Data Engineering Intern - Summer 2027

Job description

Overview

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the U.S. and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter. Come work with the best! We offer opportunities, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. SPA: Objective. Responsive. Trusted.

Veracity Forecasting Portfolio (VF) is part of the Sea, Land, Air Division within Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. Our unique processes result in authoritative, data-driven analyses that assist enterprise managers with complex decision making. We offer our customers proven expertise in descriptive, predictive, and prescriptive analytics; advanced mathematics and computational techniques (a.k.a. data science); and software engineering. Our mission is to help enterprise leaders make complex, fully informed decisions and save money in the process.

We are seeking a motivated Data Engineer Intern to work with our data team on an important Department of Navy program.

Timeline for intern selection:

• Applications can be submitted and will be reviewed until 13 November 2026.
• Interviews will begin on 26 October and will conclude on 18 December 2026.
• Offers/decisions will be extended starting 18 November.

Responsibilities

You’ll support the design and documentation of scalable, reliable data architectures that enable analytics, reporting, and advanced data use cases. Working under the guidance of experienced data scientists, you will gain hands-on exposure to data modeling, system design, and architectural best practices while contributing to real projects. Specific responsibilities include:

• Assist in designing conceptual, logical, and physical data models for analytical platforms
• Support the development of data architecture diagrams, standards, and documentation
• Support design and implementation of cloud-based data pipelines in common industry environments
• Help evaluate data sources, integration patterns, and technology options
• Contribute to data modeling efforts using tools such as ER diagrams, dimensional modeling, and modern modeling approaches
• Participate in reviewing data pipeline and storage designs for scalability, performance, and maintainability
• Research emerging data architecture patterns, tools, and best practices; summarize findings for the team
• Assist with documenting data flows, data lineage, governance considerations, and architectural decisions
• Collaborate with data scientists/analysts and stakeholders to gather requirements and refine designs
• Support basic prototyping or proof-of-concept work related to data architecture solutions

Qualifications

Required qualifications

• Degree candidate in Data Science, Computer Science, or other appropriate technical discipline
• Strong foundational knowledge of databases
• Proficiency in Python (or similar scripting language) for data manipulation
• Familiarity with data modeling concepts (dimensional modeling, star/snowflake schemas) and basic ETL concepts
• Familiarity with cloud-based development tools
• Understanding of version control and collaborative development practices
• Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and eagerness to learn
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• US citizen with the ability to obtain/maintain a security clearance

Desired qualifications

• Academic project experience involving database design, data warehousing, or system architecture
• Exposure to cloud platforms and services such as S3, BigQuery, Redshift, Snowflake, or Databricks
• Familiarity with data modeling tools (like Lucidchart, draw.io, ERwin, or similar) and/or diagramming practices
• Understanding of data governance, data quality, and enterprise architecture concepts
• Experience with version control and collborative documentation tools

Pay Range Information

At SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain top talent. Elements of the compensation package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities. SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work. The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc. Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. Virginia, Pay Transparency Salary range: USD $23.00/Hr. - USD $33.00/Hr.