At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative data engineering projects in the defence sector and shape enterprise-scale solutions.
- Company: Dynamic defence technology consultancy focused on AI and advanced analytics.
- Benefits: Up to £140,000 salary, strong benefits, and flexible UK-wide opportunities.
- Other info: Join a forward-thinking team with clear pathways for growth and leadership.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national security while driving technological innovation.
- Qualifications: Extensive data engineering experience and expertise in Python, SQL, and cloud technologies.
The predicted salary is between 140000 - 140000 £ per year.
The UK's defence landscape is changing. AI, advanced analytics and modern data platforms are becoming mission-critical capabilities across government, defence and national security organisations. As demand continues to accelerate, an innovative defence technology consultancy is investing heavily in its data capability and is seeking a Principal Data Engineering Lead to help drive the next phase of growth. This is a career-defining opportunity for an experienced data leader who wants to influence both technology strategy and business growth while working at the forefront of AI-enabled defence programmes.
This position sits at the intersection of technical leadership, customer engagement and capability development. You will be responsible for shaping enterprise-scale data solutions, leading technical teams and helping establish a best-in-class data engineering function capable of supporting some of the most complex challenges within the defence sector. You'll work closely with customers, architects, engineers and leadership teams to deliver innovative solutions while helping grow a high-performing engineering practice.
Key responsibilities include:
- Providing technical leadership across major defence and secure government programmes
- Leading the design and implementation of modern data architectures
- Acting as a trusted advisor to senior customer stakeholders
- Building and developing engineering teams and technical capability
- Defining engineering standards, delivery approaches and technical roadmaps
- Supporting business growth through thought leadership and industry expertise
- Driving the adoption of emerging technologies, AI and modern data engineering practices
What We're Looking For
We're looking for an established leader with a strong reputation within the defence, national security or government technology space. You should bring:
- Extensive experience delivering and leading Data Engineering programmes
- Expert-level knowledge of Python and SQL
- Strong experience with Databricks, Spark and distributed data processing technologies
- Cloud expertise across AWS, Azure and/or GCP
- Experience using orchestration tools such as Airflow
- A strong understanding of data platform reliability, scalability and governance
- Proven experience influencing technical strategy and customer decision-making
- The ability to lead, mentor and inspire engineering teams
Why This Opportunity Stands Out
This organisation is building something genuinely different. You'll join a highly ambitious business where technical excellence is valued, innovation is encouraged and leadership teams actively invest in new ideas and emerging technologies. Rather than inheriting an established practice, you'll play a significant role in shaping its future direction, helping define how data engineering is delivered across a growing portfolio of defence and AI programmes. This role offers genuine influence, visibility and the opportunity to leave a lasting impact on both customers and the wider business.
Location & Travel
This is a UK-wide opportunity, and applications are welcomed from experienced professionals across the country. The organisation operates nationally, with teams supporting customers across multiple locations. Travel to client sites will form a regular part of the role depending on programme requirements.
Package
Up to £140,000 base salary
Strong benefits package
UK-wide opportunities and flexibility
Exposure to cutting-edge Defence, AI and Data programmes
Clear pathway for continued growth and leadership responsibility
If you're a senior data engineering leader looking for a role where you can influence strategy, shape capability and deliver meaningful impact across the UK's defence sector, we'd welcome a confidential discussion.
Principle Data Engineer in Aberdeen employer: ANSON MCCADE
Join an innovative defence technology consultancy that values technical excellence and fosters a culture of innovation. As a Principal Data Engineering Lead, you'll have the unique opportunity to shape the future of data engineering within the defence sector, working on cutting-edge AI and data programmes while enjoying a strong benefits package and a clear pathway for career growth. This UK-wide role offers flexibility and the chance to make a meaningful impact on national security initiatives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principle Data Engineer in Aberdeen
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with folks in the defence and data engineering space. Attend industry events, webinars, or even local meetups. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Principal Data Engineer role!
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, don’t hold back! Share your experiences with Python, SQL, and those fancy data platforms like Databricks and Spark. Let them see how you can drive innovation in their projects.
✨Tailor Your Approach
Every conversation is an opportunity. Make sure to tailor your discussions to highlight how your expertise aligns with their needs in defence and national security. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re the one they need!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Principle Data Engineer in Aberdeen
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Principal Data Engineer. Highlight your experience with Python, SQL, and any relevant cloud technologies like AWS or Azure. We want to see how your skills align with the job description!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about data engineering in the defence sector. Share specific examples of how you've influenced technical strategy or led teams in the past. Let us know why you’re the perfect fit!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this role involves leading teams and shaping data solutions, make sure to highlight your leadership experience. Talk about how you've mentored others or driven projects to success. We love seeing candidates who can inspire and guide their teams!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our innovative team!
How to prepare for a job interview at ANSON MCCADE
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the technologies mentioned in the job description, like Python, SQL, Databricks, and cloud platforms. Brush up on your knowledge of data architectures and distributed processing technologies, as you’ll likely be asked to discuss how you’ve applied these in past projects.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in leading technical teams and influencing strategy. Think about specific instances where you mentored team members or drove a project to success. This role is all about leadership, so make sure you convey your ability to inspire and guide others.
✨Understand the Defence Sector
Familiarise yourself with current trends and challenges in the defence and national security landscape. Being able to discuss how AI and advanced analytics are shaping the future of this sector will show that you’re not just technically proficient but also aware of the broader context in which you’ll be working.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with insightful questions about their data engineering practices, team culture, and future projects. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company aligns with your career goals.
