Job Title: Response Data Engineer, 6mo Contract

Company Name: World Central Kitchen

Job Details: RemoteContract

Job Url: https://hiring.cafe/viewjob/jkhl5c1zcm8spvy0

Job Description: Posted 3d agoResponse Data Engineer, 6mo Contract@ World Central KitchenView All JobsWebsiteUnited StatesRemoteContractResponsibilities:Maintain tools, Integrate data, Collaborate teamsRequirements Summary:4+ years in software development or data engineering; strong SQL, Python/JavaScript; Airtable experience; REST APIs; comfortable in fast-paced, humanitarian contexts.Technical Tools Mentioned:Airtable, REST APIs, SQL, Python, JavaScript
The Response Data Engineer provides hands-on engineering support for WCK's frontline data tools and systems. This role is responsible for maintaining and improving the data infrastructure that powers response operations — ensuring field teams have reliable, connected tools that minimize manual data entry and adapt to the fast-changing needs of disaster response.Working closely with the broader Response Technology team, this engineer will refine WCK's response data model, develop sustainable improvements to Airtable and offline data tools, and build integrations that connect workstreams across response business units. The goal: a flexible, low-maintenance data ecosystem that lets field teams focus on feeding impacted communities, and having the right, real-time data to make optimized operational decisions.Initial Contract Term: 6 months (with option to extend in 6-month increments)Location: Remote; travel to responses may be requiredHours: 40 hours/week; may include evenings and weekends during response activationsReports To: VP, Response TechnologyKey ResponsibilitiesData Tools & Integration MaintenanceMaintain and troubleshoot frontline data tools, primarily Airtable-based systems supporting Response OperationsBuild and maintain integrations between response systems using REST APIs, ensuring data flows reliably across platformsProvide responsive technical support during activations, including outside standard business hours when neededMonitor system health and proactively address issues before they impact field operationsData Model & Template DevelopmentRefine and evolve the response data model to better reflect operational realities and reduce complexity in cooperation with key stakeholdersDevelop and improve Airtable templates and offline data tools that standardize processes while remaining flexible for diverse response contextsReduce redundant data entry by connecting response unit processes and automating data flows where possibleBuild automated data QA processes to support data integrity and enable reliable real-time reportingDocument data structures, integrations, and templates to enable knowledge transfer and long-term maintainabilityCollaboration & GovernancePartner with Enterprise Technology to ensure engineering work follows organizational standards and best practicesCollaborate closely with Response Technology team members to understand operational needs and translate those into technical solutionsWork with field teams to gather feedback and iterate on tools based on real-world usageParticipate in code reviews and maintain clean, well-documented codejectives.Requirements 4+ years of experience in software development, data engineering, or technical operationsStrong understanding of relational data modeling principles — normalization, entity-relationship design, and schema evolutionExperience designing data structures that balance flexibility with maintainabilityProficiency in JavaScript and PythonStrong experience with SQL and relational data conceptsHands-on experience with Airtable (scripting, automations and Interfaces)Experience building and consuming REST APIsAbility to safely and effectively leverage AI development tools (e.g., Claude Code, GitHub Copilot)Excellent written and verbal communication skillsProven ability to translate technical requirements from non-technical usersComfort working in fast-paced, ambiguous environments with shifting prioritiesWillingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends during response activationsPreferredDBT data modeling experienceExperience supporting field operations or frontline teams in humanitarian, logistics, or crisis response contextsExposure to managing schema changes in production systems (versioning, migration, backwards compatibility)Ability to facilitate workshops with operational teams to validate data models against real workflowsFamiliarity with offline-capable data collection tools (e.g., KoboToolbox, ODK, Fulcrum)Experience with data visualization or reporting toolsBackground working in distributed, remote-first teamsWorking ConditionsThis is a remote position with flexibility on locationMust have reliable and high-speed  internet access and ability to work across US time zonesTravel to response locations may be required, potentially including challenging or disaster-affected environmentsDuring active responses, work hours may extend to evenings and weekends based on operational needsStandard working hours will be established in coordination with supervisor during non-activation periodsApplication & Cover LetterThis application requires a cover letter that explains your interest in this position and in working for WCK. Applications without a letter will not be considered. Please include your letter in one pdf document with your resume.BenefitsWhy Join WCK?World Central Kitchen uses the power of food to nourish communities and strengthen economies in times of crisis and beyond. We are first responders, mobilizing with a network of food trucks, restaurants, and community kitchens to provide chef-prepared meals to those in need.WCK operates with an "embrace chaos mindset", we show up when others can't or won't, and we adapt in real-time to meet the needs of the communities we serve. We're looking for team members who thrive in this environment: resourceful, resilient, and driven by the urgency of the mission.