vision Data Engineer specializing in developing and optimizing data pipelines specifically for visual data. I’ve spearheaded projects in preprocessing, annotation, and handling large-scale image and video datasets. Proficient in OpenCV and TensorFlow for building real-time data systems and supporting machine learning models.
Work Experience
Computer Vision Data Engineer, AI Innovators Inc.
July 2021 to Present
Data Engineer, Tech Solutions Inc.
June 2017 to June 2021
Skills
Education
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 2011-2015
Certifications
References available upon request
Meghan Nguyen
Philadelphia, PA • (555) 555-5555 • [email protected]
Remote Data Engineer | Pipeline Development and Data Integration | Transitioning to Finance Industry
Objective
I'm a skilled Remote Data Engineer with 5 years of experience in the e-commerce industry who is well-versed in pipeline development, data integration, and managing cloud-based data infrastructures. Proficient with PostgreSQL, MongoDB, and AWS, I'm seeking a new opportunity in finance to leverage my expertise in building efficient and scalable data systems.
Work Experience
Remote Data Engineer, E-Commerce Co.
September 2022 to Present
Data Engineer, E-Commerce Co.
April 2019 to August 2022
Skills
Education
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, 2015-2018
Certifications
References available upon request
Winston Alvarez
Boulder, CO • (555) 555-5555 • [email protected]
Data & Platform Engineer | Healthcare and Telecommunications | BigQuery, Apache Airflow, and Tableau
Summary
I’m a motivated Data & Platform Engineer with a strong background in data monitoring, infrastructure management, and scaling data platforms. I have numerous projects where I designed and maintained large-scale data pipelines and infrastructure to ensure the reliability and accessibility of data. I’m seeking opportunities to contribute my skills to a collaborative team environment.
Work Experience
Data & Platform Engineer, Telecom Company (Remote)
August 2023 to Present
Data Engineer, Healthcare Provider (On-Site)
June 2019 to July 2023
Skills
Education
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
University of Chicago, IL, 2015-2018
Certifications
References available upon request
Abby Nolan
Boca Raton, FL • (555) 555-5555 • [email protected]
Data Analytics Engineer for Retail | Automation, Warehousing, and Compliance | AWS, Kafka & CDMP Certified
Objective
I’m a highly skilled Data Analytics Engineer working for global retail companies and specializing in data automation, warehousing, and compliance. I’m proficient in RedShift, Terraform, and Kafka, with a proven track record of building scalable data solutions and ensuring regulatory compliance. I’m looking to transition into healthcare, bringing my expertise in data infrastructure and analytics to help medical institutions perform better.
Work Experience
Data Analytics Engineer, Global Retailer
June 2021 to Present
Data Engineer, E-Commerce Retailer
June 2018 to May 2021
Skills
Education
Bachelor of Science in Data Science
University of Toronto, Canada, 2013-2017
Certifications
References available upon request
Gavin Li
Albuquerque, NM • (555) 555-5555 • [email protected]
Data Acquisition Engineer | Performance Monitoring and Data Integration Specialist | Spanish & English
Summary
I’m a driven Acquisition Engineer with nearly a decade of experience in the automotive and environmental sectors. With expertise in performance monitoring, data integration, and data collection, I’m well-versed in utilizing MongoDB, Apache Kafka, and Apache Spark to build efficient data pipelines and enhance data accessibility.
Work Experience
Data Acquisition Engineer, Environmental Research Agency
Jan 2021 to Present
Data Engineer, Auto Company
June 2017 to December 2020
Skills
Education
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Stanford University, CA, 2012-2016
Certifications
References available upon request
Crafting a successful data engineer resume is not as difficult as it may seem. Simply follow the advice above from each section and follow the resume examples provided. By using concise wording and organizing your skills and experience, your resume will stand out for all the right reasons. Just be sure to focus on what makes you unique as a data engineer candidate, and the doors of many companies will begin to open.
Cake is the best free resume builder that allows users to create professional online resumes and portfolios with ease. With a vast library of more than 60+ resume templates and snippets, you can effectively showcase your skills and accomplishments. Give it a try today!
— Originally written by Michael Reid —
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