Share
If you’ve ever Googled “ETL Developer job description,” you’ve probably noticed something frustrating: most of the results look almost identical. Bullet points. Technical jargon. No personality. And definitely no insight into what actually convinces a talented ETL developer to hit “apply.”
But here’s the problem—generic job descriptions don’t just look boring. They actively turn away the very people you want to attract. Skilled ETL developers aren’t looking for another bland list of SQL queries and data pipelines. They want to know why your role matters, what problems they’ll solve, and how their work will actually move the needle for your business.
👉 If you haven’t already, I recommend checking out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ before you dive in. It explains why generic posts fail to attract quality candidates—and shows the framework behind posts that inspire the right people to apply.
In this guide, we’ll take those same principles and apply them directly to the ETL Developer role. You’ll get:
- A plain-English definition of what an ETL Developer actually does
- Two ready-to-use job description templates (one for experienced hires, one for entry-level candidates)
- A breakdown of why these templates work
- A bad example to avoid
- Bonus tips, an AI caution section, and even a quick copy-paste version if you’re in a hurry
By the end, you’ll not only have a strong job description—you’ll understand how to write one that connects, inspires, and attracts the kind of ETL developer you’d be excited to hire.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down. WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
What an ETL Developer Actually Does
An ETL Developer is the person who makes sure your company’s data doesn’t just sit in silos—it flows where it needs to go, when it needs to get there, and in a format people can actually use.
In plain English, ETL stands for Extract, Transform, Load. That means:
- Extract data from different sources (like databases, APIs, CRMs, or spreadsheets).
- Transform it into a clean, structured format (removing duplicates, fixing errors, standardizing).
- Load it into a central warehouse or system so teams—whether it’s analytics, product, or finance—can actually trust the numbers they’re looking at.
But beyond the technical steps, an ETL Developer’s role is about trust and reliability. When your dashboards are wrong, when reports don’t add up, or when data is delayed, it doesn’t just frustrate teams—it slows down decisions. ETL Developers prevent that by building the pipelines and checks that make sure everyone, from analysts to executives, can rely on accurate, timely data.
That’s why skills like problem-solving, attention to detail, and communication matter just as much as knowing SQL or Python. At the end of the day, an ETL Developer isn’t just moving data—they’re making your entire business smarter.
Two Great ETL Developer Job Description Templates
✅ Job Description Template 1: Experienced ETL Developer
Job Title: Senior ETL Developer – Build Data Pipelines That Power Decisions
Location: Hybrid (New York, NY) | Full-Time | $105,000 – $125,000/year
A Quick Word From Our Team
🎥 Insert link to a Loom/YouTube video from the hiring manager or team introducing the role, why it matters, and what it’s like to work at DataWorks Solutions.
About DataWorks Solutions
At DataWorks Solutions, we help growing companies make smarter decisions by turning raw, messy information into clear insights. Our clients range from healthcare providers to e-commerce brands, and they all share the same need: trustworthy, accessible data.
We’re looking for a Senior ETL Developer to own our client data pipelines and help shape how data moves through their systems. If you thrive on problem-solving, love turning chaos into clarity, and want to join a team that values innovation and collaboration, this role is for you.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Design, build, and maintain ETL pipelines that move and transform large datasets across multiple platforms.
- Work with client teams to understand business requirements and translate them into technical solutions.
- Optimize SQL queries, Python scripts, and data workflows for performance and reliability.
- Implement monitoring, error handling, and data quality checks.
- Mentor junior developers and contribute to best practices across the team.
What We’re Looking For
- 4+ years of ETL development experience (consulting or multi-industry exposure a plus).
- Proficiency in SQL and one or more scripting languages (Python preferred).
- Experience with cloud data platforms (AWS Glue, Redshift, Snowflake, or similar).
- Strong problem-solving and communication skills—you know how to explain technical issues to non-technical stakeholders.
- Bonus: Familiarity with tools like dbt, Airflow, or Informatica.
Perks & Benefits
- Salary range: $105,000 – $125,000/year
- Health, dental, and vision insurance starting Day 1
- 401(k) with employer match
- 20 PTO days per year + 10 paid holidays
- Professional development stipend ($1,500/year) for courses, certifications, or conferences
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
At DataWorks, you won’t just build pipelines—you’ll build trust. The data you manage will directly impact how clients make multi-million-dollar decisions. You’ll work in a collaborative environment where ideas are encouraged, and your contributions are noticed. If you want a seat at the table where data truly drives strategy, this is it.
How to Apply
We respect your time. That’s why we use WorkScreen—so you’re evaluated based on strengths, not buzzwords.
