Data Steward

About EXFO

EXFO develops advanced testing, monitoring, and analytics solutions that play a key role in shaping the future of telecommunications networks globally. Operating in a technology-driven environment, the company emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and high-quality data management as central pillars for its products and decision-making.

Role Overview

The role of Data Steward focuses on converting data governance principles into tangible practices involving standards for data quality, ontology and semantics, data usage policies, classification, and traceability. The incumbent will serve as the functional expert on the meaning, quality, and appropriate use of data, collaborating closely with Data Ops, Architecture, Platform, Security, Product, and UX teams to ensure data is dependable, intelligible, searchable, and reusable.

Key Responsibilities

• Create and refine governance standards relating to semantics, classification, data quality, traceability, accountability, and usage guidelines.
• Set context parameters, interpretative rules, and reliability benchmarks for different datasets, metrics, and core concepts.
• Act as the authoritative figure on data ontology, clarifying meanings and resolving ambiguities.
• Provide strategic guidance on decisions about data catalogs, contracts, metadata, quality, lineage, observability, and documentation, without managing their technical implementation.
• Collaborate with Data Ops, Architecture, Platform, and Security teams to reinforce governance, auditability, and data reuse.
• Establish quality and compliance standards for data used across analytics, artificial intelligence, product development, and operations.
• Detect risks related to data governance, quality, or usage and propose corrective measures.
• Lead governance discussions and foster alignment among various stakeholders.

Qualifications and Requirements

• University degree in Information Management, Computer Science, Data Science, or a related field, with equivalent practical experience also considered.
• Proven experience in data governance, metadata management, data quality, or data stewardship roles.
• Solid knowledge of ontology, data catalogs, data contracts, data lineage, and data classification principles.
• Competence in translating data governance principles into clear, actionable standards.
• Strong communication, teamwork, and facilitation skills for working with both technical and business teams.
• Fluent bilingual proficiency in French and English, both spoken and written.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Familiarity with platforms such as DataHub, OpenMetadata, or Apache Atlas.
• Basic understanding of Git version control and programming or scripting languages (e.g., Python, Bash, Java).
• Awareness of data compliance, privacy, classification, and auditing requirements.
• Experience in technological or industrial sectors; background in telecommunications or networks is advantageous.
• Insight into artificial intelligence challenges and their impact on data governance and quality.

Why Work at EXFO?

• Contribute to cutting-edge technologies shaping future telecommunications infrastructures.
• Make a meaningful impact on data governance and AI-focused initiatives.
• Engage in a collaborative international environment with multidisciplinary teams.
• Join a culture that promotes innovation, collaboration, and autonomy.
• Benefit from a flexible, hybrid working model.
• Receive competitive compensation and opportunities for professional development.

Additional Information

Proficiency in French and English is mandatory due to regular interactions with colleagues and partners outside Quebec and Canada. EXFO is committed to equal employment opportunities, valuing diversity, and fostering an inclusive workplace environment.