Senior Ab Initio Developer - AVP

As a Senior Ab Initio Developer - AVP at Citi, you'll be responsible for developing and maintaining ETL processes primarily using the Ab Initio tool. This includes designing efficient graphs and plans, gathering requirements from various stakeholders, and ensuring that deliverables align with business specifications. You'll manage the production rollout of developed solutions and provide Level 3 support, minimizing issues in deployed code while mentoring junior team members.

To qualify for the Senior Ab Initio Developer - AVP position at Citi, candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related fields, along with significant experience in Ab Initio, SQL, and Oracle databases. Proficiency in Linux/Shell Scripting, as well as extensive SDLC experience, are also essential. While not required, having experience in Reference/Corporate Action Data and familiarity with tools like IBM DataStage will be advantageous.

At Citi, career development for a Senior Ab Initio Developer - AVP is robust, with access to various learning and development resources tailored to help you grow your skills and expertise. You'll have opportunities to work on stimulating projects, collaborate with global teams, and receive mentorship. Additionally, with a hybrid working model, you can also maintain a work-life balance while advancing your career in a supportive environment.

Citi is deeply committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. As a Senior Ab Initio Developer - AVP, you'll join an environment where every employee feels valued. Citi actively encourages participation from individuals of all backgrounds, promoting equality in recruitment processes and developing programs aimed at nurturing talent from diverse groups to enhance innovation and performance across the organization.

Senior Ab Initio Developers - AVP at Citi enjoy a range of competitive benefits, including 27 days of annual leave plus bank holidays, private medical care, and life insurance, along with a discretional annual performance-related bonus. You’ll also have access to a pension plan, paid parental leave, and various employee discounts, all aimed at supporting your well-being and work-life balance.

When discussing your experience with Ab Initio in an interview, highlight specific projects where you utilized Ab Initio GDE, EME, and Conduct>It. Provide examples of the graphs and data flows you created, the challenges faced, and how you overcame them. Demonstrating a solid understanding of its functionality and your role in the SDLC will showcase your capability.

In your response, emphasize the importance of communication and collaboration. Describe how you engage with business and technical stakeholders through meetings and consultations to gain a comprehensive understanding of their needs. Share examples of how you translate these requirements into technical solutions while ensuring compliance with Citi's development standards.

Think about a specific situation where you faced a significant challenge with data processing or integration. Outline the problem, the steps you took to analyze the situation, and the ultimate solution. Highlight the skills you utilized, such as SQL optimization or debugging Ab Initio graphs, showcasing your analytical and problem-solving abilities.

For this question, discuss best practices you follow when working with ETL frameworks, such as modular design, documentation, and adhering to coding standards. Share examples where these strategies improved efficiency and maintainability in your past projects, and emphasize your commitment to continuous improvement.

When addressing this question, emphasize your time management skills and prioritization techniques. Share instances where you successfully delivered quality work under pressure by breaking tasks into manageable chunks, collaborating with team members, and employing efficient coding practices to maximize output without compromising quality.

Discuss the scenarios where IBM DataStage could offer advantages, such as specific project requirements that align better with its features or the team's existing expertise. Explain your adaptability and willingness to leverage different technologies based on project needs while maintaining a strong foundation in Ab Initio.

During this response, stress the importance of data validation and testing. Explain your approach to implementing data quality checks, monitoring ETL runs, and resolving discrepancies. Provide examples where your proactive measures ensured the integrity of the data delivered to the business lines.

Detail your experience with complementary tools like SQL, Oracle, and Unix/Linux scripting, which support your Ab Initio development. Discuss how using version control tools like SVN or GIT can enhance project collaboration and maintenance of code, positioning you as a well-rounded developer.

Share your mentoring philosophy, emphasizing the importance of patience, encouragement, and providing constructive feedback. Give examples of how you have helped junior developers grow their skills and confidence, illustrating your commitment to knowledge sharing and teamwork.

In your response, convey your passion for working with data and the critical role ETL technologies play in transforming raw data into actionable insights. Share personal experiences that inspired you to pursue this field and your enthusiasm for continuous learning and staying updated with the latest technology trends.