Click the link below to complete your short, structured evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
✅ Job Description Template 2: Entry-Level ETL Developer (Willing to Train)
Job Title: Junior ETL Developer – Learn & Grow in Data Engineering
Location: Remote (US-based) | Full-Time | $60,000 – $75,000/year
A Quick Word From Our Team
🎥 Insert link to a Loom/YouTube video from the team welcoming applicants, explaining the supportive training environment, and why they’re excited to mentor new hires.
About DataWorks Solutions
At DataWorks Solutions, we believe great data engineers aren’t born—they’re trained. We’re a consultancy that helps businesses clean, structure, and make sense of their data. While many companies look only for years of experience, we’re looking for passionate learners who want to grow into the role.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Assist in building and maintaining ETL pipelines under senior developer guidance.
- Learn how to write and optimize SQL queries and Python scripts.
- Help test and monitor data workflows for accuracy and performance.
- Document processes and share learnings with the team.
- Participate in internal workshops and mentorship sessions.
What We’re Looking For
- Strong analytical mindset and curiosity about data.
- Basic knowledge of SQL or any programming language (Python preferred).
- Ability to learn quickly and apply feedback.
- Organized and detail-oriented with strong communication skills.
- Nice to have (but not required): exposure to databases, cloud tools, or data visualization software.
Perks & Benefits
- Salary range: $60,000 – $75,000/year
- Remote-friendly work environment
- Health, dental, and vision insurance after 60 days
- 15 PTO days + paid holidays
- Ongoing mentorship and structured training program
- Clear career path to mid-level ETL Developer within 18–24 months
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
This isn’t just a job—it’s a career start. At DataWorks, you’ll get the support, mentorship, and real-world experience to grow from entry-level into a confident data engineer. You won’t just sit on the sidelines; you’ll be building pipelines that matter while learning alongside seasoned developers who want to see you succeed.
How to Apply
We respect your time. That’s why we use WorkScreen—so you’re evaluated based on strengths, not buzzwords.
Click the link below to complete your short, structured evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache. WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Breakdown of Why These ETL Developer Job Posts Work
1. Clear, Specific Job Titles
Instead of just “ETL Developer,” the posts use:
- Senior ETL Developer – Build Data Pipelines That Power Decisions
- Junior ETL Developer – Learn & Grow in Data Engineering
Both titles go beyond a label. They describe the level, purpose, and promise of the role. That’s what grabs attention in a sea of vague listings.
2. Humanized Intros With Context
Each job post starts by setting the stage—what DataWorks Solutions does, why the role exists, and what the candidate will contribute. This helps candidates immediately picture where they fit in and why it matters.
3. Video From the Team
Adding a Loom or YouTube video just before the “About Us” section makes the post more personal and memorable. Candidates see the people behind the role, not just a wall of text. This builds trust and connection right away.
4. Transparent Salary & Benefits
Both versions clearly show the salary ranges, PTO, and perks. No guessing games. This sets expectations upfront and builds credibility—something top candidates look for before applying.
5. Respectful Application Process
Instead of “Send your CV and wait,” both posts include a WorkScreen link. This tells candidates:
- You respect their time.
- You’ll evaluate based on skills, not just resumes.
- Everyone gets a structured, fair shot.
This kind of clarity improves candidate experience and sets you apart from companies that ghost applicants.
6. Human Tone That Connects
Notice the difference in wording:
- ❌ “Must have 5+ years of experience in data integration.”
- ✅ “4+ years of ETL development experience (consulting or multi-industry exposure a plus).”
The second feels approachable. It tells the truth but avoids sounding cold or corporate. The entry-level version also encourages passion and growth—even if candidates don’t tick every box.
7. Purpose Beyond Tasks
The responsibilities aren’t just a list of duties. They’re framed around impact:
- “Build trust.”
- “Help shape how data moves.”
- “Turn chaos into clarity.”
This shifts the role from “just another pipeline job” to something meaningful—exactly what thoughtful candidates look for.
8. Growth & Learning Opportunities
The junior post highlights mentorship, a career path, and training. This tells ambitious applicants, “We’ll invest in you.” The senior post emphasizes impact and leadership opportunities, which appeal to experienced hires.
Bad ETL Developer Job Description Example (And Why It Falls Short)
Job Title: ETL Developer
Company: DataWorks Solutions
Location: New York, NY
Type: Full-Time
Job Summary
We are looking for an ETL Developer to design, develop, and support ETL processes. The candidate will be responsible for ensuring data quality and performance of data pipelines.
Responsibilities
- Develop and maintain ETL jobs.
- Monitor data processes and troubleshoot issues.
- Collaborate with other teams to meet data requirements.
- Ensure data quality and compliance with company standards.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field.
- 3–5 years of ETL development experience.
- Strong SQL skills.
- Knowledge of ETL tools and data warehouses.
- Ability to work independently.
