At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of data pipelines and machine learning models in a dynamic eCommerce environment.
- Company: Join NEXT, a leading FTSE-100 retail company with a global presence and innovative tech culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive salary, generous holiday, and exclusive staff discounts.
- Other info: Work from our inspiring Leicestershire office with access to great facilities and support networks.
- Why this job: Be part of a fast-paced team that values growth, creativity, and impactful work in tech.
- Qualifications: Strong Python, Spark, SQL skills; experience with ML frameworks and data engineering required.
The predicted salary is between 64000 - 79000 £ per year.
Lead Data Engineer - MLOps
We are looking for a Lead Data Engineer to join our eCommerce Data team at NEXT, based at the Head Office in Leicestershire. The role offers a competitive salary of £64,000–£79,000 along with a comprehensive benefits package.
Senior level: Mid‑Senior level. Employment type: Full‑time. Job function: Information Technology. Industry: Retail.
About the Role
As an ML Ops Data Engineer within the eCommerce Data team, your responsibilities include building and maintaining robust data pipelines, and deploying machine learning models into production. You will collaborate closely with data scientists, software engineers, and IT teams to ensure seamless integration and ongoing operation of data and ML systems.
Responsibilities
- Design, develop, and maintain scalable data pipelines and ETL processes.
- Ensure data quality, integrity, and security across all platforms.
- Collaborate with data scientists to understand and satisfy data requirements.
- Manage and optimise databases and data warehouses for performance and scalability.
- Develop algorithms and models to solve specific problems, and train/fine‑tune models using large datasets.
- Implement machine learning pipelines and workflows, and optimise models for performance and scalability.
- Translate prototypes into production‑ready solutions, and monitor and maintain deployed models.
- Adopt best practices in CI/CD for machine learning.
Qualifications
- Strong knowledge of Python, Spark, and SQL; experience with relational and NoSQL databases.
- Knowledge of data preprocessing and feature engineering.
- Advanced expertise in Spark for scaling data science models efficiently.
- Experience with ML frameworks such as MLFlow, TensorFlow, PyTorch, or Scikit‑learn.
- Understanding of CI/CD tools and practices for machine learning.
- Excellent problem‑solving skills and attention to detail.
- Effective communication skills and ability to translate business needs into technical solutions.
Benefits
- Competitive salary band £64,000–£79,000.
- Flexible working.
- Annual company performance‑based bonus.
- Sharesave scheme.
- Annual Pay Reward.
- Pension 3% Employer / 5% Employee.
- 25 days holiday plus bank holidays (buy/sell up to 3 days).
- 25% staff discount and free next‑day delivery to desk for online purchases.
- Gympass and subsidised restaurant and bar.
- Staff shops in Yorkshire and Leicestershire.
- Juice bar and coffee shop.
- Free company bus service to/from Leicester city centre.
- Onsite nursery (salary sacrifice scheme).
- Digital GP healthcare service.
- And more.
About Us
Next is a FTSE‑100 retail company employing over 35,000 people across the UK and Ireland, and is the UK’s second‑largest fashion retailer. We operate more than 500 stores and a global online presence.
We aim to support all candidates during the application process and can provide workplace adjustments when necessary. If you need support due to a disability or long‑term condition, contact headoffice_careers@next.co.uk (include “Workplace Adjustments” in the subject) or call 0116 284 2486.
Lead Data Engineer - MLOps in Leicester employer: Next
At NEXT, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration within our eCommerce Data team. Based in Leicestershire, we provide competitive salaries, flexible working arrangements, and a wealth of benefits including a sharesave scheme, generous holiday allowance, and access to onsite facilities like a nursery and gym. Join us to not only advance your career as a Lead Data Engineer but also to thrive in an environment that values your contributions and supports your professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Data Engineer - MLOps in Leicester
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific technologies mentioned in the job description, such as Python, Spark, and SQL. Being able to discuss your hands-on experience with these tools during an interview will demonstrate your suitability for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of NEXT, especially those in the eCommerce Data team. Engaging in conversations about their experiences can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to showcase your problem-solving skills by discussing past projects where you built data pipelines or deployed machine learning models. Use specific examples that highlight your ability to work collaboratively with data scientists and engineers.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest trends in MLOps and data engineering. Being knowledgeable about current best practices and tools will not only help you in interviews but also show your commitment to continuous learning in this fast-evolving field.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Data Engineer - MLOps in Leicester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in data engineering, MLOps, and the specific technologies mentioned in the job description, such as Python, Spark, and SQL. Use keywords from the job listing to ensure your application stands out.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also demonstrates your enthusiasm for the role at NEXT. Mention how your skills align with their needs and express your interest in contributing to their eCommerce Data team.
Showcase Relevant Projects:If you have worked on projects involving machine learning models or data pipelines, include these in your application. Briefly describe your role, the technologies used, and the impact of your work to illustrate your hands-on experience.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects attention to detail, which is crucial for a role that involves data integrity and quality.
How to prepare for a job interview at Next
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Make sure to highlight your strong knowledge of Python, Spark, and SQL during the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've used these technologies, especially in relation to building data pipelines or deploying machine learning models.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Abilities
Prepare examples that showcase your excellent problem-solving skills. Discuss how you've tackled complex data engineering challenges in the past, particularly those involving data quality, integrity, and security.
✨Understand the Business Context
Familiarise yourself with NEXT's eCommerce operations and how data engineering plays a role in enhancing their business. Being able to translate technical requirements into business needs will impress the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Collaboration Questions
Since the role involves working closely with data scientists and software engineers, be ready to discuss your experience in collaborative environments. Share examples of how you've successfully worked in teams to deliver data solutions.
