Staff Data Engineer

This is a hybrid role based in our Chicago office and will require you to be in the office on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

What’s so interesting about this role?

At Grindr, we’re navigating an exciting time of innovation and growth. This role offers the opportunity to craft and optimize scalable data systems for one of the largest LGBTQ+ platforms in the world, impacting millions of users daily. You’ll play a pivotal role in shaping our AI/ML pipelines, automating processes for SOX compliance, and enhancing the performance of our data architecture as we scale. With cutting-edge technologies and a dynamic environment, this role is perfect for engineers looking to make a difference.

What’s the job? 

• Designing and optimizing ETL workflows in Apache Airflow to enable efficient data transfers between systems such as S3, Snowflake, and Kafka.
• Developing data products that align with internal governance, scalability, and security standards.
• Implementing real-time and batch data pipelines using tools like Airflow, Spark, and Snowflake.
• Taking ownership of database administration, logging, alerting, and SOX compliance processes.
• Spearheading initiatives to enhance data observability and reduce task failures across pipelines.
• Mentoring team members to develop their technical expertise.
• Engaging in R&D to incorporate innovative big data technologies into Grindr’s systems.
• Enforcing data governance policies and ensuring compliance with legal and security frameworks.

What we’ll love about you

• 8+ years of professional experience in big data engineering, with a proven track record of designing and building secure, scalable, and efficient data platforms for both real-time and batch processing at an enterprise level.
• 5+ years of experience implementing and optimizing ETL workflows and data pipelines using tools like Python, Airflow, Snowflake, and data lakehouse technologies (e.g., Iceberg).
• Expert-level proficiency with distributed data processing frameworks such as Spark, Streaming Data, and building real-time streaming pipelines.
• Practical experience with containerization tools (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes) and advanced knowledge of cloud data ecosystems.
• Deep understanding of data observability and governance, including creating systems for proactive monitoring, alerting, and SLA enforcement to ensure operational excellence.
• A strong background in mentoring and technical leadership, with experience guiding teams, setting technical direction, and solving complex challenges collaboratively.
• Hands-on experience with SOX compliance processes, data governance, and adhering to regulatory frameworks for secure data handling.
• Familiarity with machine learning operations (ML Ops) and the ability to design scalable pipelines that support AI/ML workflows is a strong plus.

We’ll really swoon if you are/have

• Experience with distributed computing technologies like Databricks or SageMaker.
• Familiarity with data classification, retention, and compliance practices.

A track record of solving problematic pipelines and improving observability in AI/ML workflows.    

What you'll love about us

• Mission and Impact: Grindr is building the global gayborhood in your pocket. Your role will impact the lives of millions of LGBTQ+ people around the world. Through our success, we are making a world where the lives of our community are free, equal, and just.
• Family Insurance: Insurance premium coverage for health, dental, and vision for you and partial coverage for your dependents.
• Retirement Savings: Generous 401K plan with 6% match and immediate vest in the U.S.
• Compensation: Industry-competitive compensation and eligibility for company bonus and equity programs.
• Queer-Inclusive Benefits: Industry-leading gender-affirming offerings with up to 90% cost coverage, access to Included Health, monthly stipends for HRT, and more.
• Additional Benefits: Flexible vacation policy, monthly stipends for cell phone, internet, wellness, food, and commuting, breakfast/lunch provided onsite, and yearly travel & leisure stipend.

About Grindr

Grindr is building the global gayborhood in your pocket. With more than 13.5 million monthly active users, Grindr has become a fundamental part of the LGBTQ+ community and is charting a path to make the world more free, equal, and just. Since 2015, Grindr for Equality has advanced safety, health, and human rights for millions of Grindr users and the global LGBTQ+ community in partnership with more than 100 community organizations in every region of the world.

Our next evolution is underway as a public company that continues to grow and build meaningful experiences for our users. From social issues to product innovations, we're setting audacious goals for our community and the business, and leveraging the latest tech stacks and a culture of engineering excellence to make it happen. At the heart of our work in this new chapter is a shared set of operating principles centered around cultivating curiosity, thinking big, setting and expediting our ambitious goals, and growing through iteration; all while keeping our users #1.

Grindr is headquartered in West Hollywood, California, with offices in the Bay Area, Chicago, and New York.With a track record of strong financial performance and plans for continued headcount growth, we’re building a team of talented, passionate, and open-minded people who want to disrupt the dating app space, innovate products, and advance LGBTQ+ culture. Come be a part of this exciting journey with us.

Grindr is an equal-opportunity employer

To learn more about how we handle the personal data of applicants, visit our Employee and Candidate Privacy Policy.

 

#LI-Hybrid

Grindr is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. This base pay range is for the U.S. and is not applicable to locations outside of the U.S. The actual base pay is dependent upon many factors, such as training, transferable skills, work experience, business needs, location, and market demands. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future. This role will also be eligible for equity, benefits, and a company bonus program.

Chicago Base Pay Range$166,000—$195,000 USD