How to Apply
Send your CV and cover letter to hr@dataworks.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Fails
- Generic Job Title
Just “ETL Developer” with no level, mission, or context. Nothing to help the candidate picture why this job is different from dozens of others. - Cold Introduction
The job summary is vague and robotic: “responsible for ensuring data quality.” There’s no context about the company, no mission, and no reason why the role exists. - No Salary or Perks
Leaving out compensation and benefits signals a lack of transparency. Candidates are left guessing—and most will just move on to another listing. - Vague Responsibilities
“Develop and maintain ETL jobs” could mean anything. There’s no detail about tools, scale, or impact. It feels like copy-paste filler. - Closed-Off Requirements
The rigid “3–5 years required” excludes capable learners, while the “Bachelor’s degree” line is outdated and unnecessary for many strong data engineers. - Dismissive Hiring Process
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” makes applicants feel disposable. Instead of building trust, it signals indifference. - Zero Personality in the CTA
“Send your CV to hr@dataworks.com” is the bare minimum. There’s no warmth, no brand voice, and no effort to make candidates feel respected.
Bonus Tips to Make Your ETL Developer Job Post Stand Out
1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice
Candidates today are wary of scams. Adding a simple line builds trust:
“We take your privacy seriously. We will never ask for payment, banking details, or sensitive personal information during the hiring process.”
This reassures applicants that you run a safe, legitimate process.
2. Highlight Leave & Flexibility
Serious developers value work-life balance. Instead of keeping it vague, include specifics:
“Enjoy 20 PTO days per year plus 10 paid holidays, so you can recharge and come back stronger.”
Concrete details about leave and flex policies instantly make your job more attractive.
3. Showcase Training & Growth Opportunities
ETL technology evolves fast—cloud platforms, orchestration tools, new frameworks. Show candidates you’ll invest in keeping them current:
“We offer a $1,500 annual learning stipend for certifications, courses, or conferences, plus internal mentorship opportunities.”
This appeals to ambitious developers who want more than “just a job.”
4. Include a Short Video From the Team
A simple Loom or YouTube clip from the hiring manager or teammates gives your post a personal touch. It shows authenticity and helps candidates picture the people they’d be working with.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
5. Call Out the Real Impact of the Role
Don’t just talk about “pipelines.” Show what they enable:
“The data you manage will directly power analytics that guide million-dollar decisions for our clients.”
This makes the role feel mission-driven, not just technical.
A Quick Word of Caution on Using AI for Job Descriptions
Lately, a lot of hiring teams are leaning on AI to generate job posts in seconds. Even popular ATS platforms now offer “one-click job description generators.”
Here’s the issue: if you use AI blindly, you end up with the same problem we saw earlier—generic, lifeless job descriptions that could apply to any company.
Why AI-Generated Posts Fall Flat
- They attract the wrong kind of candidates (people applying to anything and everything, not those aligned with your role).
- They fail to capture your company’s culture, mission, and values—the things top talent actually cares about.
- They make your role sound like everyone else’s, which hurts your ability to stand out.
The Smarter Way to Use AI
AI is a fantastic tool—if you use it as a writing partner, not a replacement. Here’s how to make it work for you:
- Feed AI the raw ingredients.
Provide context like:- What your company does
- Why the ETL Developer role matters
- Tools and platforms you use (Snowflake, Redshift, dbt, Airflow, etc.)
- The tone you want (human, approachable, transparent)
- Growth opportunities and perks
- What your company does
- Give it a clear prompt.
Example:
“Help me write a job post for a Senior ETL Developer at DataWorks Solutions. We’re a consultancy that builds data pipelines for mid-market companies. This person will design, optimize, and monitor data workflows. Our culture is collaborative and growth-focused. We offer $105k–$125k, a learning stipend, and flexible PTO. We want the tone to be approachable and mission-driven. Here are additional notes to get us started, [paste notes]” - Use AI to polish, not to replace.
Once AI gives you a draft, layer in the human touches—team video, culture, growth path, and values. That’s the difference between “another generic listing” and “a job post that inspires.”
✅ Bottom line: AI can help speed things up, but it can’t (and shouldn’t) replace your company’s story. Use it wisely—feed it context, then edit with care.
If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
Need a Quick Copy-Paste ETL Developer Job Description?
✅ Option 1: Conversational Job Description Template (Culture-First Style)
Job Title: ETL Developer – Help Us Build Data Pipelines That Matter
Location: [Insert Location or “Remote”]
Job Type: Full-Time
Salary Range: [Insert Salary Range]
About Us
We’re [Insert Company Name], a team dedicated to helping businesses make smarter decisions through reliable, accessible data. We believe great data isn’t just about numbers—it’s about trust, clarity, and impact.
