Microsoft Data Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Data & Analytics Engineer (Microsoft Fabric)
Primary Location: 2 days a week in Chicago's north Suburbs
Position Type: Direct hire
Overview
TalentFish is casting a line for a Data & Analytics Engineer to join a remote Contract-to-Hire opportunity with a client based in Illinois.
This role is ideal for a hands-on data professional who will serve as the client's internal Microsoft Fabric and Data Engineering subject matter expert (SME). The successful candidate will lead the design, development, and optimization of modern data solutions while driving best practices across Microsoft Fabric, Azure Databricks, SQL, and Power BI. You will partner with business and technical stakeholders to build scalable data platforms, establish governance standards, and deliver trusted analytics that support strategic business decisions.
What You Bring to the Role (Ideal Experience)

• 6–8+ years of experience in Data Engineering, Data Analytics, Data Architecture, or a related discipline.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and professional experience.
• Advanced SQL skills, including data modeling, query optimization, and performance tuning.
• Deep experience with Microsoft Fabric, including Lakehouse, Warehouse, OneLake, Data Factory, and Fabric Pipelines.
• Strong experience with Azure Databricks, Delta Lake, Spark, and modern ELT/ETL development.
• Experience designing scalable data architectures and enterprise data platforms.
• Strong understanding of data governance, security, metadata management, and data quality best practices.
• Experience integrating Microsoft Fabric with Azure Databricks using OneLake shortcuts and Delta Sharing.
• Proficiency with Power BI, including semantic models, DAX, and enterprise reporting.
• Experience with Azure DevOps, Git, CI/CD pipelines, and release management.
• Experience supporting enterprise analytics initiatives and collaborating with cross-functional teams.
• Strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

What You'll Do

• Serve as the client's internal Microsoft Fabric expert, providing technical leadership and guidance on enterprise data architecture and platform capabilities.
• Design, build, and maintain scalable data pipelines and modern data solutions using Microsoft Fabric, Azure Databricks, SQL, and Power BI.
• Architect and optimize Lakehouse and Warehouse solutions within Microsoft Fabric.
• Develop enterprise data models that support reporting, analytics, and AI initiatives.
• Design and implement robust ELT/ETL processes for structured and semi-structured data.
• Establish and promote data engineering best practices, governance standards, and data quality processes.
• Build secure, scalable, and high-performing data environments across Microsoft Fabric and Azure.
• Integrate Microsoft Fabric and Azure Databricks through OneLake shortcuts, Delta Sharing, and modern data architecture patterns.
• Partner with business stakeholders to translate requirements into scalable data and analytics solutions.
• Support Data Engineering, Analytics, BI, and Data Science teams by providing reliable and governed data assets.
• Develop executive dashboards, KPIs, and analytical reporting using Power BI.
• Manage Azure DevOps repositories, pipelines, and deployment processes supporting continuous delivery.
• Monitor and optimize platform performance, data pipelines, and storage utilization.
• Evaluate and recommend emerging Microsoft data technologies and Fabric capabilities to continuously improve the client's data ecosystem.
• Act as the primary point of contact for Microsoft Fabric architecture, data engineering strategy, and platform best practices across the organization.

Compensation Information
The expected compensation for this position is $110-130K yearly, depending on experience and qualifications. This Contract-to-Hire opportunity also offers comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, 401(k), and paid time off.
TalentFish is committed to pay transparency and equal opportunity. The salary range provided complies with applicable state and federal regulations.
This position requires authorization to work in the United States without current or future visa sponsorship.
All offers are contingent upon successful completion of a background check, which may include employment verification, education verification, reference checks, criminal history, drug screening, and other client-specific compliance requirements.
TalentFish is an employee-owned company transforming IT staffing through innovative technology, AI-driven recruiting, and an exceptional client and consultant experience.
TalentFish is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace for all employees.