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Associate Data Engineer Jobs in Columbia, AL (NOW HIRING)

... coding bootcamp or an associate degree combined with relevant professional experience ... Hands-on experience with Zoho and NetSuite platforms for business operations and data management.

Associate Data Engineer information

See Columbia, AL salary details

$8

$16

$27

How much do associate data engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate data engineer in Columbia, AL is $16.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.89 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Data Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Data Engineer, you need a solid understanding of data modeling, SQL, Python, and foundational knowledge of database concepts, often backed by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with data warehousing tools (like AWS Redshift, Google BigQuery), ETL frameworks, and cloud platforms as well as industry certifications such as AWS Certified Data Analytics is beneficial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you navigate complex data challenges and collaborate with teams. These abilities are crucial for ensuring data systems are reliable, scalable, and aligned with organizational goals.

What is the difference between Associate Data Engineer vs Data Engineer?

AspectAssociate Data EngineerData Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in CS, Data Science, or related field; basic knowledge of SQL and PythonBachelor's or Master's degree; advanced knowledge of SQL, Python, Spark, and cloud platforms
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, team-focused, often in tech or finance industriesMid to senior level, designing and maintaining data pipelines in various industries
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in tech companies, startups, and finance firmsUsed across industries for building scalable data infrastructure
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for career progression and skill requirements

The Associate Data Engineer role is an entry-level position focusing on supporting data infrastructure, while the Data Engineer is a more advanced role responsible for designing and maintaining complex data systems. The roles share similar educational backgrounds and work environments but differ in experience level and responsibilities.

What does an Associate Data Engineer do?

An Associate Data Engineer is responsible for supporting the development, maintenance, and optimization of data pipelines and databases. They work closely with senior data engineers and other IT professionals to ensure data is accessible, reliable, and efficiently processed for analytics and business use. Typical tasks include writing and testing code for data integration, troubleshooting data issues, and implementing data security best practices. This entry-level position is a foundational role that builds technical skills and experience in data engineering.

What are some common challenges an Associate Data Engineer may face when working with large-scale data pipelines?

As an Associate Data Engineer, you may often encounter challenges such as optimizing data pipeline performance, ensuring data quality, and troubleshooting bottlenecks when processing large volumes of data. Working with distributed systems can introduce complex issues like latency and data consistency. Collaborating effectively with data scientists, analysts, and senior engineers is crucial for aligning data infrastructure with evolving project requirements. Regularly learning new tools and best practices will help you adapt to these challenges and grow in your role.
What job categories do people searching Associate Data Engineer jobs in Columbia, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Data Engineer jobs in Columbia, AL are:
What cities near Columbia, AL are hiring for Associate Data Engineer jobs? Cities near Columbia, AL with the most Associate Data Engineer job openings:

$57K - $71K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Old Dominion Freight Line rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 163 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 64 rated delivery companies


Job description

At Old Dominion, we don't just move freight-we help businesses keep their promises. As one of the nation's leading LTL carriers, we've earned our reputation by putting people first, delivering premium service, and staying true to the values that have guided us for more than 90 years. Our PROMISES values shape how we work, our family culture shapes how we treat one another, and our commitment to being the Best in the Game drives everything we do. If you're looking for more than just a job, you'll find a career built on trust, teamwork, and opportunity at OD.


The Database Associate will be responsible for supporting database maintenance and security by performing tasks such as basic database administration, backup operations, performance monitoring, documentation, and troubleshooting minor issues, while gaining hands-on experience and expertise under the guidance of senior DBAs. Must have a fundamental understanding of database management systems and database security best practices.

Primary Responsibilities

  • Assist in the installation, configuration, and maintenance of database management systems.
  • Conduct routine database backup checks, identify potential issues, bottlenecks, and trends.
  • Provide basic technical support to application users for database access and queries.
  • Help ensure data security by managing access controls and user permissions.
  • Document processes and procedures for use by database administrators and management.
  • Assist with database upgrades, patching, and routine maintenance under supervision.
  • Write and execute simple SQL queries to retrieve, update, and manipulate data as needed.
  • Collaborate with DBAs, developers, and application teams to support database-related tasks.
  • Assist with data replication tools under the guidance of senior DBAs.

Job Qualifications

Education:

  • Bachelor's degree in computer science or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Required Experience:

  • 1+ year of experience in Information Technology.
  • 1 year of experience in database administration and support, or relevant certifications.
  • Basic knowledge of SQL and relational database management systems (RDBMS).
  • Understanding of database backup, recovery, and security best practices.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with team members and across IT teams.
  • Excellent communication skills, including written, verbal, and interpersonal abilities.
  • Eagerness to learn and adapt to new database technologies.
  • Familiarity with cloud databases (GCP, AWS, Azure) is a plus.
  • Relevant certifications are a plus.

Compensation Range:

The referenced salary range is based on the Company's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training, skill level, and state/local wage requirements.

($57,587-$71,985)

Working Days:

Shift and hours to be determined.

Working Shift:

Shift and hours to be determined.

Work days/shifts may change based on scheduling and business needs and are provided as guidelines at the time of posting.


Application Window:

Ongoing

Candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Old Dominion plans to screen candidates, conduct interviews, and proceed with hiring candidates to meet its business needs, which may result in filling the role before the current anticipated application window closes.

Join the OD Family Today!
As a Full Time member of our Family, you and your family are eligible to receive:

  • Great Health Benefits including a Zero premium medical plan for employee only coverage

  • Vision & Dental

  • Short Term & Long Term Disability

  • Flex Spending Accounts

  • 401k Retirement plan with company match and additional company annual discretionary match opportunity

  • Life Insurance

  • Wellness Program

  • 12 Days Paid Time Off

  • 9 Paid Holidays including a birthday holiday

  • Tuition Reimbursement for Drivers and Technicians

  • Training and growth opportunities to build a career

  • We prioritize our OD family of employees

  • Ability to advance through our promote from within philosophy

  • National Career Opportunities Available at our 260+ service centers

Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer.All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, gender identity, and/orgender expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic information,military status, Vietnam Era and/or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law(s).

If you have questions regarding this posting or require assistance with the application process, please click here for contact information.


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About Old Dominion Freight

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Old Dominion Freight Line, often referred to as Old Dominion or ODFL, is based out of Thomasville, North Carolina, in the United States and operates within the industry of Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) carrier services. Their services include regional, super-regional, and intrastate domestic shipping, assembly and distribution, container delivery, truckload brokerage, supply chain consulting, and expedited freight delivery. Established in 1934, Old Dominion has grown from a single truck running a 94-mile route in Virginia to a leading national LTL carrier with over 235 service centres.

Industry

Trucking

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Thomasville, NC, US

Year founded

1934