Manager of Data Engineering

Harvard University - Boston, MA

Full-time - Manager

Hybrid - Boston, MA

Educational Services

About the position

The Manager of Data Engineering at Harvard University will serve as the technical leader within the Office of the Vice Provost for Advances in Learning (VPAL). This role focuses on managing data processes and infrastructure to support online learning initiatives and the development of a custom online learning experience platform. The position requires collaboration with various teams to enhance learning opportunities and ensure effective data management and analytics.

Responsibilities

• Architect and manage the development of data processes, infrastructure, and analytics connected to learning platforms, CRM and e-commerce systems, ticketing systems, and marketing applications.
• Prioritize technical tasks within larger projects and coordinate with multiple partners.
• Supervise assigned staff, ensuring effective performance and providing coaching, mentoring, and performance feedback.
• Conduct performance evaluations for team members.
• Lead technical collaboration with stakeholders to define requirements and design reusable solutions.
• Act as a liaison within the Harvard technical community to implement systems for teaching and learning.

Requirements

• Minimum of five years' post-secondary education or relevant work experience.
• Supervisory experience.
• Advanced proficiency in relational database systems and/or NoSQL databases.
• Extensive knowledge of complex ETL processes and process automation.
• Significant experience deploying software on scalable cloud platforms (e.g., Snowflake, GCP, AWS).
• Proven experience with building APIs and services using RESTful architecture.
• Expertise in programming languages such as Python and SQL, and experience with distributed computing systems like Spark, Hadoop, and PySpark.
• Proficiency with cloud technologies (AWS: S3, ECS, EMR, EC2, Lambda).
• Strong proficiency with data integration and orchestration tools (e.g., Apache Airflow) and CI/CD pipelines.
• Working knowledge of modern web frameworks (Node.js, Vue.js, React, Angular, Django, etc.).
• Experience in building and maintaining insightful data dashboards.

Nice-to-haves

• Completion of Harvard IT Academy specified foundational courses (or external equivalent) preferred.

Benefits

• 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff).
• 12 accrued sick days per year.
• 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January.
• 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire).
• Up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary caregivers.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• Disability and life insurance programs.
• Child and elder/adult care resources including on-campus childcare centers.
• Employee Assistance Program and wellness programs.
• University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation.
• Tuition Assistance Program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School.
• Tuition Reimbursement Program providing 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year.
• Professional Development programs and classes at little or no cost.
• Various commuter options including discounted parking and public transportation passes.