Astro Data Engineer

Description

Fully remote - 5 month contract

The City of Fort Collins is seeking an advanced Data Engineer with deep expertise in Astronomer/Astro (managed Airflow) and strong Python development skills. This role will lead the implementation of Astronomer and dbt (Data Build Tool) within our data environment, ensuring best practices, scalability, and cost optimization. You will work closely with our data team to design, implement, and orchestrate data workflows while providing knowledge transfer and guidance.

• Data Architect (your primary point of contact).
• Three Data Engineers:
  One advanced engineer with 30+ years at the City (experienced but prefers proven best practices).
• Two Engineers open to new technologies, including one highly active in open‑source and CI/CD.
• The team is collaborative, respectful, and laid‑back, valuing independence and self‑motivation.

• Astro
• DBT
• Cosmos
• Python

• Implement Astronomer/Astro and dbt using Cosmos for data orchestration and transformation.
• Design and develop reusable, maintainable data workflows.
• Ensure data quality, integrity, and cost‑effective solutions.
• Provide training and guidance to the data team on best practices.
• Collaborate closely with team members to ensure smooth integration and knowledge transfer.

• Minimum 3+ years in data engineering with Astronomer/Airflow and Python.
• Preference for candidates who have completed at least one full Astronomer implementation or worked in a mature environment with these tools.
• Total IT experience: ideally 5+ years.
• Familiarity with SQL Server, Oracle, Excel, and API integrations (nice to have: ESRI).

• Experience with dbt (Data Build Tool) for data transformation.
• API integration skills for connecting diverse data sources.
• Familiarity with CI/CD practices – Azure Dev Ops/Git.

Expert Level

We reserve the right to pay above or below the posted wage based on factors unrelated to sex, race, or any other protected classification.

• Medical, dental & vision
• 401(k)/Roth
• Basic/Supplemental Life & AD&D
• Short and long‑term disability
• HSA & DCFSA
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Company Paid Time off or State Sick Leave

The pay range for this position is $50.00 - $68.00/hr.

Contract position based out of Fort Collins, CO. This is a fully remote position.

This position is anticipated to close on Feb 25, 2026.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.