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Exempt Data Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Vast

Staff Data Architect

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$155K - $221K/yr

This will be a full-time , exempt position located in our Long Beach location. Responsibilities ... Integrate data from complex engineering systems (PLM/Teamcenter), manufacturing systems (MES/MOM ...

Vast

Staff Data Architect

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$67 - $86.25/hr

This will be a full-time , exempt position located in our Long Beach location. Responsibilities ... Integrate data from complex engineering systems (PLM/Teamcenter), manufacturing systems (MES/MOM ...

FairSquare

Director of Data Engineering

San Diego, CA · Hybrid

Director of Data Engineering - San Diego, CA 3 days/week in office, 2 days/week remote, Full time M ... Exempt/Salary: $140,000-230,000. Position eligible for additional incentives including bonus ...

Fair Square

Director of Data Engineering

San Diego, CA · On-site

$170K - $230K/yr

Director of Data Engineering - San Diego, CA • 3 days/week in office, 2 days/week remote ... Exempt/Salary: $140,000-230,000. Position eligible for additional incentives including bonus ...

Boot Barn

Data Scientist

Irvine, CA

EXEMPT Summary Boot Barn is where community comes first. We thrive on togetherness, collaboration ... Working closely with AI/ML and Data Engineers, this individual will ensure models are robust, well ...

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All JobsExempt Data Engineer JobsExempt Data Engineer Jobs in California

Exempt Data Engineer information

See California salary details

$43.9K

$128K

$175.2K

How much do exempt data engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for exempt data engineer in California is $128,018.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $113,000.00 and $135,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I get a Data Engineer job with no experience?

Entry-level Data Engineer positions typically require some knowledge of programming languages like Python or SQL, as well as familiarity with data processing tools such as Apache Spark or Hadoop. While prior experience is often preferred, candidates with relevant internships, certifications, or strong technical skills can sometimes qualify for junior roles or apprenticeships in data engineering.

Is AI replacing data engineers?

AI is transforming the role of data engineers by automating routine tasks such as data cleaning and integration, but it does not replace the need for skilled professionals to design, manage, and optimize data infrastructure. Data engineers are essential for building scalable data pipelines, ensuring data quality, and implementing AI solutions effectively within organizations.

What are Exempt Data Engineers?

Exempt Data Engineers are professionals responsible for designing, building, and maintaining the systems and architecture that allow organizations to collect, store, and analyze large amounts of data. The term 'exempt' refers to their employment status under labor laws, meaning they are salaried employees who are not eligible for overtime pay under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). These engineers typically work with big data technologies, databases, and programming languages to ensure data is accessible, reliable, and secure for analysis and business decision-making.

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

To thrive as an Exempt Data Engineer, you need strong expertise in data modeling, SQL, programming (such as Python or Java), and a relevant degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with big data platforms (e.g., Hadoop, Spark), cloud services (like AWS or Azure), and data pipeline tools, along with certifications such as Google Data Engineer or AWS Certified Data Analytics, is typically required. Analytical thinking, effective problem-solving, and strong collaboration skills help set top performers apart. These competencies ensure the reliable design, implementation, and management of data systems that support business intelligence and organizational decision-making.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior data engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in big data tools, and certifications can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or within top-tier companies. Achieving this level often requires expertise in cloud platforms, distributed systems, and leadership roles.

What is the difference between Exempt Data Engineer vs Data Analyst?

AspectExempt Data EngineerData Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related field, often certifications in data engineering toolsBachelor's in Statistics, Data Science, or related field, often certifications in analytics tools
Work EnvironmentDesigning, building, and maintaining data pipelines in tech or finance industriesInterpreting data, creating reports, and providing insights across various industries
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in companies with large data infrastructure, including tech, finance, and healthcareCommon in marketing, finance, healthcare, and retail sectors

Exempt Data Engineers focus on developing and maintaining data infrastructure, while Data Analysts interpret data to generate insights. Both roles require strong technical skills, but Data Engineers typically work more on data architecture, whereas Data Analysts focus on data analysis and reporting.

What are some common challenges faced by Exempt Data Engineers when integrating data from multiple sources?

Exempt Data Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating data from various sources, such as incompatible data formats, inconsistent data quality, and varying update frequencies. Addressing these issues typically requires designing robust ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) pipelines and collaborating closely with data analysts, database administrators, and source system owners. Successfully overcoming these challenges not only ensures reliable data flow but also enhances the organization's ability to make data-driven decisions. Proactive communication and thorough documentation are key practices that help streamline integration processes.

What jobs are H1B cap exempt?

