Data engineering plays a vital role, and the engineers who work with databases will perform a vast array of tasks. Thus, you may want to gain more insights into the daily tasks of this career.
As a data engineer, I will bring you a detailed overview of this career through my daily work list. So, what is going on in a day in the life of a data engineer?
Let’s dive into this post for more details!
Overview
Data engineering is a popular IT profession. It focuses on building storage solutions for databases and systems. The application of this field is very diverse.
A data engineer can do everything related to databases and technology, such as:
- Design and develop data systems, databases, or storage systems
- Check and fix errors related to these assets
- Monitor and manage data systems
- Find solutions to improve the efficiency and stability of data systems
Unlike data analysts, data engineers focus more on the technical part. These engineers help store and maintain databases effectively.
Most tasks performed by data engineers revolve around managing and building data systems. Yet, the exact duties will vary based on the type of project.
The story below is based on my working experiences. It will give you more insights into data engineering. Scroll down to see more!
Job Overview and Workplace
Large tech companies have a data managing department. The team members in the department will help maintain and build the company’s data systems.
I’m currently working for a technology organization. There are many members within the department, such as data department chief, analysts, and engineers.
The experienced department chief will monitor a large database and maintain all of the resources. As a data engineer, my job is to build and handle the technical parts of the data system.
I will handle the tasks assigned by the manager and collaborate with the other members of the team. I will concentrate on the daily tasks in the next sections.
1. Task Reports (8:00 AM)
I always set my alarm clock at 8:00 AM and follow my morning routine for 30 minutes. I usually review all my tasks after waking up via email.
There’s also an online platform for the data department to exchange work and resources. Thus, the first thing I do is to check my emails and working platform.
Then, I will have breakfast and head to the company’s headquarters at 9:00 AM.
2. Maintenance and Optimization(9:00 AM)
I am at my work office at 9:00 AM and start with my data analysis tasks. One of my tasks is to fix a large volume of the company’s data pipeline.
It’s the data related to the sales revenue, product information, and everything listed on the company’s website. I use a programming language to write codes and deal with this huge database.
For example, I write the source codes to build a storage solution for a large database. I partner with the other cyber consultant in the firm on this project.
After developing the storage solution, I will perform thorough tests on it. I must ensure that there are no coding errors in the system.
If I identify any error, I will use the programming tool to deal with it. Also, I need to check the project’s speed and efficiency. If it doesn’t deliver the expected results, I need to adjust my codes and improve the system.
3. Reporting and Feedback (10:00 AM)
I usually finish a part of the project at 10:00 AM. Then, I will submit it to the data manager. He will review my work carefully and provide further feedback.
During this time, I will move on to the other storage solutions and help maintain their operations.
4. Team Meeting (1:00 PM)
After lunch, I will come back to my work and keep up with data engineering tasks. My current tasks revolve around building data storage solutions and databases to store the company’s information.
There are large projects that require a team of 3 or 4 data engineers working together. Before starting each project, I need to consult the other team members in the department carefully.
5. Review and Fixing (3:00 PM)
The department’s manager usually sends me detailed feedback on my projects at 3:00 PM. I will review the report carefully and edit my source codes according to his request.
Sometimes I will consult the manager and other engineers directly. It ensures that the edited projects can deliver the highest performance and quality.
Is Data Engineering For You?
ComputerCareers.org indicates that data engineers can earn an average salary of $120,813 in 2023. The number can vary based on working location and experience level. An experienced engineer can earn from $151,020 to $184,562.
Besides the impressive income, data engineers have plenty of opportunities to grow. As the data world is expanding at a rapid rate, companies will need more engineers to manage their systems.
On the other hand, this career requires a wide range of skills and expertise. You must be fluent in computer systems and data technology. It would be best if you constantly adapted to the new data software and solutions.
Also, this career requires high discipline and precision more than creativity. If you are good at IT skills, this career will be an excellent choice to consider.
Final Thoughts
As you see, most of my time revolves around dealing with databases and numbers. It mainly focuses on the technical side with repetitive tasks.
It can be said that this career is a dream profession with a high income and promising prospects. If it is suitable for your career interests and skills, don’t hesitate to pursue this amazing role!
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