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- Tasks: Lead the transformation of a data platform and build innovative data products.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking company driving high-impact data transformation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a collaborative work culture.
- Other info: Opportunity to mentor and grow a high-performing team.
- Why this job: Shape the future of data architecture and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in data engineering with strong Python and SQL skills.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
Own the rebuild of a modern data platform from the ground up. We’re working with a business in the middle of a high-impact data transformation—moving away from legacy constraints towards a scalable, cloud-first architecture. They’re looking for a Principal Data Engineer to take a leading role in that journey. This isn’t a role where you inherit a polished environment. It’s an opportunity to shape, modernise, and influence—from refactoring legacy pipelines to building best-in-class data products using tools like Databricks, Azure, and GCP.
You’ll operate as the technical authority within the data function, setting standards, mentoring engineers, and working closely with both internal teams and external delivery partners.
The Role
- Transform legacy batch processes into scalable, observable data pipelines
- Build and deliver high-quality data products in line with architectural designs
- Work across modern cloud platforms including Databricks, Azure, and GCP
- Define and own the directional architecture for the Data Estate
- Lead decision-making on Databricks and Azure implementation
- Establish scalable design patterns that become engineering standards
- Line manage and grow a high-performing Data Engineering squad
- Lead hiring, onboarding, and professional development
- Set and maintain a strong technical culture and engineering discipline
Stakeholder Engagement & Mentorship
- Partner with Business Analysts to ensure data solutions deliver real value
- Mentor and support engineers through pairing and knowledge sharing
- Champion engineering excellence across the team
About You
- Degree in Computer Science, Data Science, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
- Strong experience (typically 5+ years) in data engineering roles
- Advanced skills in Python and SQL
- Hands-on experience with Databricks, Azure, and GCP/BigQuery
- Proven ability to work across both legacy systems and modern cloud environments
Key Skills
- DevOps mindset – you automate wherever possible and write clean, testable code
- Pragmatic approach – focused on delivering value without overengineering
- Strong communicator – confident engaging with stakeholders across the business
Why Apply?
- High-impact role with real ownership of platform direction
- Opportunity to modernise and shape a large-scale data estate
- Work in a collaborative, engineering-led environment
- Influence tooling, standards, and long-term strategy
Principal Data Engineer (Head of Data) in London employer: Halian | Managed Services, Recruitment Agency & Contract Staffing
Contact Detail:
Halian | Managed Services, Recruitment Agency & Contract Staffing Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Data Engineer (Head of Data) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the industry, attend meetups, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your projects, especially those involving Databricks, Azure, and GCP. This will give potential employers a taste of what you can do and how you can contribute to their data transformation journey.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and soft skills. Be ready to discuss your experience with legacy systems and modern cloud environments, and don’t forget to highlight your mentoring abilities!
✨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 and contributing to our exciting data projects.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Data Engineer (Head of Data) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Data Engineering: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for data engineering shine through! Share specific examples of how you've transformed legacy systems or built modern data products. We want to see your journey and what drives you in this field.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with Databricks, Azure, and GCP. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so align your skills with the job description to show us you’re the perfect fit!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to see your key achievements and skills. Remember, we appreciate clarity and a well-structured application!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Halian | Managed Services, Recruitment Agency & Contract Staffing
✨Know Your Tech Stack Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the tools mentioned in the job description, like Databricks, Azure, and GCP. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with these platforms and how you've used them to transform data processes.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've tackled challenges in previous roles, especially when it comes to refactoring legacy systems or building scalable data pipelines. Highlight your pragmatic approach to delivering value without overengineering.
✨Demonstrate Leadership and Mentorship
Since this role involves leading a team, be prepared to talk about your experience in mentoring engineers and fostering a strong technical culture. Share specific instances where you've helped others grow or improved team dynamics.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Communication is key! Think of examples where you've successfully partnered with business analysts or other stakeholders to ensure data solutions deliver real value. Show that you can bridge the gap between technical and non-technical teams.