Since the concept of ‘Big Data’ jumped into the mainstream, data scientists have been getting a lot of attention. However, many have failed to see the importance of those that keep that data flowing: data engineers.
While having access to the insights data can provide is important, those results cannot be achieved without the infrastructure required to store and manage the data that you wish to analyze. Failure to bring the right IT professionals on staff means you are missing out on the opportunity to squeeze your data for all its worth.
If you aren’t sure how data engineering fits into your organization, consider this overview.
Architecture and Data Management
The architecture required to maintain large quantities of data is complex in nature. Those maintaining the systems often possess a range of skills including coding abilities, data warehousing techniques, and skills related to the administration of machine learning strategies. Professionals working in the data engineering field concentrate their efforts on successful data consolidation and storage, as well as the creation of a robust, fault-tolerant system upon which other data professionals can perform their work.
Since big data often involves the management of varying sources, including semistructured and unstructured data, designing the architecture required to support the different formats requires high-level skills that not every data professional can provide. Additionally, the ability to organize, sort, shift, and clean up data is a major component of the job, separating it from those working in the analytical positions associated with data science.
Blending the roles of data scientists and data engineers removes the employees from what they do best. This can create inefficiency in larger projects and forces those working in those positions to serve the function of two employees instead of focusing on their area of expertise.
Meaningful Soft Skills
Beyond their technical capabilities, data engineers must also possess soft skills that support their efforts. Often, they work directly with a variety of stakeholders who require the data to perform their job duties. It is common for those stakeholders to be unfamiliar with the idiosyncrasies associated with the management of data, along with what is required to make it accessible for analysis.
To successfully work in a data engineering position, these professionals must be able to discuss complex technical information in a way that stakeholders can understand. This is especially true of data engineers working with colleagues who do not focus on technical skills for the performance of their duties.
Are You Ready to Divide and Conquer?
Now that you understand the value that a skilled data engineer can provide, are you interested in finding the ideal employee to fit that role? With over two decades of experience in the field of IT staffing, the professionals at ITStaff can help you find the perfect match. Contact Us Today!
