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Data Engineer Entry Level Jobs in Lafayette, LA (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Plumbing Engineer

Lafayette, LA · On-site

$67K - $85K/yr

Entry Level Plumbing Engineer At Salas O'Brien we tell our clients that we're engineered for impact ... Our specialized experience includes design for data centers, healthcare, science and technology ...

IT Support Intern

Lafayette, LA · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

... Data Systems (GDS). Working alongside experienced Service Desk staff, engineers, and mentors, the ... pursue an entry-level IT support career. Learning Objectives: 1. Develop a foundational ...

IT Support Intern

Lafayette, LA

$14.25 - $19/hr

... Data Systems (GDS). Working alongside experienced Service Desk staff, engineers, and mentors, the ... pursue an entry-level IT support career. Learning Objectives: 1. Develop a foundational ...

IT Support Intern

Lafayette, LA · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

... Data Systems (GDS). Working alongside experienced Service Desk staff, engineers, and mentors, the ... pursue an entry-level IT support career. Learning Objectives: 1. Develop a foundational ...

Data Engineer Entry Level information

See Lafayette, LA salary details

$42.5K

$123.9K

$169.5K

How much do data engineer entry level jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for data engineer entry level in Lafayette, LA is $123,879.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $109,300.00 and $131,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical projects or tasks that entry-level data engineers work on during their first year?

As an entry-level data engineer, you can expect to work on tasks such as building and maintaining data pipelines, cleaning and transforming raw data, and supporting the integration of different data sources. You'll often collaborate with data analysts and more senior engineers to ensure data is accurate, accessible, and well-documented. Early projects might include automating data extraction processes, setting up basic ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) workflows, or optimizing database queries. These foundational responsibilities help build the technical and teamwork skills essential for career growth in data engineering.

Can I get a data engineer entry level job with no experience?

Entry-level data engineering positions typically require some knowledge of programming languages like Python or SQL, as well as familiarity with data tools and platforms such as Hadoop or Spark. While prior work experience is not always mandatory, having relevant coursework, certifications, or internships can improve your chances of securing an entry-level role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level data engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Data Engineer, you need foundational knowledge in programming (such as Python or SQL), data structures, and database management, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with ETL tools, cloud platforms (like AWS or Azure), and version control systems is typically expected. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with teams and adapt to evolving data needs. These skills ensure accurate data processing, efficient pipeline development, and successful integration within data-driven organizations.

What does a data engineer entry level do?

An entry-level data engineer is responsible for designing, building, and maintaining systems that allow organizations to collect, store, and analyze large amounts of data. They typically work with databases, data pipelines, and cloud platforms to ensure data is accessible and reliable for analysis. Entry-level data engineers often assist with cleaning and transforming raw data, automating data workflows, and supporting data scientists and analysts. They also learn best practices in data security and performance optimization as they gain experience.

What is the difference between Data Engineer Entry Level vs Data Analyst Entry Level?

AspectData Engineer Entry LevelData Analyst Entry Level
Required CredentialsBachelor's in CS, IT, or related field; some certifications (e.g., Google Cloud, AWS)Bachelor's in Statistics, Math, or related field; certifications like Microsoft Data Analyst
Work EnvironmentFocus on building data pipelines, databases, and infrastructureFocus on interpreting data, creating reports, and visualizations
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, finance, healthcare, where data infrastructure is keyBusiness intelligence, marketing, finance, and consulting firms

While both roles involve working with data, Data Engineer Entry Level focuses on developing and maintaining data infrastructure, whereas Data Analyst Entry Level emphasizes analyzing data to generate insights. Both roles require strong technical skills and are essential in data-driven organizations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Data Engineer jobs in Lafayette, LA? The most popular types of Data Engineer jobs in Lafayette, LA are:
What job categories do people searching Data Engineer Entry Level jobs in Lafayette, LA look for? The top searched job categories for Data Engineer Entry Level jobs in Lafayette, LA are:
What cities near Lafayette, LA are hiring for Data Engineer Entry Level jobs? Cities near Lafayette, LA with the most Data Engineer Entry Level job openings:
Infographic showing various Data Engineer Entry Level job openings in Lafayette, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,879 per year, or $59.6 per hour.

