At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and development of secure cloud data platforms and pipelines.
- Company: Join a friendly, ambitious team at the heart of central government.
- Benefits: Generous leave, outstanding pension, flexible working, and parental leave packages.
- Other info: Supportive environment with opportunities for growth and learning.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on government projects and drive data innovation.
- Qualifications: Strong technical leadership and data engineering experience required.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Are you looking for an exciting opportunity to join a friendly and ambitious team who are always finding new ways to drive better use of data, right in the heart of central government? If so, we’d love to hear from you!
About the Team
The NISTA Data & Insight Team brings together data scientists, engineers, analysts and digital professionals who genuinely care about learning from each other, sharing ideas and making things happen. Together we turn rich, high-value project data into analysis, insights and tools that support people across government, from project delivery teams to senior leaders in HMT, the Cabinet Office and No10, to make decisions that shape how the UK delivers its biggest and most complex projects. Working with the Government Major Projects Portfolio, the 10-year Infrastructure Pipeline and other project delivery data, your work will directly influence how major programmes are planned, delivered and improved.
Over the last two years, the team has undergone a significant transformation, digitising large-scale project data collection and overhauling our digital and data infrastructure. This enables us to create high-impact dashboards and analytics as well as drive the development of AI tools. It means we can develop and share quickly, resulting in rapid iterative development with our users. And we continue to evolve, improve our capability and develop our skills.
You’ll be joining a supportive, inclusive and collaborative environment, where you can grow your skills, tackle meaningful challenges and make a real impact on the future of government delivery.
About the Job
- Design, build and evolve secure, well‑governed cloud data platforms and pipelines that reliably support complex analytical and operational needs.
- Provide strong technical leadership to the team, including setting direction, reviewing critical code, mentoring engineers and upholding high engineering standards.
- Define and enforce standards for data engineering, pipeline development and deployment to ensure platforms are scalable, maintainable and safe to change.
- Take hands‑on ownership of the most complex or high‑risk areas of the data platform to resolve issues, improve performance and reduce operational risk. This includes being fully across potential data security risks.
- Work closely with analysts, data scientists and infrastructure colleagues to shape robust technical designs that enable high‑quality analysis and insight.
- Act as a trusted technical adviser to senior stakeholders, clearly explaining options, risks and trade‑offs relating to data infrastructure, security and compliance.
- Drive continuous improvement in data services, improving quality, resilience and user experience for users and cross‑government partners.
- Design and create accessible data engineering solutions that can be utilised and understood by the wider team of analysts and scientists.
- Build a high‑performing, motivated team by fostering a culture of learning, experimentation and professionalism, and by being an effective, supportive line manager.
About You
This role requires someone who can operate at pace across strategy and delivery, leading by example through hands on technical expertise while developing others and enabling the organisation to make effective, responsible use of modern data engineering by clearly explaining technical risks, options and trade‑offs to senior stakeholders.
Some of the Benefits our people love!
- Generous Annual Leave – 25 days (rising to 30 after 5 years), plus public holidays and the King’s birthday.
- Outstanding Pension Scheme – Defined Benefit pension with employer contributions of 28%.
- Parental Leave Packages – Including 6 months’ occupational pay for maternity/adoption, shared parental leave options.
- Flexible & Hybrid Working – Options include part-time, job-share, compressed hours, flexitime, and hybrid working (where business needs allow).
- Advance Schemes & Discounts – Rental deposit, cycle-to-work, SmartTech, season ticket loans, and access to HM Treasury’s benefits portal for a wide range of discount codes.
For more information about the role and how to apply, please follow the apply link. If you need any reasonable adjustments to take part in the selection process, please tell us about this in your online application form, or speak to the recruitment team at hrrecruitment@hmtreasury.gov.uk.
Head of Data Engineering and Infrastructure employer: HM TREASURY
Join a dynamic and inclusive team at the heart of central government, where your expertise in data engineering will directly influence major projects that shape the future of the UK. With generous annual leave, an outstanding pension scheme, and flexible working options, we prioritise employee well-being and growth, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. Here, you will have the opportunity to lead a motivated team, tackle meaningful challenges, and make a real impact on government delivery.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Data Engineering and Infrastructure
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the team and their projects. Show us you’re genuinely interested in how we turn data into insights that shape government decisions.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your technical skills! Be ready to discuss your experience with cloud data platforms and how you’ve tackled complex engineering challenges in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Data Engineering and Infrastructure
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in data engineering and infrastructure. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant projects or achievements!
Show Your Passion for Data:Let us know why you’re excited about working with data in a government setting. Share any personal projects or experiences that demonstrate your enthusiasm for turning complex data into actionable insights. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely passionate about what they do!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to explain your technical expertise and leadership experience. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised on our end!
How to prepare for a job interview at HM TREASURY
✨Know Your Data Engineering Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your data engineering knowledge, especially around cloud platforms and pipeline development. Be ready to discuss your experience with designing secure and scalable data solutions, as well as any hands-on projects you've led or contributed to.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves providing strong technical leadership, think of examples where you've mentored others or set direction for a team. Be prepared to explain how you uphold high engineering standards and foster a culture of learning and professionalism.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Familiarise yourself with the government’s major projects and how data plays a role in decision-making. Being able to articulate how your work can influence project delivery and improve outcomes will show that you’re aligned with their mission.
✨Prepare for Technical Discussions
Expect to dive deep into technical discussions about data security risks and compliance. Be ready to explain options, risks, and trade-offs clearly, as you'll need to act as a trusted adviser to senior stakeholders. Practice articulating complex ideas in a straightforward manner.
