Run an Apache Spark Job with Dataproc

Libraries: If you want this lab, consider one of these libraries.
Cloud

Run an Apache Spark Job with Dataproc

Apache Spark is a powerful open-source unified analytics engine for large-scale data processing. With its ability to handle big data and its integrated APIs for languages such as Python (PySpark), it is often used by data scientists for predictive analytics. One such application is the Monte Carlo simulation, a computational algorithm that relies on repeated random sampling to obtain numerical results. In this hands-on lab, you will create a managed Apache Spark cluster and leverage Monte Carlo simulations to predict the growth of an investment portfolio.

Get started Contact sales

Lab Info

Level

Beginner

Last updated

Sep 25, 2025

Duration

45m

Challenge

Create a Managed Dataproc Cluster with Apache Spark Pre-Installed
1. Enable the Dataproc API and navigate to the Dataproc console.
2. Create a standard Dataproc cluster on Compute Engine.
3. Configure the master and worker nodes with n2-standard-2 machine types.
Challenge

Using Python, Run a Monte Carlo Simulation That Estimates the Growth of a Stock Portfolio
1. Connect to the Dataproc cluster's primary node via SSH.
2. Start a PySpark Python interpreter.
3. Run the Monte Carlo simulations.

About the author

Pluralsight Skills

Pluralsight Skills gives leaders confidence they have the skills needed to execute technology strategy. Technology teams can benchmark expertise across roles, speed up release cycles and build reliable, secure products. By leveraging our expert content, skill assessments and one-of-a-kind analytics, keep up with the pace of change, put the right people on the right projects and boost productivity. It's the most effective path to developing tech skills at scale.

Real skill practice before real-world application

Hands-on Labs are real environments created by industry experts to help you learn. These environments help you gain knowledge and experience, practice without compromising your system, test without risk, destroy without fear, and let you learn from your mistakes. Hands-on Labs: practice your skills before delivering in the real world.

Learn by doing

Engage hands-on with the tools and technologies you’re learning. You pick the skill, we provide the credentials and environment.

Follow your guide

All labs have detailed instructions and objectives, guiding you through the learning process and ensuring you understand every step.

Turn time into mastery

On average, you retain 75% more of your learning if you take time to practice. Hands-on labs set you up for success to make those skills stick.