Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certifications And Courses
Timeline
Intern
Laura Schultz

Laura Schultz

Data Engineering Lead
Blouberg Sands

Summary

Results-driven data engineer with extensive experience designing and implementing end-to-end data solutions. Skilled in developing Python applications that process real-time data from Kafka streams and integrate seamlessly with SQL databases. Proficient in deploying and managing containerized workloads using Rancher and Kubernetes, ensuring scalable and reliable infrastructure. Experienced in using Grafana to create real-time dashboards and monitor system health and performance metrics. Brings strong capabilities in SQL BI development, ETL processes, and advanced data modeling to support data-driven business decisions. Recognized for effective communication, collaborative problem-solving, and adaptability in fast-paced environments.

Overview

24
24
years of professional experience

Work History

Data Engineering Lead

DigiOutsource
Cape Town
10.2023 - Current
  • Delivered impactful results under tight deadlines, demonstrating exceptional problem-solving skills and adaptability in high-pressure situations.
  • Enhanced data processing efficiency by designing and implementing ETL pipelines.
  • Increased operational efficiency by identifying areas for optimization in current systems and processes and implementing targeted improvements.
  • Reduced time spent on manual tasks by developing automated workflows for common data operations.
  • Supported company growth by scaling existing infrastructure to accommodate increasing amounts of data.
  • Established robust monitoring processes for critical production systems, ensuring uninterrupted service delivery.
  • Managed a team of data engineers, providing mentorship and guidance on best practices in data engineering.
  • Contributed to strategic planning initiatives by providing insights derived from thorough data analysis.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop tailored data solutions for business needs.
  • Created documentation and training materials to facilitate knowledge transfer among colleagues regarding new initiatives or technologies implemented within the organization.

Senior BI Developer

DigiOutsource
Cape Town
01.2018 - 09.2023
  • Developed robust Python applications to consume real-time data from Kafka streams and store processed data in SQL databases.
  • Designed and tuned complex SQL queries and stored procedures to optimize data retrieval and support downstream analytics and reporting.
  • Engineered containerized microservices using Docker, deployed and orchestrated via Rancher and Kubernetes, ensuring high availability and scalability.
  • Built resilient ETL pipelines with performance-optimized SQL transformations and validation checks for data integrity.
  • Implemented monitoring dashboards in Grafana to visualize pipeline health and system metrics, improving observability and reducing downtime.
  • Collaborated across teams to continuously refine data architecture, driving faster decision-making and measurable business value.

Senior SQL Developer

Ecentric Payment Systems
Cape Town
11.2016 - 12.2017
  • Developed efficient stored procedures and functions for streamlined data processing, resulting in improved system performance.
  • Troubleshot critical production issues related to SQL Server databases, providing timely resolutions to minimize downtime.
  • Ensured data integrity by implementing appropriate constraints and validation rules within the SQL Server environment.

Senior SQL Developer

EOH MC
Cape Town
11.2014 - 10.2016
  • Developed efficient stored procedures and functions for streamlined data processing, resulting in improved system performance.
  • Optimized database performance by analyzing and fine-tuning complex SQL queries.
  • Troubleshot critical production issues related to SQL Server databases, providing timely resolutions to minimize downtime.
  • Ensured data integrity by implementing appropriate constraints and validation rules within the SQL Server environment.

Senior SQL Developer

Old Mutual
Cape Town
08.2011 - 10.2014
  • Developed efficient stored procedures and functions for streamlined data processing, resulting in improved system performance.
  • Conducted comprehensive quality assurance testing on new SQL scripts, identifying potential errors before implementation into production environments.
  • Developed custom reporting solutions using T-SQL, meeting unique business needs while maintaining high levels of accuracy and efficiency.
  • Analyzed existing SQL queries to identify opportunities for improvements.
  • Designed and developed ETL processes for seamless data integration across multiple platforms.
  • Provided guidance and mentorship to junior developers on best practices related to SQL development techniques and optimization strategies.

Software Development and Customer Service Delivery Manager

Virgin Active
Cape Town
01.2009 - 07.2011
  • Managed a team of 8 software developers, 1 Service Desk Team Lead and 3 Regional Support Managers.
  • Led cross-functional teams to achieve project goals on time and within budget.
  • Improved service quality, addressing client concerns promptly and professionally.
  • Coordinated with multiple departments to ensure seamless service delivery across all touchpoints.
  • Enhanced service delivery by developing and implementing efficient processes.
  • Coordinated new hire recruitment, training and development.
  • Coordinated and led internal and external site team meetings.
  • Attended staff and client meetings and served as liaison to manage operations for account.

Delphi Developer

Virgin Active
Cape Town
01.2002 - 12.2008
  • Worked closely with clients to gather requirements and translate them into technical specifications for implementation.
  • Enhanced database performance by optimizing SQL queries and stored procedures.
  • Enhanced code maintainability through adherence to established coding standards and proper commenting practices within Delphi applications.
  • Reduced system errors by implementing robust error handling and logging mechanisms in Delphi code.
  • Resolved complex technical issues by leveraging advanced knowledge of SQL databases and Delphi development tools.
  • Achieved project deadlines through effective task prioritization and time management skills.

Education

National Diploma - Information Technology

Pretoria University of Technology
Pretoria
04.2001 -

High School Diploma -

Hillview High School
Pretoria, South Africa
04.2001 -

Skills

Advanced SQL, Relational databases, Data warehousing

Certifications And Courses

  • Project Management Short Course, Institute of Business Management, 2024
  • Microsoft Certified : Azure Data Engineer Associate, 2022 (Expired- to renew)
  • Microsoft Certified : Azure Data Fundamentals, 2021
  • Microsoft Certified : Azure Fundamentals, 2021
  • Microsoft SQL Associate, 2016
  • Manage Manager, Virgin Active, 2011
  • Business Coaching, Promentor, 2009
  • ITIL v3 Foundations, Foster & Mellier, 2009
  • Management Development Programme, Copperline, 2008
  • Diploma in I.S. Project Management, F.T.I., 2007
  • Diploma in Business Analysis, F.T.I., 2006
  • Certificate in Java Development, Van Zyl & Pritchard, 2002

Timeline

Data Engineering Lead

DigiOutsource
10.2023 - Current

Senior BI Developer

DigiOutsource
01.2018 - 09.2023

Senior SQL Developer

Ecentric Payment Systems
11.2016 - 12.2017

Senior SQL Developer

EOH MC
11.2014 - 10.2016

Senior SQL Developer

Old Mutual
08.2011 - 10.2014

Software Development and Customer Service Delivery Manager

Virgin Active
01.2009 - 07.2011

Delphi Developer

Virgin Active
01.2002 - 12.2008

National Diploma - Information Technology

Pretoria University of Technology
04.2001 -

High School Diploma -

Hillview High School
04.2001 -

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