Senior Associate/Programmatic AdTech Engineer (Forensic Services practice)

Position Overview CRA’s Forensic Services practice supports companies’ commitment to integrity by assisting them and their counsel in independently responding to allegations of fraud, waste, abuse, misconduct, and non‑compliance. As a Senior Associate, you will be involved in projects that intersect data engineering, programmatic AdTech, AI, forensics, and privacy risk management. You’ll serve as a key subject matter expert, builder, and technical advisor across a portfolio of unique client problems and lead, learn from, and work with a team of supportive, highly intelligent colleagues. As a Senior Associate, You Will Lead and support technical vision and execution for forensic investigations of advertising technology systems, privacy compliance, and data flows across web, mobile, and programmatic platforms. Reverse‑engineer complex AdTech products, programmatic supply chains, tracking tools, identity graphing frameworks, real‑time bidding systems, and monetization controls. Design and build forensic data pipelines, processing infrastructure, and investigatory tools used to process and analyze large‑scale datasets (bid streams, impression logs, consent records). Deploy AI and advanced tooling to support investigations, detect privacy compliance gaps, and develop compliant data monetization strategy. Serve as technical subject‑matter expert advising legal counsel and corporate executives on complex data, engineering, privacy, and AdTech challenges — translating complex technical findings into actionable business insights. Lead cross‑functional engagements requiring coordination across technical analysis, legal strategy, data engineering, and stakeholder communication under aggressive deadlines. Mentor junior team members. Contribute to internal initiatives. Education Bachelor’s degree required; Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science, Information Systems or related technical field. Experience 5‑7+ years in software engineering, progressive experience with at least two of the following domains: Programmatic advertising technology, marketing technology platforms, or digital media ecosystems. Data engineering, analytics engineering, or large‑scale data pipeline development. Privacy engineering, compliance technology, or regulatory risk assessment. Consulting delivery, expert services, or client‑facing technical advisory roles. Representative portfolio projects, open‑source contributions, and/or other observable works. Deep understanding of programmatic advertising architectures including SSPs, DSPs, DMPs, CDPs, and ad exchanges. Knowledge of real‑time bidding protocols, OpenRTB specifications, header bidding mechanics, prebid.js, and programmatic supply chain data flows. Understanding of identity graph methodologies including deterministic matching, probabilistic linkage, device graphs, and privacy‑preserving cohort approaches. Technical Skills Deep understanding of programmatic advertising architectures including SSPs, DSPs, DMPs, CDPs, and ad exchanges. Knowledge of real‑time bidding protocols, OpenRTB specifications, header bidding mechanics, prebid.js, and programmatic supply chain data flows. Understanding of identity graph methodologies including deterministic matching, probabilistic linkage, device graphs, and privacy‑preserving cohort approaches. Advanced proficiency in at least two programming languages: Python, SQL, R, JavaScript, or similar languages applicable to data analysis and tool development. Experience with data engineering frameworks and tools: Apache Spark, Airflow, and modern data warehousing platforms (Snowflake, BigQuery, Redshift). Competency in data manipulation, transformation, and analysis using pandas, NumPy, or equivalent libraries. Familiarity with cloud platforms (AWS, GCP, Azure) and infrastructure‑as‑code approaches. Experience building custom analytical applications. Salary and Other Compensation A good‑faith estimate of the annual base salary range for this position is $130,000 – $152,500. This range may vary based on factors such as education level, experience, skills, geographic location, market conditions, and other qualifications of the successful candidate. The position may be eligible for additional bonus incentive compensation. Medical, dental, and vision insurance. 401(k) retirement plan with employer match. Life and disability insurance. Paid time off (vacation, sick leave, holidays). Paid parental leave. Wellness programs and employee assistance resources. Commuter benefits. Career Growth And Benefits Robust skills development programs, including 100 hours of training annually through formal and informal programs. Training in research and analysis skill building, technical training, presentation skills, internal seminars, and career mentoring and performance coaching from an assigned senior colleague. Additional leadership and collaboration opportunities through internal firm development activities. Comprehensive total rewards program with a superior benefits package and wellness programming to support physical, mental, emotional and financial well‑being. In‑house immigration support for foreign nationals and international business travelers. Work Location Flexibility CRA encourages a mix of office collaboration and remote work. Employees are expected to spend at least 3 to 4 days a week in the office, which may include traveling to another CRA office or client meetings, with specific days determined in coordination with the practice or team. Our Commitment to Equal Employment Opportunity Charles River Associates is an equal‑opportunity employer (EOE). All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. To Apply Resume – please include current address, personal email and telephone number. #J-18808-Ljbffr Charles River Associates