At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and delivery of Python microservices in a dynamic energy market.
- Company: Innovative software company transforming energy trading across Europe.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, remote work options, and a culture of innovation.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team focused on high-impact projects and career growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of energy tech while mentoring the next generation of engineers.
- Qualifications: 6+ years in software engineering with strong Python skills and leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
Our client builds software that operates at the sharp end of energy markets, trading platforms, monitoring systems, and optimisation tools running across the UK, Ireland, and Europe. The infrastructure is complex, the data volumes are serious, and the engineering standards are high. They're now looking for a Principal Python Engineer to take ownership of platform architecture and set the technical direction for the teams delivering it. This is a hands-on leadership role. You'll be shaping how systems are built, not just reviewing how others build them.
What You'll Do
- Own the design and delivery of Python microservices across AWS and on-premise environments
- Lead the architecture of large-scale data capture, processing, and transformation platforms built on event-driven principles
- Drive engineering standards across CI/CD, branching strategy, release automation, and operational excellence
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams across the UK, Ireland, and Europe on trading, monitoring, and optimisation platforms
- Mentor engineers at all levels, support graduate onboarding, and shape long-term engineering culture
The Stack
- Python, FastAPI, GraphQL (Strawberry), Kafka MSK, MQTT, REST APIs, Redshift, SQL, AWS (EC2, ECS, ECR, RDS, IoT Core, IAM, MSK), Docker, Linux, Bitbucket, CI/CD pipelines, trunk-based development.
What You'll Bring
- 6+ years of commercial software engineering experience, ideally with some client-facing delivery exposure
- Deep, production-grade Python expertise
- PCEP or PCAP certification is a bonus, not a barrier
- Proven experience designing event-driven systems, microservices, and high-throughput data platforms
- A track record of technical leadership through mentoring and guiding early-career engineers
- Sector exposure to energy markets, trading systems, or financial services is a genuine advantage
What's On Offer
- Competitive salary plus options
- Real influence over architecture, tooling, and engineering direction
- A culture built around innovation, learning, and technical craft
- High-impact exposure across multiple products and markets
Interested? Connect with Ryan Quinn on LinkedIn or send your CV for a confidential conversation.
Principal Python Engineer employer: Ocho
Our client is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises innovation and technical excellence. With a focus on employee growth, they provide opportunities for mentorship and leadership in a hands-on role, allowing you to shape the future of energy market software. The remote working options in Northern Ireland further enhance work-life balance, making it an attractive place for talented engineers seeking meaningful and impactful careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Python Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the industry, especially those who work at companies you're interested in. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that job descriptions just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio or GitHub repository showcasing your Python projects, especially those related to microservices or data platforms. This gives potential employers a taste of what you can do beyond your CV.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common technical questions and scenarios. Think about how you'd approach designing a system or solving a problem, especially in the context of energy markets or trading systems.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Python Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the job description. Highlight your Python expertise and any relevant projects you've worked on, especially those involving microservices or event-driven systems.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for the Principal Python Engineer role. Share your passion for engineering and how your leadership experience can help shape our technical direction.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Don’t just list your skills; demonstrate them! Include specific examples of how you've used Python and AWS in past projects. This will help us see your hands-on experience and problem-solving abilities.
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 makes the process smoother for everyone!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ocho
✨Know Your Tech Stack
Make sure you’re well-versed in the technologies mentioned in the job description, especially Python and AWS. Brush up on your knowledge of microservices and event-driven systems, as these will likely be key discussion points during your interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves mentoring and guiding engineers, be prepared to discuss your past experiences in leadership. Share specific examples of how you've influenced engineering culture or helped junior engineers grow in their careers.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and technical decision-making. Think about challenges you've faced in previous roles, particularly around architecture and system design, and how you overcame them.
✨Understand the Business Context
Familiarise yourself with the energy markets and trading systems relevant to the company. Showing that you understand the industry context can set you apart and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.