Freelance Data Operations Engineer - Market Data (Hedge Fund) Overview We are hiring a Data Operations Engineer to join one of the worlds most successful hedge funds, supporting the Market Data and Reference Data team during a critical coverage period. This is a hands-on role focused on real-time data quality, vendor integration, and operational ownership - ideal for professionals with strong market data and commodities experience in fast-paced financial environments. Key Responsibilities Manage and validate reference data across securities, pricing, accounts, and client data. Ensure data accuracy and integrity from vendor feeds (e.g., Bloomberg, Reuters, IHS Markit, ICE). Handle Security Master data updates, monitoring, and exception resolution. Collaborate with internal stakeholders to support real-time data needs across trading desks. Develop lightweight Python scripts for automation, validation, and monitoring tasks. Support client-driven enhancements and maintain vendor relationships. Monitor and troubleshoot real-time and static data pipelines. Assist in the integration of data APIs, particularly for Options and Futures products. Required Skills and Experience Proven experience in Market Data or Reference Data Operations within financial services. Strong understanding of Security Master and enterprise data models (pricing, accounts, instruments). Hands-on experience with data from Bloomberg, Reuters, ICE, or similar providers. Working knowledge of commodities and futures - ideally crude oil, power, gas. Proficiency in Python scripting for data validation and automation. Familiarity with real-time data feeds and managing data quality exceptions. Prior experience supporting trading or portfolio management teams in an operational capacity. Excellent communication skills and ability to liaise with both internal and external stakeholders