Data Lead Consultant; Remote

Overview

Our client is looking to add a Data Team Lead that will be leading the current-state data and process assessment: mapping source systems, data movement, manual handoffs and spreadsheet dependencies across their clients finance domain, and supporting the executive readout presentation and decision framework at the close of Phase 1.

• Identifying validation, segmentation and control requirements, and assessing the current ownership model and business self-service needs
• Evaluating feasible target-state architecture options across current-state tools and target-state patterns — including fit of Cognos, SSRS, Power BI, Deltek, Azure-based options and hybrid approaches
• Recommending a finance-first architecture path that can scale into later phases
• Contributing to roadmap sequencing, transition logic and initial ROM-level estimates
• Co-authoring deliverables: current-state data/process map, requirements summary, target-state options assessment and recommendation, phased roadmap and executive readout
• Facilitating discovery workshops and validation sessions with finance reporting/process SMEs, IT/data stakeholders and the executive sponsor
• Proven experience as a senior/lead data engineer or data architect on finance-domain engagements (reporting, pricing, budgeting, allocations)
• Strong current-state assessment skills: source system, data flow, control and process mapping
• Hands-on experience with cloud data platforms — Azure (preferred), AWS or GCP — including storage, compute and managed data services
• Working knowledge of BI/reporting platforms:
  Cognos, SSRS, Power BI, Deltek
• Understanding of lakehouse and data warehouse architecture patterns (medallion, star schemas, Delta) and modern data modelling best practices
• Strong development skills in SQL and Python, with experience building or assessing ETL/ELT workflows using Apache Spark, Databricks or equivalent
• Ability to produce phased roadmaps and ROM-level estimates that connect technical choices to business value
• Excellent client-facing communication: able to facilitate workshops, frame decisions for executives and explain technical concepts to non-technical audiences
• Self-starting, outcome-focused and comfortable operating in a short, time-boxed discovery
• Prior experience in health insurance, payer or regulated financial services environments
• Experience assessing legacy reporting estates (Excel-heavy workflows, Cognos, SSRS) and proposing modernization paths
• Familiarity with Databricks (Delta Live Tables, Unity Catalog, Workflows) or similar lakehouse platforms
• Exposure to data governance, cataloguing and data quality frameworks
• Awareness of Microsoft funding paths for Azure-based modernization initiatives
• Relevant cloud or data certifications (Azure Data Engineer, Databricks Data Engineer, AWS Data Analytics)

The anticipated hourly rate range for this position is ($85-90/hr). Actual hourly rate will be based on a variety of factors including relevant experience, knowledge, skills and other factors permitted by law. A range of medical, dental, retirement and/or other benefits are available after a waiting period.