IT Data Engineering Intern

Western National Group & Umialik Insurance•Edina, MN

About The Position

Western National Insurance is seeking a Data Engineering Intern to join our Data & Integrations team as part of the Summer 2027 Internship Program. Our company growth, combined with our focus on innovation, transformation, and investments in the customer experience are key drivers supporting the expansion of our team. The Data Engineering Intern will provide support to a variety of projects and initiatives, while playing a key role in our day-to-day operations. The individual in this role will have the opportunity to directly assist the Data & Integrations team with a wide range of projects including, researching and implementing new approaches for protecting sensitive customer data, and improving customer satisfaction by optimizing data loading and access strategies, so the right data is available quickly. Western National provides a robust internship program designed for individuals aiming to acquire valuable experience in the insurance industry. This program not only offers practical, hands-on opportunities and project work in partnership with our Data & Integrations team; but interns will also have the opportunity to enhance their existing skill sets through a range of professional development activities, cultivate relationships with employees and fellow interns, and participate in impactful volunteer initiatives within the community. As a Data Engineering Intern in our Internship Program, you will join our Data & Integrations team and gain hands-on experience supporting the systems and processes that turn business data into useful information. You will work alongside experienced data engineers and business partners while learning about enterprise data warehousing, data integration, software development, and Agile delivery practices.

Requirements

Currently pursuing a degree, certificate, or coursework in Computer Science, Data Engineering, Information Systems, Mathematics, or a related field.
A passion for technology and an interest in working with, analyzing, and improving data.
Basic experience with SQL and relational databases through coursework, projects, employment, or personal learning.
Exposure to Python or another scripting/programming language.
Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with an interest in understanding how systems and processes work.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain technical concepts to both technical and nontechnical audiences.
Willingness to ask questions, learn from feedback, and collaborate effectively with others.
Ability to pay close attention to detail when working with data, code, and documentation.
Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with Agile software development practices, source control tools such as Git or GitLab, or ETL/ELT technologies such as SSIS or Snowflake is preferred but not required.
Exposure to DevOps concepts, CI/CD processes, testing practices, or tools such as Docker or Jenkins is a plus.
Two years of college or equivalent relevant experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

Work with technologies used in our data environment, including SQL Server, SSIS, Snowflake, Python, and other tools that support enterprise data warehousing and automation.
Develop and test enhancements to data applications, ETL/ELT workflows, and supporting processes based on business requirements.
Troubleshoot and debug data integration and Enterprise Data Warehousing (EDW) issues by analyzing data, reviewing code, and working with team members to identify solutions.
Write clear, maintainable code and contribute to code reviews, unit testing, and other quality practices.
Participate in Agile activities such as backlog refinement, work estimation, planning, and team discussions.
Help identify opportunities to improve data processes, documentation, automation, and team efficiency.
Create and maintain technical documentation to support learning, onboarding, ongoing maintenance, and production releases.
Follow data security, privacy, quality, and change-management practices appropriate for an insurance environment.
Complete special projects and other duties as assigned.