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How to become a big data engineer

Wrangle big data systems and tools to help organisations make the most of this valuable asset.

What does a big data engineer do?

Tasks and duties

  • Plan, design and implement the architecture of a data platform.

  • Manage and optimise the organisation’s data pipeline to ensure the infrastructure remains efficient.

  • Design and implement software systems related to data processing.

  • Research and identify data acquisition opportunities.

  • Work closely with data analysts and data scientists.

Industry bodies

Related jobs

Discover related degrees

University of Southern Queensland

Harness big data to make big decisions

Steer your career towards the dynamic AI industry. You’ll explore data mining and learn how to manage what you find. Dive deep into deep learning. Unpack the techniques of natural language processing. You’ll also look at programming and project management.

Study method
100% online
Duration
2 years full time or part time equivalent
University of Southern Queensland

Become an AI professional

Learn to mine data, create database systems, and feed AI algorithms. You’ll study programming, maths and networks. Cover statistical concepts. Think about AI solutions for real world problems. Grow your professional skills. Get real industry experience.

Study method
100% online
Duration
3 years full time or part time equivalent
University of Newcastle

Harness data and AI to solve problems and transform industries

Become a leader in the AI revolution. You’ll delve into predictive modelling, big data, and intelligent systems. Specialisations include health data analysis and computational intelligence. Graduate with future-proof skills and enhanced career prospects.

Study method
100% online
Duration
2 years full time or part time equivalent
Griffith University

Master of Data Science

PostgraduateGRF-DSC-MAS

Tools and insights for work with complex datasets

Lead change and drive efficiency by unlocking the power of data. You’ll deep dive into data analysis, machine learning, and data management. Explore AI. Work with big data. Get to know best practice for data handling and visualisation.

Study method
100% online
Duration
2 years full time or part time equivalent
Explore data science courses

Discover related subjects

University of Tasmania

Data Handling and Statistics 2

UndergraduateTAS-KMA253

Study method
100% online
Start dates
Starts 6 Jul 2026
University of Tasmania

Data Handling and Statistics 1

UndergraduateTAS-KMA153

Study method
100% online
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Start dates
Starts 23 Feb 2026, 6 Jul 2026
University of New England

From Logic to Data Processing

UndergraduateUNE-ICT101

Study method
100% online
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Start dates
Starts 23 Feb 2026, 19 Oct 2026
Macquarie University

Scientific Computing

UndergraduateMAQ-FOSX1025

Study method
100% online
Start dates
Starts 23 Feb 2026, 27 Jul 2026

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