Data Steward

About EXFO

At EXFO, we innovate in the development of testing, monitoring, and analytical solutions that influence the future of telecommunications networks globally. We operate in a tech-focused environment where collaboration, innovation, and data quality are critical to our products and decisions.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Data Governance & Quality Specialist (Data Steward) to apply and implement data governance principles through practical standards concerning data quality, ontology, semantics, usage policies, classification, and traceability.

In this role, you will serve as a subject matter expert on the meaning, quality, and utilization of data. You will work closely with Data Ops, Architecture, Platform, Security, Product, and UX teams to ensure data is reliable, clear, discoverable, and reusable.

Key Responsibilities

• Set and continuously improve governance standards such as semantic definitions, classification frameworks, data quality, traceability, accountability, and usage policies.
• Define data usage contexts, interpretation protocols, and reliability criteria for datasets, key metrics, and concepts.
• Act as the authoritative source on data ontology, clarify data meanings, and resolve any ambiguities.
• Advise on decisions involving data catalogs, data contracts, metadata management, quality assurance, lineage tracing, observability, and documentation without managing technical implementation.
• Collaborate with Data Ops, Architecture, Platform, and Security teams to bolster data governance, audit readiness, and reuse capabilities.
• Establish quality and compliance expectations for data employed in analytics, artificial intelligence, product development, and operations.
• Identify risks related to data quality, governance, or usage and suggest corrective measures.
• Lead governance discussions to promote stakeholder alignment and consensus.

Qualifications

• University degree in Information Management, Computer Science, Data Science, or a related discipline; equivalent professional experience is also considered.
• Extensive experience in data governance, metadata management, data quality, or stewardship roles.
• Strong knowledge of data ontology, catalogs, contracts, lineage, and classification systems.
• Ability to convert governance principles into actionable, applicable standards.
• Exceptional communication, collaboration, and facilitation skills working with technical and business teams.
• Fluent in both French and English, verbally and in writing.

Additional Assets

• Familiarity with platforms like DataHub, OpenMetadata, or Apache Atlas.
• Basic experience with Git and programming/scripting languages such as Python, Bash, or Java.
• Understanding of compliance, data privacy, classification, and auditing requirements.
• Background in technology or industrial sectors, with telecommunications or networking as a plus.
• Awareness of AI-related challenges affecting data governance and quality.

Why Join EXFO?

• Contribute to cutting-edge technologies influencing the telecommunications landscape.
• Impact data governance and AI projects significantly.
• Work alongside diverse, multidisciplinary international teams.
• Thrive in a culture that emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and autonomy.
• Benefit from a flexible hybrid working environment.
• Receive competitive compensation and growth opportunities.

Language Requirement

Proficiency in French and English is mandatory due to regular communication with colleagues and partners outside Quebec and Canada.

Equal Opportunity

EXFO is dedicated to equal opportunity employment, embracing diversity, and fostering an inclusive workplace environment.