The Role
We’re looking for an ETL Developer who can help us transform raw information into insights that drive real-world results. You’ll be building and maintaining data pipelines, working with SQL and Python, and making sure our data is accurate, clean, and ready to power decision-making.
What You’ll Do
- Build and maintain ETL workflows across multiple sources
- Collaborate with stakeholders to understand data needs
- Monitor pipelines, troubleshoot errors, and ensure data quality
- Optimize SQL queries and transformations for performance
What We’re Looking For
- 2+ years of ETL or data engineering experience
- Strong SQL skills and some experience with Python
- Familiarity with cloud platforms (AWS, GCP, or Azure)
- A problem-solver who cares about details as much as speed
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary [Insert Range]
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- PTO + paid holidays
- Annual learning stipend for certifications or courses
Why This Job Matters
The pipelines you build will help teams across the business trust their dashboards, make faster decisions, and avoid costly mistakes. In short—you’ll be the reason our data tells the truth.
How to Apply
We respect your time. That’s why we use WorkScreen—so you’re evaluated based on strengths, not buzzwords.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
✅ Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Template
Job Title: ETL Developer
Location: [Insert Location or “Remote”]
Job Type: Full-Time
Salary Range: [Insert Salary Range]
Job Brief
We are seeking an ETL Developer to design, build, and maintain data pipelines. The right candidate will have strong SQL skills, experience with data transformation, and the ability to ensure high-quality, reliable datasets for business teams.
Responsibilities
- Extract, transform, and load data from multiple sources into data warehouses
- Write and optimize SQL queries for data extraction and reporting
- Maintain and monitor ETL processes for performance and scalability
- Ensure data accuracy, security, and compliance with standards
- Collaborate with analysts, engineers, and stakeholders to deliver solutions
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience)
- 2+ years of ETL development experience
- Strong SQL and Python skills
- Experience with ETL tools (e.g., Talend, Informatica, dbt, Airflow)
- Knowledge of cloud data platforms (AWS Redshift, Snowflake, or BigQuery)
- Strong communication and problem-solving abilities
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary [Insert Range]
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- PTO + flexible work arrangements
- Professional growth opportunities
How to Apply
We respect your time. That’s why we use WorkScreen—so you’re evaluated based on strengths, not just resumes.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
Next Step: Let WorkScreen Handle the Hard Part
Writing a great ETL Developer job description is only the first step. The real challenge comes next: sorting through applications and figuring out who actually has the skills to deliver.
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
With Workscreen, you can:
✅ Quickly identify your most promising candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
✅ Go beyond the résumé with real-world skill tests
Workscreen allows you to easily administer one-click skill tests. This way you can Assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
✅ Eliminate low-effort applicants automatically
Workscreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants—including those who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
👉 The result? You hire faster, smarter, and with more confidence.
No more wasting hours sifting through junk applications. No more risky hires based only on résumés. Just clarity, speed, and better decisions.
Start your next hire with Workscreen today and see the difference.
FAQ
Salaries vary by location, experience, and industry, but here’s a general range:
- Entry-level ETL Developers: $65,000 – $80,000/year
- Mid-level ETL Developers: $85,000 – $105,000/year
- Senior ETL Developers: $110,000 – $130,000/year (sometimes higher for specialized roles in big data or cloud-native environments).
Candidates with expertise in modern cloud tools (Snowflake, Redshift, BigQuery, dbt, Airflow) often command higher salaries. Transparency about pay in your job post helps attract the right applicants and builds trust.
A strong ETL Developer brings both technical expertise and problem-solving ability. Look for:
- Proficiency in SQL (essential)
- Experience with ETL tools (Informatica, Talend, dbt, Airflow, AWS Glue, SSIS)
- Scripting/programming knowledge (Python is common)
- Familiarity with cloud data platforms (AWS, GCP, Azure)
- Strong understanding of data modeling, warehousing, and governance
- Soft skills: attention to detail, problem-solving, and clear communication
The roles often overlap, but generally:
- ETL Developers focus on building, optimizing, and maintaining the pipelines that move and transform data.
- Data Engineers have a broader scope—designing data architecture, integrating systems, and sometimes managing infrastructure.
In smaller teams, the ETL Developer may wear both hats.
The roles often overlap, but generally:
- ETL Developers focus on building, optimizing, and maintaining the pipelines that move and transform data.
- Data Engineers have a broader scope—designing data architecture, integrating systems, and sometimes managing infrastructure.
In smaller teams, the ETL Developer may wear both hats.
5. What industries hire ETL Developers the most?
ETL Developers are in demand across any industry that relies on structured data, including:
- Financial services
- Healthcare and insurance
- Retail and e-commerce
- SaaS and tech companies
- Government and public services
Basically, anywhere data needs to move from raw systems into clean, trusted reports.
