Experienced Analytics Engineer (M/V/X) – Defense

We are looking for a motivated and experienced Analytics Engineer to join our Analytics Engineering team and contribute to large-scale data initiatives supporting the digital transformation of the Belgian Defense.

You will play a key role in turning complex operational data into reliable, well‑structured datasets that can be used confidently across the organization. This role is best suited for professionals who already have several years of hands‑on experience working with data platforms and relational databases and who enjoy building durable, well‑designed data solutions.

Working environment

You will be part of the Analytics Engineering team within the Information Technology & Services Department (IT&S) of the Ministry of Defense. The team is composed of both civilian and military IT experts working closely together.

Your usual workplace will be the Competence Centre for Flying Material & Communication and Information Systems (CC V&C) in Peutie (Vilvoorde), with teleworking options depending on project needs.

The CC V&C is responsible for the operation and support of the Defense information and communication systems, as well as various corporate applications – both internally developed systems and solutions delivered by external partners.

With more than 27,000 employees, Defense is one of the largest employers in Belgium and plays a critical role in territorial defense, international missions, and support to the population in crisis situations. Working here means contributing to a mission with real societal impact, in a structured and unique environment.

Your responsibilities

As an Analytics Engineer, you will take ownership of data transformation pipelines and analytical data models:

Data transformation & analytics engineering

• Design, build and maintain robust data transformation pipelines, primarily using PostgreSQL and dbt
• Transform raw and operational data into analytics‑ready datasets for reporting, dashboards and downstream use
• Apply best practices for data modeling, with a strong focus on Data Warehousing concepts (including Data Vault) and Operational Data Stores (ODS)
• Ensure data quality, consistency and reliability across the data platform
• Act as a subject‑matter expert, supporting colleagues and sharing your experience and best practices
• Monitor and optimize performance of data pipelines and database workloads

Data integration & collaboration

• Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders to understand data needs and translate them into clear, maintainable data models
• Integrate data from multiple heterogeneous sources using established ETL processes such as Talend
• Contribute to scalable solutions that can support growing data volumes and usage over time

Most of the data platforms are on‑premises; exposure to cloud environments is considered a strong plus, but not a requirement.

Your profile

Education

• Master’s degree (or higher) in Computer Science, Engineering, Data, or a related field

Experience & technical background

We are looking for candidates with proven, hands‑on experience:

• Several years of professional experience working with PostgreSQL in production environments
• Strong experience in data transformation and analytics engineering
• Working knowledge of dbt or similar
• Experience with Talend or similar ETL tools
• Solid understanding of data warehousing concepts
• Comfortable working in mostly on‑prem environments
• MariaDB experience is a nice to have
• Familiarity with cloud platforms is a plus, but not required

We value practical experience and sound judgment over exposure to a long list of tools.

Soft skills

• Team player who actively contributes and shares knowledge
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving mindset
• Able to work autonomously while collaborating effectively with others
• Clear communicator, capable of explaining data concepts to non‑technical stakeholders
• Critical thinker who continuously looks for ways to improve solutions and processes

French and/or Dutch are mandatory working languages. Subject to security clearance.

What we offer

The Belgian Federal Government is undergoing a major digital transformation, with challenges ranging from cybersecurity and modern data architecture to the optimization of mission‑critical systems.

By joining us, you will:

• Contribute to projects with real societal and national impact
• Work in a stable yet technically challenging environment
• Benefit from continuous learning and professional development
• Receive a competitive salary package complemented by attractive extra‑legal benefits
• (hospitalization insurance, meal vouchers, mobility options, pension fund, etc.)

We strongly value a healthy work‑life balance, offering telework for most roles. Our offices are accessible by public transport.