At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead testing strategy and automation in a dynamic data environment.
- Company: Join a high-performing organisation focused on innovative data solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy a £75,000 salary, profit share, and flexible hybrid working.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on data quality while collaborating with top specialists.
- Qualifications: Deep experience in data testing, SQL, Python, and cloud platforms required.
- Other info: Mentorship opportunities available; ideal for those passionate about tech innovation.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 84000 £ per year.
Are you a hands-on, technically advanced Test Specialist looking to take the lead on testing strategy across a cutting-edge data environment? We are working exclusively with a high-performing organisation who are making a rare and strategic external hire into their specialist team - and they are looking for a Principal Test Specialist (DATA) to elevate testing across their data engineering and analytics function.
This is a business-critical role, working at the intersection of technical strategy and hands-on delivery. You will help define and implement scalable test automation across complex data pipelines and analytical models, directly impacting the quality and reliability of data products used business-wide.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Partner with the Test Manager to modernise and optimise test processes across the data and analytics function.
- Lead the development of test automation frameworks that support data ingestion, transformation (ETL/ELT), and analytical models.
- Work hands-on with tools like Snowflake, dbt, Fivetran, and Tableau, alongside SQL and Python.
- Design and implement scalable, agnostic testing frameworks for use across agile delivery teams.
- Promote best practices including Test-Driven Development (TDD), Behaviour-Driven Development (BDD), and AI/ML-based testing for anomaly detection and performance validation.
- Mentor and upskill test and engineering teams in modern, automation-first testing approaches.
- Collaborate across teams to ensure quality and consistency throughout the development lifecycle.
What We’re Looking For
Technical Skills
- Deep experience in data testing, particularly across ingestion, transformation, and modelling pipelines.
- Strong SQL and Python skills - essential for building and validating test cases.
- Proven experience with Snowflake (or similar cloud data platforms), dbt, Fivetran, and Airflow.
- Knowledge of automation frameworks such as Cucumber, Gherkin, TestNG.
- Experience integrating test automation into large-scale delivery functions.
Experience
- Proven track record in testing complex data solutions in fast-paced, agile environments.
- Blend of hands-on capability and strategic input - you will be expected to build as well as guide.
- Background in mentoring or training other engineers/testers is highly advantageous.
- Exposure to analytics testing, data modelling, or working with analytical products.
Soft Skills
- Strong communication skills - confident in providing constructive feedback and driving improvement.
- Comfortable presenting solutions and testing strategy to stakeholders.
- Curious, solutions-focused, and excited by emerging tools (particularly AI-based testing techniques).
What’s in It for You?
- £75,000 salary + generous discretionary profit share scheme.
- Colleague discounts.
- Flexible hybrid working - typically 1 office visit per month after probation.
- Join a highly respected team of technical specialists.
- Make a tangible impact across business-critical data systems.
Principal Test Specialist (DATA) employer: Corecom Consulting
Contact Detail:
Corecom Consulting Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Test Specialist (DATA)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific tools mentioned in the job description, such as Snowflake, dbt, and Fivetran. Having hands-on experience or even a solid understanding of these platforms will help you stand out during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your experience in implementing test automation frameworks. Be prepared to discuss specific examples where you've successfully modernised testing processes, as this aligns closely with what the role requires.
✨Tip Number 3
Highlight your mentoring experience. Since the role involves upskilling teams, sharing instances where you've trained others or led initiatives can demonstrate your leadership capabilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your approach to Test-Driven Development (TDD) and Behaviour-Driven Development (BDD). Being able to articulate your strategies and experiences with these methodologies will show that you're aligned with their best practices.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Test Specialist (DATA)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in data testing, particularly with tools like SQL, Python, and cloud platforms such as Snowflake. Emphasise any hands-on roles you've had in developing test automation frameworks.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for data testing and your understanding of the role's requirements. Mention specific experiences where you've led testing strategies or mentored teams, showcasing your blend of technical and leadership skills.
Showcase Relevant Projects: If applicable, include examples of projects where you've implemented scalable testing frameworks or worked with ETL/ELT processes. This will demonstrate your practical experience and ability to impact data quality.
Highlight Soft Skills: Don't forget to mention your strong communication skills and your ability to present solutions to stakeholders. These soft skills are crucial for the Principal Test Specialist role and can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Corecom Consulting
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your hands-on experience with tools like Snowflake, dbt, and Fivetran. Highlight specific projects where you implemented test automation frameworks and how they improved data quality.
✨Demonstrate Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves mentoring and guiding teams, share examples of how you've successfully led testing initiatives or trained others in modern testing approaches. This will show your capability to elevate the team's performance.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Strong communication is key for this position. Practice articulating your thoughts on testing strategies and be ready to present solutions to potential challenges. This will help you connect with stakeholders during the interview.
✨Emphasise Your Agile Experience
Discuss your experience working in agile environments and how you've integrated test automation into large-scale delivery functions. Providing concrete examples will demonstrate your ability to thrive in fast-paced settings.