Entry Level Plumbing Engineer

Salas O'Brien

Lafayette, LA • On-site

$67K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Salas O'Brien rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

154th of 443 rated engineering


Job description

Entry Level Plumbing Engineer
At Salas O'Brien we tell our clients that we're engineered for impact. This passion for making a difference applies just as much to our team as it does to our projects. That's why we're committed to living our values every day: inspiring, achieving, and connecting as shared owners of our success with a focus on a sustainable future.
Building for the long-term means that all of our team members can expect to work on amazing projects with a people-first approach to problem solving. It also means that each member of our team has truly limitless potential to build a unique, meaningful, and high-impact career-and they'll receive great total rewards along the way.
About Us:
Founded in 1975, Salas O'Brien is an employee-owned engineering and professional services firm focused on achieving impact for our clients, our team, and the world. We know that tomorrow's requirements are today's opportunities, and we are here to design lasting solutions for pressing challenges.
We work across a variety of industries providing integrated engineering and consulting services. Our specialized experience includes design for data centers, healthcare, science and technology, high-rise buildings, clean energy, education, and other building types as well as structural and building sciences, infrastructure asset management, advanced robotics, and more.
Our technical expertise is paired with an exceptional team of business development, human resources, finance and accounting, information technology, and marketing professionals, all of whom play a key role in bringing our commitments to life every day.
Job Summary:
The Entry Level Plumbing Engineer serves to engage in all phases of a project from programming to construction document development to construction administration. This involvement is intended to grow individuals and nurture design talents. You'll be part of a team that provides creative solutions that build success for our clients and employees. Your role will include developing and sustaining relationships with in-house teams and contractors while providing technical solutions through design and consulting services that address the facility manager and/or owner's requirements.
In this role, you will:
  • Clearly communicate design recommendations to our clients, project teams, construction contractors and vendors in presentations, meetings, via email and phone as necessary
  • Work independently or as part of a team on projects with other technical staff to develop the mechanical systems designs that are needed, assuring that the work is accurate and coordinated, and that the quality assurance measures have been followed.
  • Participate in plumbing department standard development and maintenance
  • Assist the work of other engineers and designers as a design Engineer to generate project deliverables.
  • You will be a great fit if:
  • You have a minimum of a BS in Mechanical Engineering.
  • You can provide timely services that meet the needs of the clients and the overall project schedule requirements

Skills/abilities:
  • Able to work within a project team to efficiently produce project 3-D Revit models and construction documents of building plumbing systems
  • Able to implement and utilize project specific model and drawing standards
  • Can effectively coordinate work with other project team members
  • Exhibit excellent problem-solving skills, able to find creative, innovative solutions to challenges.
  • Have excellent listening, written and verbal communication skills, and is sensitive situations where it is necessary to effectively communicate and coordinate with others
  • Have excellent teamwork skills
  • Be effective at handling multiple tasks
  • Be able to quickly adapt to changes
  • Demonstrate a high standard of professionalism and customer service

Location: Lafayette, LA
Travel: Less than 10%
Benefits:
This role is also eligible for performance-based bonuses and a comprehensive U.S. based benefits package, including:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off and company holidays
  • Wellness programs and employee assistance resources
  • Professional development support

For more information, visit our full benefits overview here.
Equal Opportunity Employment Statement
Salas O'Brien provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, colour, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, or local laws. Salas O'Brien will accommodate the disability-related needs of applicants as required by law.
Third-Party Agency Notice
Salas O'Brien does not accept unsolicited resumes from external recruiters or agencies. We only work with approved partners engaged directly by our Talent Acquisition team for specific searches. Unsolicited submissions will not be eligible for placement fees.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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