Principal Clinical Data Engineer - based in South Africa

Parexel is seeking an experiencedPrincipal Clinical Data Engineerto join our Global Data Operations team. This is a leadership position where you will be recognized as a subject matter expert, providing technical support and strategic guidance to internal and external sponsors while leading high-impact clinical data projects.

As Principal Clinical Data Engineer, you will take the lead on complex projects, liaise with sponsors, Data Management Leads, and cross-functional teams, while maintaining account oversight responsibilities. You will be instrumental in aggregating data from multiple sources and devices, managing external data, and driving operational efficiencies through the development of standards, libraries, and reusable tools.

What You'll Do:

Manage Projects & Technology

• Lead and implement Data Receipt Agreements with vendors in collaboration with cross-functional teams

• Program and establish import procedures for data ingestion using SAS or alternative technologies (e.g., Workbench)

• Design and implement reconciliation checks to ensure accurate data transfer

• Program offline listings and custom reports to provide valuable insights on external data

• Aggregate data across all sources and manage data structures, missing values, and programming errors

• Review data outputs and provide strategic insights to study teams and clients

• Ensure first-time quality on all deliverables

• Negotiate electronic data timelines and ensure adherence through active project management

• Monitor project resourcing, identify scope changes, and resolve technical issues

• Coordinate and lead programming teams to successful project completion within timelines and budget

• Manage deployment of data management technology for offline listing creation

• Act as SME and technology owner for data management offline listing platforms

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain comprehensive supporting documentation in accordance with SOPs, Guidelines, and Work Instructions

• Ensure traceability and regulatory compliance across all study activities

• Document deviations and communicate them to project teams

Support Initiatives & Continuous Improvement

• Participate in creating standards through tools (SAS macros), libraries, and processes

• Develop and implement project-specific tools and improvements

• Lead or drive global initiatives related to processes and new technologies

• Mentor staff and provide relevant training

• Assist project teams in problem resolution and technical support

• Maintain and expand regulatory knowledge within the clinical research industry

Account Leadership & Business Development

• Serve as point of contact for clients and internal stakeholders on electronic data matters

• Participate in bid defense meetings

• Independently contribute ideas on technology and data engineering to support business development

What We're Looking For:

• Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant science discipline

• Strong background in clinical research industry

• Programming Proficiency:Advanced proficiency in at least one of the following: SQL, SAS, or R

• Clinical Data Systems:Strong experience working with at least two systems used to aggregate data in the clinical trial process (e.g., SAS, Workbench, Elluminate)

• Regulatory Knowledge:Comprehensive knowledge of SOPs, Guidelines, Work Instructions, System Life Cycle methodologies, ICH-GCP, and applicable regulations (e.g., 21 CFR Part 11) with proven practical application

• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills with concise, audience-tailored messaging and diplomatic approach

• Highly developed problem-solving capabilities, root cause analysis skills, and ability to make decisions in ambiguous situations

• Excellent analytical and technical capabilities

• Written and oral fluency in English