Lead Data Engineer

Job Description RMI is transforming the global energy system to secure a clean, prosperous, zero-carbon future for all. We work with businesses, policymakers, communities and other organizations to identify and scale interventions that will cut greenhouse gas emissions at least 50% by 2030.RMI is a data-driven organization, and it is critical for there to be a successful and robust data strategy at the organization to improve the impact of our programs. RMI is building a Data and AI Engineering team to enhance access to both internal business systems and external data sources. The Lead Data Engineer will support this initiative, working alongside a multi-disciplinary team, and will be a key contributor to pipelines, infrastructure, and AI-enhanced capabilities. You will report to the Data Engineering Manager on the Strategic Operations team. A successful candidate will be adept at cloud data storage and design, ETL/ELT pipelines, and associated coding languages, with keen attention to detail and a strong desire to support the energy transition.Key ResponsibilitiesSupport the development and maintenance of data ingestion pipelines between internal business systems (e.g., Workday, Salesforce)Support the development of internal AI-enhanced applications, integrating LLMs via API and MCPAssist in building and maintaining relational databases, including MySQL and PostgreSQL schemas, to support internal dashboards, applications, and reportingHelp implement data reliability and monitoring features across existing data flowsDeploy and manage Azure cloud resources (database, storage, web app, function app) based on project needs and templates defined by senior staffAssist with the development testing, and deployment of various connectors (i.e., MCP servers, APIs) for general purpose AI tools (i.e., ChatGPT, Claude)Write clean, reusable code primarily in Python and R to automate data processing tasks and support analytical workflowsCollaborate with operations staff and non-technical stakeholders to develop a strong working knowledge of data processes and upstream/downstream impactAssist in migrating siloed or manual data processes into centralized, accessible systemsWork with the IT team to ensure security and fidelity of cloud data servicesMinimum Qualifications3-5 years of professional or internship experience in data engineering, data science, or a related fieldProficiency in Python for data processing, scripting, and automationWorking knowledge of R for data analysis and statistical tasksFamiliarity with Git or similar version control technologyWorking knowledge of integrating LLM APIs (e.g., OpenAI, Anthropic) into data workflows or applications, including via MCP serversExperience writing SQL queries and working with relational databasesExposure to cloud-based data workflows; familiarity with Microsoft Azure is a plusComfort working across multiple projects simultaneously in a collaborative, evolving environmentStrong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to collaborate with non-technical stakeholdersPreferred QualificationsHands-on experience with Azure cloud services (Azure SQL, Azure Functions, Azure Blob Storage, or similar)Familiarity with ETL/ELT concepts and data pipeline design patternsExperience with data modeling best practicesExperience building lightweight internal web tools or APIsExperience with data visualization tools such as Power BIFamiliarity with Salesforce, Workday, or similar enterprise data sources, especially working with their APIsExperience working in a non-profit environmentDemonstrated interest in energy, climate, or sustainability sectorsWe encourage anyone who is interested in this role to apply, regardless of whether you feel you meet 100% of the qualifications. The top candidates will bring their own unique perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds from a variety of industries along with many but not necessarily all the skills listed above. We offer professional learning and training opportunities to help you develop the skills you may not have had the opportunity to cultivate yet.Visa SponsorshipPlease note: At this time, RMI is not able to sponsor employment visas or hire candidates who require visa sponsorship to work in the United States. All candidates must have current, independent authorization to work in the U.S. without present or future sponsorship from RMI. We will update our hiring pages if this status changes.LocationWe are a remote-ready company with team members around the globe. Our beautiful and welcoming offices are available for meetings or focused work, whether you are traveling through or living nearby. Our U.S. offices are in New York City; Washington DC; Oakland, California; Boulder, Colorado, and Basalt, Colorado. This role can be located from anywhere in the continental United States.We provide you with the essential IT equipment plus a one-time home technology payment and a monthly work from home/commuter allowance to ensure you have a comfortable home office set up and necessary supplies.We love seeing each other in person! We occasionally gather for shared time together like retreats and learning experiences. Be ready to travel for occasional in-person meetings (and of course, we cover travel costs). Some roles may require more travel, which will be discussed during the hiring process.CompensationAt RMI, we prioritize fairness in our pay practices. Salaries are determined based on a mix of experience, market benchmarks, and internal equity across similar roles. The salary range of this position is $93,890 - $115,720. New hires typically start toward the lower end of the range, depending on experience and alignment with the role's scope. In addition to base salary, this position includes an annual bonus target of 10% and eligibility for merit-based increases, which are tied to both individual and organizational performance.BenefitsWe offer an array of benefits including:Medical, dental, vision insurance403b retirement match with immediate vestingGroup life, AD&D, and short- and long-term disabilityOptional voluntary life, AD&D and accident plansHealth savings or flexible spending accountsFertility and hormonal health supportMental health and wellness supportComprehensive leaves of absence (including generous parental leave)Generous paid time off and sick leavePaid sabbatical leaveRegional holidays with at least one extended break in each geographyWork from home and home technology allowancesLearning & development opportunities (LinkedIn Learning and an annual individual professional development budget)Potential for bonuses and merit increasesDiscount marketplace (gym memberships, pet insurance, etc.)Hybrid / remote work optionsTeam retreats and geographic meetupsRewards and recognition programsDiversityWe know that the diversity of our teams makes us stronger as an organization, and RMI is dedicated to the principles of equal employment opportunity as outlined in U.S. federal law. We prohibit discrimination against applicants, interns, and employees on the basis of any legally recognized basis, including but not limited to: age (40 and over), race, color, sex, pregnancy (including lactation, childbirth, or related medical conditions), religion, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, genetic information (including testing and characteristics), sexual orientation, gender expression/identity, uniformed service member status, veteran status, citizenship status, or any other applicable status protected by applicable law.RMI is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.