Forward Deployed Data Engineer (Manassas, VA / Senior) [Secret]

Important skills

• Expertise in time-series data processing and analysis (windowing, resampling, interpolation, etc.)
• Proficiency in Python and Rust for data engineering workflows.
• Experience with binary message parsing.
• Experience with row-based & columnar-based data formats.
• Experience with OLTP & OLAP databases.
• Knowledge of distributed systems, streaming architectures, and batch processing patterns.
• Hands-on experience with a batch orchestrator such as Dagster/Airflow.
• Hands-on experience with a streaming platform such as Redpanda/Kafka.
• Hands-on experience with binary message formats such as Protobuf.

Nice to have

What we offer

• Unlimited PTO — Take the time you need to recharge and maintain work-life balance.
• Dedicated sick time — Your health and well-being come first.
• Comprehensive health and benefits – Medical, dental, and vision coverage to keep you and your family protected.
• 11 Paid Holidays — Enjoy time off throughout the year to celebrate and spend time with loved ones.
• Professional development — Educational opportunities and resources to help you grow your skills and advance your career.
• Collaborative environment — Work directly with leadership in our flat organizational structure, where your ideas and contributions matter.
• Mission-driven work — Contribute to projects that directly support national security and make a real-world impact.
• Growth opportunities — Join us during an exciting expansion phase where you can help shape our future.

Additional benefit opportunities when you choose Spear AI:

• 401(k) with company match.
• Onsite / Remote / Flexible work arrangements or hybrid options (position dependent).
• Relocation assistance (position dependent).
• Referral bonuses.
• Performance bonuses.
• Life insurance and disability coverage.
• Technology home office setup stipend.
• Professional certification reimbursement (position dependent).
• We offer competitive compensation tailored to your experience, location, and the impact you’ll make. We’re committed to equitable pay and will share a range aligned to your level and geography during the hiring process. In accordance with state law, candidates in jurisdictions such as CA, CO, WA, NY, and others, where applicable, will be provided a good-faith salary range upon request and throughout the hiring process. This is a full-time, exempt position under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and is not eligible for overtime pay. Compensation for this position is provided on a salaried basis and is not subject to reduction based on hours worked. At Spear AI, you’ll find more than just a job; you’ll join a mission-driven team where your work directly contributes to national security. Our flat organizational structure means your voice matters, your ideas reach leadership, and your impact is visible. As we grow, we’re committed to building robust processes and infrastructure that support both our mission and our people. We value collaboration, continuous improvement, and the expertise each team member brings to the table. If you’re looking for a place to grow professionally while working on projects that truly matter, we’d love to hear from you.