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Data Engineer Jobs in State College, PA (NOW HIRING)

Data Modeler

Pennsylvania Furnace, PA · On-site

$53.50 - $69.25/hr

The ideal candidate will work closely with business stakeholders, data architects, data engineers, and analytics teams to create scalable and efficient data models supporting supply chain operations ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Reedsville, PA · On-site

$66K - $86K/yr

Bachelor's / Master's Degree in Electronics Engineering, Computer Science, Data, Manufacturing Engineering, or equivalent. Minimum Required Experience: Minimum 2 years of experience with a Bachelor ...

Bachelor's / Master's Degree in Electronics Engineering, Computer Science, Data, Manufacturing Engineering, or equivalent. Minimum Required Experience: Minimum 2 years of experience with a Bachelor ...

Computer Engineer

State College, PA · On-site

$76.70 - $164/hr

Conduct data analysis, incorporating multiple data modalities and formats and exploratory data ... Additional computer programing languages such as Java, or C/C++* Development of software within DoD ...

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Data Engineer information

See State College, PA salary details

$43.4K

$126.5K

$173.1K

How much do data engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for data engineer in State College, PA is $126,525.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,700.00 and $134,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Data Engineer vs Data Scientist?

AspectData EngineerData Scientist
Primary FocusBuilding and maintaining data pipelines and infrastructureAnalyzing data to extract insights and create models
SkillsSQL, ETL, programming (Python, Java), database managementStatistics, machine learning, data analysis, programming (Python, R)
Work EnvironmentData warehouses, cloud platforms, backend systemsData analysis environments, research labs, visualization tools
Common ToolsApache Spark, Hadoop, Airflow, SQLJupyter, RStudio, Tableau, scikit-learn

Data Engineers focus on creating and maintaining the infrastructure that allows data to be collected, stored, and processed efficiently. Data Scientists analyze this data to generate insights, build predictive models, and support decision-making. While their skills overlap, Data Engineers are more involved in data pipeline development, whereas Data Scientists focus on data analysis and modeling.

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

To thrive as a Data Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science, data modeling, and programming languages such as Python or Java, often coupled with a relevant degree. Familiarity with ETL tools, big data frameworks (like Hadoop or Spark), and cloud platforms (such as AWS or Azure) is typically required, along with certifications like AWS Certified Data Analytics. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set exceptional data engineers apart. These skills and qualities are essential for building robust data pipelines, ensuring data quality, and supporting data-driven decision-making across organizations.

What does a data engineer do?

The job duties of a data engineer involve helping with the development of systems, software, and infrastructure used to process, store and analyze data. Your responsibilities in this career include working to install data management software. Your employer may expect you to perform maintenance and install updates to all software and systems that they use for data acquisition, management, and analysis. Data engineers also analyze existing data systems to find ways to improve efficiency and accessibility. You then suggest upgrades or changes based on your assessment.

What is a data engineer?

Data Engineers are IT professionals who design, construct, install, and maintain large-scale processing systems and other infrastructure for collecting, storing, and analyzing data. They build and optimize data pipelines and architectures that allow organizations to efficiently access and use data for business insights. Data Engineers work closely with data scientists, analysts, and other stakeholders to ensure that data is reliable, accessible, and secure. Their responsibilities often include working with databases, cloud platforms, and big data tools.

How do data engineers typically collaborate with data scientists and analysts within an organization?

Data Engineers play a crucial role in ensuring that Data Scientists and Analysts have reliable, well-structured data for their projects. This collaboration often involves building and maintaining data pipelines, optimizing data storage solutions, and troubleshooting data quality issues. Regular communication and agile teamwork are common, with Data Engineers frequently participating in meetings to understand analytical requirements and adjust data processes accordingly. By working closely together, these teams can quickly iterate on data models and deliver actionable insights to drive business decisions.

Is a data engineer entry level?

Data engineering is typically an intermediate to senior-level role that requires experience with programming, databases, and data pipelines. Entry-level positions may be available for those with relevant internships or strong foundational skills, but most data engineering roles demand several years of experience and proficiency with tools like SQL, Python, and cloud platforms.
What are the most commonly searched types of Data Engineer jobs in State College, PA? The most popular types of Data Engineer jobs in State College, PA are:
What are popular job titles related to Data Engineer jobs in State College, PA? For Data Engineer jobs in State College, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Data Engineer jobs in State College, PA look for? The top searched job categories for Data Engineer jobs in State College, PA are:
What cities near State College, PA are hiring for Data Engineer jobs? Cities near State College, PA with the most Data Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Data Engineer job openings in State College, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,525 per year, or $60.8 per hour.

Part-Time Data Extraction Programming

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site

$17/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

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Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS
The Population Research Institute is seeking applicants for part-time job of Data Extraction Programming, an upper-level undergraduate computer programmer or other qualified individual with interest in advancing skills in data extraction. Specifically, the candidate will develop Python or Java code that extracts data from printed population registry books that have been digitized + OCR text recognized. Data will be stored in a CSV file; the project already has defined possible data fields.
Job duties to include:
  • Desirable skills include coding experience in Python and/or Java (required), creative problem solving, ability to scrutinize own work and catch errors, experience annotating code, and ability to communicate work progress to supervisor with limited programming experience. While source materials generally present information systematically, the code must account for routine deviations and errors in the source materials.

Requirements, qualifications, and/or competencies:
  • Candidate will work independently with access to an experienced programmer for consultation when needed. Self-directed learning and resourcefulness are essential. Generative AI may be used strategically in consultation with supervisor but should not substitute for coding skills. Some familiarity with Amish and Mennonites is a plus but not required.
  • Work is primarily remote and flexible. Candidate must be committed to working in a distraction-free environment. Occasional exceptions to remote work include: (1) candidate may be required periodically to digitize printed population registries using equipment at University Park campus, and (2) candidate will occasionally meet in-person with supervisor, even as Zoom, telephone, and email will be the primary modes of communication.
  • Hours must be completed by August 17, 2026. While weekly hours are flexible, the candidate must work no fewer than four hours any given week. The position will be housed in Penn State's Population Research Institute and supervised by postdoctoral scholar Dr. Cory Anderson.
  • Position open immediately, and applications will be received until the position is filled. Please submit a list of programming-related experience, list of relevant coursework and final grades, and one reference who can speak to your programming experience and potential (e.g. advisor, instructor, or current/former employer).

Compensation:
The starting rate for this job is $17/hr.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.
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