Associate Data Engineer

Ahead•Chicago, IL

20h•$80,000 - $88,000•Onsite

About The Position

AHEAD builds platforms for digital business, helping enterprises achieve digital transformation through cloud infrastructure, automation, analytics, and software delivery. The company fosters a culture of belonging, valuing diverse perspectives and voices, and is an equal opportunity employer. The Associate Data Engineer role is part of AHEAD's LAUNCH Associate Development Program, which aims to attract and develop top IT consulting talent and build future leaders. This program provides a foundation for growth by exposing participants to various career paths and building acumen across different business practices, accelerating their career trajectory. The development program includes technical training, certifications, and shadowing, supported by an ecosystem of AHEADians. As an Associate Engineer in LAUNCH, you will begin with a 3-month training program within the Digital Solutions Group (DSG) practice, focusing on Data solutions. Upon completion of LAUNCH, you will have the opportunity to work on client projects based on your skillset, personal interest, and business needs. AHEAD is looking for individuals who are innovative thinkers, enthusiastic collaborators, creative problem solvers, and curious self-starters, demonstrating a drive to learn and be curious.

Requirements

Experience any of the programming languages (Python, Java, Scala, Go, etc.)
Working knowledge of supporting data structures including but not limited to SQL and NoSQL databases
Willingness to travel to support client projects and shadowing opportunities (50+ % of the time)
Existing U.S. work authorization is required
Graduated with a degree in technical discipline by 6/8/2026

Nice To Haves

Understanding of one of the data platforms (ex. Hadoop, Spark, Databricks, Snowflake)
Working knowledge of Cloud Solutions
Prior intern, co-op, or research experience in IT, software, or relevant field is a plus
Successful completion in a technical–related bootcamp
Working knowledge of Application Development

Responsibilities

Ability to communicate effectively across teams, and build positive relationships
Demonstrate ability to work on teams, collaborate on projects, and contribute to the overall successful delivery of projects
Demonstrate drive and proactiveness to get things done, be solutions–oriented, and enjoy solving complex problems
Demonstrate resourcefulness, curiosity, creativity, courage, critical thinking, and a desire to use technology to search for new and innovative solutions to problems
Exercise sound reasoning, ingenuity, and inclusive perspectives to analyze issues, solve problems and make recommendations
Ability to execute, manage competing priorities, and deliver to deadlines