Freelance Microsoft Data Engineer Jobs in Colorado

Senior Data Engineer

We are seeking a highly motivated and technically skilled Senior Data Engineer to join our Application Development team. This role will serve as a senior technical contributor responsible for designing, building, optimizing, and supporting enterprise data pipelines, database platforms, and data integration processes that power critical operational and analytical systems.

The ideal candidate brings deep hands-on experience with Microsoft data technologies, strong SQL and ETL expertise, and a proven ability to improve performance, reliability, scalability, and security across the data ecosystem. This role is primarily focused on supporting and improving on-premises data systems today, while also helping position the organization for future cloud adoption and modernization.

The right candidate should understand core cloud and Microsoft Fabric concepts well enough to contribute to migration planning, partner with others on modernization efforts, and grow into that next phase. This person must be a fast learner who can quickly understand complex business processes and technologies, adapt to changing priorities, and thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities & Duties

• Data Engineering & Process Development
  • Lead the design, development, and support of robust ETL and ELT pipelines using tools such as Azure Data Factory, SSIS, SQL Server, Microsoft Fabric, or equivalent Microsoft-based technologies.
  • Design, develop, and optimize data models, data marts, and database structures that support enterprise data processing, operational reporting, and downstream integrations.
  • Create and maintain source-to-target mappings, data dictionaries, process documentation, and end-to-end data flow diagrams to support maintainability and operational continuity.
• Database Administration, Performance & Platform Support
  • Perform DBA-related tasks for SQL Server environments, including database maintenance, job monitoring, backup validation, index management, query optimization, and general health checks.
  • Troubleshoot and tune database and ETL performance, identify bottlenecks, and implement improvements that enhance throughput, reliability, and scalability of critical data processes.
• Provide server and application support for data platforms, including production issue resolution, deployment support, incident response, and coordination with infrastructure and application teams.
  • Support data platform security by implementing and maintaining access controls, permissions, auditability, and operational best practices to protect data integrity and comply with enterprise standards.
  • Work primarily within a Microsoft data environment; experience supporting Oracle databases is a plus. Support evaluation, planning, and readiness activities related to cloud migration and modernization, helping bridge current on-premises operations with future-state cloud and Fabric-based capabilities.
• Data Governance, Quality & Operational Excellence
  • Ensure data quality, lineage, reconciliation, and governance across enterprise data assets and critical business processes.
  • Collaborate closely with Application Development, Corporate Technologies, business stakeholders, and adjacent engineering teams to support data operations and continuous process improvement.
  • Participate in code reviews, mentor junior team members, and proactively identify opportunities to modernize tools, automate support tasks, and strengthen operational resiliency.

Required Experience, Skills, & Competencies

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 7+ years of experience in data engineering, database development, or data warehouse engineering, with demonstrated success in senior-level technical roles.
• Advanced proficiency in SQL, ETL/ELT development, data modeling, and performance tuning in Microsoft-centric environments.
• Hands-on experience with SQL Server, SSIS, Azure Data Factory, and related Microsoft data technologies; familiarity with Microsoft Fabric, cloud data platforms, or cloud migration concepts is highly desirable. Oracle experience is a plus.
• Strong experience supporting production data processes, troubleshooting incidents, and balancing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated ability to learn quickly, adapt to new technologies and business domains, and work independently while partnering effectively across teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with database administration, security support, and server support for enterprise data platforms. Exposure to cloud technologies, Microsoft Fabric, or data platform migration initiatives is preferred, with the ability and interest to upskill as the organization evolves.
• Experience with Python, PowerShell, or other scripting languages used to automate data operations and support activities.
• Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines, DevOps practices, data governance frameworks, and compliance-oriented controls.

A reasonable estimate of the total compensation range for this role is $135,000-$165,000. The actual salary offer to the successful candidate will be based on job-related education, geographic location, training, licensure and certification, and other factors. CoreVest also offers a competitive benefit package including discretionary corporate bonus program, multiple health plans, STD and LTD options, company sponsored life insurance, fitness reimbursement, paid parental leave, time to volunteer, Paid Time off, ESPP, and 401K matching.

At Redwood Trust, we are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where diversity is valued, and everyone has the opportunity to thrive. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.