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- Tasks: Lead data mapping and transformation between legacy and Azure systems.
- Company: Howard Lock Consulting Ltd is a forward-thinking consultancy focused on innovative solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy remote work flexibility with occasional travel to Ipswich.
- Why this job: Join a strategic redevelopment programme and make a real impact on data quality.
- Qualifications: Strong SQL skills and experience with Azure data services are essential.
- Other info: Contract role starting 1st July, with full-time and part-time commitments.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 60000 £ per year.
Join to apply for the Data Engineer (Microsoft Azure) role at Howard Lock Consulting Ltd.
Location: Remote + some travel to Ipswich (as and when required)
Overview: As part of the CLIENT strategic redevelopment programme, there is a requirement for a Senior Data Engineer to lead on data mapping, transformation, and synchronisation activities between the legacy Swift Internet-hosted database and a newly provisioned Azure-based solution. The legacy system presents several data quality and structural challenges — for example, data relating to 'County' may be found in columns labelled 'Country'. Column naming conventions and data storage practices are inconsistent, and the schema is poorly documented.
To gain a complete understanding of the data model and its usage, the Data Engineer will need to:
- Review and interpret the existing PHP codebase to identify how data is handled, populated, and transformed within the application
- Work independently to assess the current data structure within the legacy SQL Server/MySQL database
- Design a clean, normalised target data model within Azure (e.g., Azure SQL or similar)
- Define a robust mapping and transformation approach
- Collaborate with CLIENT stakeholders to validate and sign off the proposed data model and transformation logic
Once approved, the engineer will transition to the implementation phase, including:
- Developing ETL pipelines using Azure-native tooling (e.g., Azure Data Factory or Synapse Pipelines)
- Establishing synchronisation between legacy and new systems
- Supporting delta updates and ensuring both systems remain aligned throughout the transition
- Assisting developers with ad hoc queries, transformation logic, and data reconciliation efforts
Delivery Timeline & Resource Commitment:
- Sprints 0–2 (Full Time): Discovery, schema review, mapping design, and ETL development (30 days)
- Sprints 3–11 (Part Time): Ongoing support for developer-led integration and data sync (reduced involvement) – max 2 days a week, please note there are 2 week gap weeks every 6 weeks.
Required Skills & Experience:
- Strong SQL knowledge (MySQL and/or SQL Server)
- Hands-on experience with data modelling and ETL development in Azure
- Proven ability to reverse-engineer data flows from code (specifically PHP-based applications)
- Experience collaborating with business stakeholders to define and validate data structures
- Understanding of legacy-modern system integrations and ongoing synchronisation challenges
- Familiarity with Microsoft Azure’s data services (e.g., Azure SQL, Data Factory) is highly desirable.
Data Engineer (Microsoft Azure) – contract – outside IR35 – 1st July start – Ref: 25035 employer: Howard Lock Consulting Ltd
Contact Detail:
Howard Lock Consulting Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Data Engineer (Microsoft Azure) – contract – outside IR35 – 1st July start – Ref: 25035
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Microsoft Azure's data services, especially Azure SQL and Data Factory. Having hands-on experience or even completing a few relevant projects can really set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your SQL skills, particularly with MySQL and SQL Server. Being able to demonstrate your proficiency in these areas during discussions will show that you're ready to tackle the challenges of the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with data mapping and transformation. Think of specific examples where you've successfully handled similar tasks, as this will help you illustrate your capabilities to the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the field, especially those who have worked on legacy-modern system integrations. They might provide insights or tips that could be beneficial during your interview process.
We think you need these skills to ace Data Engineer (Microsoft Azure) – contract – outside IR35 – 1st July start – Ref: 25035
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Data Engineer position. Familiarise yourself with the specific skills mentioned, such as SQL knowledge and experience with Azure services.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the job description. Emphasise your hands-on experience with data modelling, ETL development, and any previous work with legacy systems.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and how your background makes you a perfect fit. Mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your ability to handle data mapping and transformation challenges.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Check for any spelling or grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is clear and concise. A polished application reflects your attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at Howard Lock Consulting Ltd
✨Understand the Data Landscape
Before your interview, make sure you have a solid grasp of the data landscape mentioned in the job description. Familiarise yourself with the challenges of legacy systems and how they can be integrated with modern solutions like Azure.
✨Showcase Your SQL Skills
Prepare to discuss your SQL knowledge in detail. Be ready to provide examples of how you've used SQL Server or MySQL in past projects, especially in relation to data mapping and transformation.
✨Demonstrate ETL Experience
Highlight your hands-on experience with ETL development, particularly using Azure-native tools. Be prepared to explain your approach to designing ETL pipelines and any challenges you've faced during implementation.
✨Collaborate Effectively
Since the role involves working with stakeholders, practice articulating how you've successfully collaborated with business teams in the past. Share specific examples of how you validated data structures and ensured alignment between technical and non-technical teams.
