Contract Data Engineer
Role summary
Studio Movie Grill is seeking a highly skilled, self-directed Data Engineer for a 3-month contract role. This is a hands-on, execution-focused position responsible for rapidly stabilizing and modernizing the company's data environment. The Data Engineer will assess, prioritize, and rebuild core data pipelines, replacing Alteryx-based ETL workflows with scalable, code-driven solutions. Key responsibilities include improving data warehouse performance, implementing data quality checks, and establishing consistent ETL patterns and error handling frameworks. The role requires strong expertise in SQL Server, coding for ETL, data modeling, and scripting/automation tools like Python or PowerShell. C#/.NET experience is a plus. This is a hybrid role with up to 50% remote flexibility, requiring 2-3 days per week in the Dallas, TX office.
SMG Contract Data Engineer
At Studio Movie Grill, we’re all about movies and dedicated to making a real impact in the communities we serve. We’ve led the way in in-theater dining, transforming the movie-going experience. As we continue our legacy, we’re seeking a highly skilled, self-directed Data Engineer who thrives in a fast-paced, high-impact environment. If you’re ready to take full ownership of a critical data transformation initiative, we want you to be part of our journey.
In this role, you will operate as the sole Data Engineer, responsible for rapidly stabilizing and modernizing our data environment. This is a hands-on, execution-focused contract role where success is defined by delivering working solutions quickly. You will assess, prioritize, and rebuild core data pipelines while establishing a scalable foundation for the future.
What You’ll Do:
- Rapidly assess and replace Alteryx-based ETL workflows with scalable, code-driven pipelines
- Take full ownership of prioritizing and rebuilding high-impact data pipelines with minimal ramp-up time
- Stabilize unreliable or undocumented data flows while replacements are developed
- Improve data warehouse performance through query optimization, indexing, and structural enhancements
- Establish consistent ETL patterns, scheduling processes, and error handling frameworks
- Implement data quality checks, validation processes, and alerting mechanisms
- Reduce manual reporting efforts through automation and pipeline improvements
- Deliver a maintainable and scalable ETL framework for long-term use
What We’re Looking For:
- Strong expertise in SQL Server, including query optimization, stored procedures, indexing, and execution plans
- Proven experience building ETL pipelines using code-based solutions (not low-code tools)
- Deep understanding of data modeling, including star/snowflake schemas and warehouse design
- Experience with scripting and automation tools such as Python, PowerShell, or similar
- C# or .NET experience is a strong plus
- Highly self-directed with the ability to assess unfamiliar environments and prioritize independently
- Ability to execute quickly and deliver working solutions under aggressive timelines
- Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
Why Join Us?
- Full Ownership: Lead and execute a critical data transformation initiative independently
- High-Impact Work: Your contributions will directly improve system reliability and business operations
- Fast-Paced Execution: Deliver meaningful results within days and weeks, not months
- Direct Access to Leadership: Work closely with senior leadership, primarily the CTO
- Technical Influence: Shape the future state of data engineering at Studio Movie Grill
Perks:
- Project-based engagement – 3-month contract
- High visibility – Direct impact on business-critical systems
- Flexible work environment – Up to 50% remote (Monday/Tuesday in office)
- Opportunity for future engagement – Help define long-term data engineering needs
Pay: $100.00 - $130.00 per hour
Application Question(s):
- What is your hourly compensation expectations for this role?
Experience:
- building ETL pipelines in code: 2 years (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Dallas, TX 75251 (Required)
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Dallas, TX 75251