At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and maintain Python-based ETL pipelines, transforming data for impactful insights.
- Company: Join a fast-growing investment manager committed to responsible investing and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative team environment with a focus on mentorship and career development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by shaping data solutions that matter to society and the environment.
- Qualifications: Strong skills in SQL and Python, with experience in cloud data platforms.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
About Downing
Downing is a fast-growing, entrepreneurial, responsible investment manager with headquarters in central London. We believe a great investment opportunity isn’t just financial - it’s a chance to invest in things that matter: our environment, our health, our society, our communities, and our economy. This aligns with our B CORP status. Our ability to adapt and innovate to create products for our investors is key to our growth and success, and our core values are vital to everything we do - from the businesses we invest in to the people we hire.
About the Team
Our BI and Data team based in split across London and Cardiff, sits at the heart of our investor operations, delivering the data infrastructure, pipelines, and reporting that the business depends on. We are in an active phase of platform modernisation and we are growing the team to meet that ambition. The successful candidate will join a small, collaborative team of data engineers and analysts delivering work across the full data lifecycle, from extraction and transformation through to data modelling and reporting.
About the Role
As a Senior Data Engineer, and a senior member of the team based in Cardiff, you will be a hands-on technical contributor and a reference point for engineering quality within the team. In practice, this means owning complex ETL pipelines end-to-end, working directly with stakeholders to translate data requirements into solutions that are clear, robust, and built to last. You will lead the specification of data features - taking requirements from across the business, turning them into elegant and fit-for-purpose designs, and working with team members to see them through to delivery. As much as this is an engineering role, it requires confident engagement with the business and the ability to bring people along with you.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, build, and maintain Python-based ETL pipelines across extract, transform, and load stages
- SQL development - stored procedures, views, and complex ad hoc queries
- Data lake development within Azure Synapse, working to our Bronze/Silver/Gold medallion architecture
- Leading feature specification - working with business stakeholders to define requirements and translate them into solution designs
- Keeping stakeholders informed on the status of data initiatives
- Producing technical documentation: solution designs, data dictionaries, and engineering runbooks
- Reviewing and guiding the work of less experienced members of the team
- Contributing to solution design discussions and architecture decisions
You will be working primarily within the Microsoft Azure ecosystem, including Azure SQL Server, Synapse Analytics, Azure Data Factory, and Azure DevOps, with an expectation of familiarity with Microsoft Fabric.
Qualifications Required
You must have prior experience and strong command of both SQL and Python to apply for this role. Candidates without this will not be considered.
Required Skills
- Strong Python for data engineering - production-quality ETL code, error handling, logging, and testing
- Hands-on experience with cloud data lake platforms and layered architectures (medallion / Bronze–Silver–Gold or similar) - Azure Synapse, Databricks, or equivalent
- Experience with orchestration tooling, CI/CD pipelines, and version-controlled development workflows
- An AI-first approach to development - you already use AI tools daily to write and review code, design solutions, and solve problems, and are committed to developing this practice as the tooling evolves
- Experience leading feature specification and working closely with business stakeholders
- Experience mentoring or upskilling less experienced colleagues
- Ability to produce clear, maintainable technical documentation as a standard part of delivery
Preferred Skills
- Experience migrating or re-platforming a data estate
- Experience integrating AI or LLM capabilities into data workflows or tooling
- Financial services or investment management background
- Familiarity with Power BI report development
- Kanban delivery methodology
Locations
Senior Data Engineer in Newport, Wales employer: Downing
Downing is an exceptional employer that champions a collaborative and innovative work culture, particularly within our BI and Data team based in Cardiff. As a Senior Data Engineer, you will not only contribute to meaningful projects that align with our B CORP values but also benefit from ample opportunities for professional growth and mentorship within a supportive environment. Our commitment to responsible investment and modernisation of data platforms ensures that your work will have a lasting impact on our communities and the economy.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Data Engineer in Newport, Wales
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the industry, especially those at Downing. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills in real-time! If you get the chance, be ready to demonstrate your Python and SQL prowess during interviews. Practical examples can really make you stand out.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared to discuss your past projects. Talk about how you've tackled complex ETL pipelines or worked with Azure Synapse. This shows you're not just a talker but a doer!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Data Engineer in Newport, Wales
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Senior Data Engineer role. Highlight your Python and SQL expertise, as well as any experience with Azure and ETL pipelines. We want to see how you can contribute to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to show us your personality and passion for data engineering. Share specific examples of your past work, especially where you've led projects or collaborated with stakeholders. Let us know why you're excited about joining Downing!
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In your application, don’t shy away from detailing your technical skills. Mention your experience with cloud data lakes, orchestration tools, and any AI tools you use. We love seeing candidates who are hands-on and innovative in their approach!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our company culture and values!
How to prepare for a job interview at Downing
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in Python and SQL, as these are crucial for the Senior Data Engineer role. Brush up on your ETL pipeline knowledge and be ready to discuss your past projects where you've built or maintained these pipelines.
✨Understand the Business Context
Since this role involves engaging with stakeholders, it’s important to understand Downing's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their investment strategies and how data plays a role in their decision-making process. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you’re aligned with their goals.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask you to solve real-world problems or design solutions on the spot. Practice articulating your thought process clearly, especially when discussing how you would approach feature specifications or data architecture decisions.
✨Showcase Your Mentoring Skills
As a senior member of the team, you’ll likely be expected to guide less experienced colleagues. Be prepared to share examples of how you’ve mentored others in the past, and discuss your approach to fostering a collaborative team environment.
