ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Exempt Data Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Boot Barn

Data Scientist

Irvine, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

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 ...

California Association of Realtors

Be Seen First

Senior Data Platform Architect

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$145K - $169K/yr

Exempt Benefits : Competitive benefits package including health, dental, vision, retirement plan, PTO, and more! KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Ingestion and Data Engineering * Design, build, and operate ...

ERM

Senior Data Specialist (Field Based)

San Jose, CA

$50.28 - $69.50/hr

ERM is seeking a Senior Data Specialist in the San Francisco Bay Area to support data engineering ... exempt. An employee's pay position within this range will be based on several factors including ...

Boot Barn

Director, Data Science

Irvine, CA

EXEMPT Summary Boot Barn is where community comes first. We thrive on togetherness, collaboration ... Ensure strong collaboration with Data Engineering and AI/ML Engineering teams to productionize ...

ALO

Principal AI Engineer

Beverly Hills, CA

$180K - $235K/yr

OVERVIEW Join ALO's Artificial Intelligence and Data Science team to explore the frontiers of ... exempt position. Please note that actual salaries will vary based on factors including but not ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

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