H1B cap-exempt jobs include positions at institutions of higher education, nonprofit research organizations, and government research agencies. Data engineers working in these settings may qualify for cap exemption if their employer qualifies under these categories, often requiring specialized skills in data management, cloud platforms, and programming languages. It is important to verify the employer's status to determine eligibility for H1B cap exemption.
What are the most commonly searched types of Data Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Data Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Exempt Data Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Exempt Data Engineer job openings:
Exempt Data Engineer jobs near you

Emerging Field Data Engineer / Specialist

Kia America

Irvine, CA

$77K - $100K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

At Kia, we're creating award-winning products and redefining what value means in the automotive industry. It takes a special group of individuals to do what we do, and we do it together. Our culture is fast-paced, collaborative, and innovative. Our people thrive on thinking differently and challenging the status quo. We are creating something special here, a culture of learning and opportunity, where you can help Kia achieve big things and most importantly, feel passionate and connected to your work every day.

Kia provides team members with competitive benefits including premium paid medical, dental and vision coverage for you and your dependents, 401(k) plan matching of 100% up to 6% of the salary deferral, and paid time off. Kia also offers company lease and purchase programs, company-wide holiday shutdown, paid volunteer hours, and premium lifestyle amenities at our corporate campus in Irvine, California.
Status

Exempt 

General Summary

The purpose of this position is to support the Emerging Field Data Manager and Emerging Field Data Team (EFD) by identifying at an early stage in a model's life cycle, any emerging potential safety and noncompliance issues through Kia's Safety Data Analytics Infrastructure (SDAI) system and other supporting applications. This includes review of Kia America (KUS) warranty, Techline, Customer Care, field reports, and quality information reports, as well as NHTSA Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) and other data sources, as applicable.

This position will be responsible for performing detailed screening of potential safety issue alerts and escalating relevant alerts for further data analysis and/or investigation. This involves review of data across data sources to identify frequency, severity, and detectability of alerted issues. The position will also provide verbal reports to management, other Data Evaluation Team (DET) members, and Forensic Engineering & Investigations team members, and support data analysis efforts in the investigation of potential safety and noncompliance issues. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1st Priority - 40%

Perform detailed screening of potential safety issue alerts and escalate relevant alerts for further data analysis and/or investigation. Work from SDAI dashboards to identify frequency, severity, and detectability of alerted issues.

2nd Priority - 30%

Evaluate escalated alerts for any potential trends and communicate findings to Emerging Field Data Manager. Collaborate with the Data Evaluation Team or Forensic Engineering and Investigation Team to support further data analysis. 

3rd Priority - 15%

Develop sophisticated monitoring criteria to ensure that any developments on closed cases are tracked in a timely manner.

4th Priority - 15%

Assist in the continuous improvement and development of Safety Data Analytics Infrastructure (SDAI) by creating training data for improving machine learning model accuracy and communicating opportunities to improve efficiency to Emerging Field Data Manager.

Qualifications/Education
  • Engineer: BS degree in Engineering or Automotive Technology or equivalent work experience required.
  • Specialist: Bachelors degree in technical field or equivalent work experience.
     
Job Requirement

Overall Related Experience:

  • 3-7 years of experience in technical positions such as safety analysis, product quality, technical customer assistance, or in a product engineering environment.
  • Written and oral technical communications experience.  

Directly Related Experience:

  • Automotive, aerospace, commercial vehicle, or similar technical work experience required.
  • Working knowledge of statistical analysis concepts and software.

Other Requirements:

  • Schedule(s) may vary due to needs of the business including but not limited to working outside of normal business hours, travel, weekends and/or holidays.
  • Must have a valid driver's license. Position requires driving Kia and competitor vehicles to evaluate vehicles.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
     
Specialized Skills and Knowledge Required
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Excellent analytical skills and attention to detail.
  • Excellent teamwork skills.
  • Intermediate knowledge of automotive systems and components.   
  • Knowledge of PC software such as Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.    
  • Knowledge of statistics.
  • Knowledge of SAS programing language and Structured Query Language (SQL).
  • Knowledge of SAS Visual Analytics.
     

Competencies

  • Care for People
  • Chase Excellence Every Day
  • Dare to Push Boundaries
  • Empower People to Act
  • Move Further Together

Pay Range

$77,105.26 - $100,226.82 

Pay will be based on several variables that are unique to each candidate, including but not limited to, job-related skills, experience, relevant education or training, etc.

Equal Employment Opportunities

KUS provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, including pregnancy and childbirth and related medical conditions, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, legally protected physical disability or mental disability, legally protected medical condition, marital status, sexual orientation, family care or medical leave status, protected veteran or military status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.  KUS complies with applicable law governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which KUS has offices.  The KUS EEO policy applies to all areas of employment, including recruitment, hiring, training, promotion, compensation, benefits, discipline, termination and all other privileges, terms and conditions of employment.

Disclaimer:  The above information on this job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification and for this position.  It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.

Employment Type

About Kia America

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Motor vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Irvine, CA, US

Year founded

1994

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