Freelance Python Developer

As a Freelance Python Developer at dlt, you will take on significant responsibilities that include enhancing our open-source library by adding Iceberg support. This involves integrating this functionality into existing data destinations, such as Snowflake and BigQuery, and developing interfaces for reading Iceberg data directly from Python. Your contributions will help streamline data engineering tasks for users, making their experience smoother and more efficient.

To excel in the Freelance Python Developer position at dlt, candidates should be well-versed in Python and possess a solid understanding of the dlt library itself. Familiarity with the Iceberg ecosystem, including tech table structures and metastores, is crucial. Experience working with data platforms like Snowflake and BigQuery, along with knowledge of pyiceberg and DuckDB, will significantly enhance your application.

The initial contract duration for the Freelance Python Developer role at dlt is expected to be 3-4 weeks of full-time work. However, there is potential for follow-up projects in the future, providing candidates with opportunities for continued collaboration and contribution to exciting open-source and commercial endeavors.

The Freelance Python Developer will primarily work on enhancing the dlt open-source library by adding Iceberg support, which involves integrating with existing data storage solutions like Snowflake and BigQuery. Additionally, candidates may work on projects that involve writing data, managing catalog support, and table maintenance in the Iceberg ecosystem, making this role diverse and engaging.

While prior experience with open-source projects is not strictly required for the Freelance Python Developer position at dlt, it is definitely advantageous. Familiarity with open-source workflows can help you navigate the collaborative environment better and contribute effectively to both OSS and commercial projects.

In your response, highlight your extensive experience with Python, focusing on specific projects where you've utilized it. Relate this experience to your understanding of how dlt operates, particularly in transforming unstructured data. Mention any specific modules or functions you've worked with that are relevant to the dlt library.

Share your knowledge of the Iceberg project and its significance in data management. Discuss aspects like table structures, how metastores function, and transaction management within Iceberg. This will demonstrate your understanding of the technology and how it integrates with data platforms like Snowflake and BigQuery.

Provide an example of a challenging data integration project, detailing the technologies used and the specific obstacles faced. Explain how you approached the problem, showcasing your problem-solving skills and technical knowledge, and emphasize the successful outcome.

Discuss your methodology for adding features, emphasizing the importance of understanding the current system. Talk about how you would analyze the existing code, document your changes, and ensure that new features align with the overall architecture of the dlt library, before rigorous testing for stability.

Describe the debugging tools you prefer, such as using Python's built-in debugger or external tools like PyCharm. Discuss strategies like logging, breakpoint debugging, and unit testing to ensure code quality and reliability, which will be relevant in tackling issues within the dlt library.

Express your commitment to continuous learning by mentioning resources like online courses, coding boot camps, and communities such as GitHub or Stack Overflow. Highlight specific workshops or webinars focusing on Python advancements and technologies related to data engineering, showcasing your proactive approach.

Share specific examples of projects where you've utilized cloud data services like Snowflake and BigQuery. Describe how you managed data transfer, developed queries, and integrated these services into your workflows, demonstrating your hands-on experience in cloud environments relevant to the dlt role.

Talk about how you would approach implementing Iceberg support from a technical standpoint, outlining steps like understanding the existing architecture, identifying integration points for Snowflake, BigQuery, and Python interfaces, while ensuring alignment with the project's overall goals. Show your critical thinking processes here.

Discuss your task management strategy, which might involve using tools such as Trello or Asana for organizing tasks and setting priorities. Emphasize the importance of deadlines and effective communication with team members to ensure that all projects run smoothly and are delivered on time.

Share your passion for open-source development, mentioning aspects like community collaboration, the ability to learn from others, and contributing to meaningful projects like dlt. Speak to the joy of being part of a larger movement that values transparency and inclusivity in technology.